More Alike than Different

At the National Down Syndrome Congress annual conference in Boston this past July, I was so moved when they played videos which highlighted the totally real, totally "normal" lives of four young people with Down syndrome. The NDSC posted this video on their site recently and I invite you to watch for yourself.

Although it sometimes seems challenging to be on this journey, these role models and others like them have paved a path for Lucas and the next generation of kids with DS. Because of their determination, perseverance, and spirits, we can all dream a little bigger.

Happy 1st Birthday, Roscoe!

Roscoe turned the big ONE today. He has turned into such a character and is Lucas' side kick and partner in crime...they're already on their way to causing lots of trouble. Here are a few pics from today, including Roscoe enjoying his birthday grub of buffalo chili (quite a treat since he never eats people food, except for when Lucas shares). He also has a favorite trick so check him out on the short video (last frame).

Here's Roscoe when he first joined our family as a nine week old puppy...and now as a full grown Havanese. Happy birthday, Roscoe!

Beanie's Farm

The weather in Miami today was fantastic...about 65 and sunny so we headed to a petting zoo where Lucas got to see farm animals up-close and personal. Lucas got to pet and feed the cow and goats, and pet a pig and ponies...chasing the ducks was priceless! The little turkey didn't want to ride the pony...maybe next time.

Weekend Fun

We had an active weekend which featured one of the best investments we've ever made...Lucas' first play set...he LOVES it, don't you think?! Oh yeah, if you look closely, you can see he's wearing his pajama top and hasn't even had his hair combed. Too busy having fun!

Tom and I went to the Dolphins vs. Seahawks game, and sadly, the Seahawks were defeated 19 to 21, but we had a great time just the same.

We Made History

Tonight, America voted to change the course of our nation by electing Barack Obama as 44th President of the United States of America, and effectively end the Bush reign. History was made with the election of the first African-American U.S. president who has brought so much enthusiasm and hope to the people of our nation.

We believe Obama will provide "the change we need" and help unite our country, and take our nation in a new direction both at home and overseas during the most challenging time for our country since the Great Depression. Personally, as we look to Lucas' future, it was critical that Obama articulate his position on disability, including his plan to fully fund IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) -- and he didn't disappoint.

This very long road has come to an end...and the next chapter is about to begin.

We toast to President Obama & Vice President Biden -- and to our fellow Americans as we embark together on this historic and exciting time for our country and our world!

Trick or Treat

For Lucas' first true Halloween experience, we went to Hollywood to join our friends' Susi and Adam and their girls for trick or treating fun in their neighborhood. Lucas made out like a bandit in the candy department. We also visited with our friends Cat and Jimmy and their cutie new addition, one-month-old Valentina. Earlier that day, Lucas dressed up for a Halloween party at school and we carved and decorated pumpkins. Here are photos including one with Lucas and his sidekick. Enjoy!

Bon Voyage

To celebrate Lucas' 2nd birthday and Tom's mom's belated birthday (who traveled from Seattle for a visit), we headed to the Bahamas on a 3-day cruise on the Norwegian Sky. We splurged for a suite at the front of the ship where we took advantage of breakfast on the balcony and relished the awesome views as we set sail from Miami.

We stopped in Nassau and spent the day at Atlantis where we enjoyed the pools, the water slides, and a cool aquarium -- Atlantis is very Vegas! We then headed to NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay, and although we were among the few who made it to the island, we were soon shipped back on board because of deteriorating weather, but that didn't keep us from having a great time all around! Everyone (except moi) was a first-time cruiser and I think we'll be back for more!

Lucas' Amazing Year Two

Today, we celebrated Lucas' 2nd birthday. In the blink of an eye, two years have gone by since that beautiful October day when Lucas entered our life and things have never been the same. Lucas has grown and changed so much in this short time, and every day he amazes, entertains, and inspires us. Today we had a birthday party at school where Thomas the Train cupcakes were a big hit, and tonight, we celebrated with a small group of family and friends with Cuban cake and pastelitos (pastries).

Life is good.

And now, for my yearly installment of Lucas' year in pictures (don't forget the sound). Enjoy!

Are You Excited?

Lucas now is walking everywhere, and asserting his independence at every turn. Check out his newest trick -- he had us rolling in the aisle when we first saw him do this and now he does it on command whenever he's asked "are you excited?"

Lucas on Parenting Website

In honor of Down Syndrome Awareness month in October, Parenting's website is featuring a gallery (well, there are now six galleries) of pictures of kids with Down syndrome, and Lucas made the cut. Here he is.