tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33203544118953288362024-02-02T14:43:13.334-06:00Abundantly Aiden!The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.comBlogger129125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-45919981896767919622018-02-24T11:45:00.000-06:002018-02-24T11:45:01.575-06:00Hello Old Friends....I know. It's been a really long time.<br />
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Two things this week prompted me to write this...<br />
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On Tuesday night we attended the ETHS African-American Achievement Awards where Sinobia received an award. This Award has come full-circle. Gabby, the first Aiden grandchild to attend ETHS received this award her freshman year. Sinobia, the last Aiden grandchild to attend ETHS received the award her senior year. <br />
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Tuesday night, at the awards ceremony, I saw the girl's old Middle School Principal (shout out to Mr. Mac!). He asked why he hadn't seen any recent post. I didn't really have a good excuse for him. I didn't want to tell him the truth... I've been lazy (and posting on instagram).<br />
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On Wednesday morning I attended the ETHS Black Caucus Recognition ceremony where Sinobia was recognized again. I kept looking at my watch, checking the time. I was anxious about getting to work later than I was expected. <br />
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At some point during the morning I stopped worrying about getting to work on time and realized that I was having the privilege to witness Black Excellence. This privilege should not be interrupted by the worry of a late arrival to work. This was a rare moment in the lives of our Black children as often they are not recognized for their excellence, but for their shortcomings. <br />
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So, this post is to catch you up on the Black excellence that is happening in our Aiden home. I guess it can be called our 2018 Black Excellence Update!<br />
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Here it is:<br />
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Eric started a new job. He loves commuting downtown Chicago on the train, looking at the Chicago architecture and people watching. There are no children in this work place. He is out of the school setting and feeling blessed and challenged in this new position. <br />
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Tracy (that's me) is still teaching Kindergarten. Teaching young children is what I love. This year I have traveled quite a bit for work. I love traveling, but haven't really done a lot of it without my family. The work travel has been a nice glimpse into what our empty-nester lives will be like next year. Eric and I have been talking a lot about what our live will look like when the girls are gone. It will be a bitter-sweet moment when we have no children in the house. I am looking forward to not having to pack school lunches and not worrying about feeding my kids enough fruits and vegetables every day.<br />
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Gabrielle graduated from SJSU (San Jose State University) in May with a degree in Health Sciences and Biology. She is not one to mess around with her precious time, so after traveling to Ghana to serve on her last SJSU Medical Brigade, she took a little bit of Summer time off before jumping right back into school. In December she earned her CNA certificate and went right to work using her newly acquired skills. While doing all of this, she was also preparing for the biggest adventure of her life... on Monday she leaves to serve in the Peace Corp. She will be serving for 27 months in Madagascar! We are so proud and happy for her. She gets to serve in the new community that she will be living in while also having the opportunity to travel. <br />
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Sinobia. My baby is all grown up. After spending some time this summer in Guatemala on a Service & Leadership trip, Sinobia is now a Senior! This year is flying right before my eyes as Sinobia breezed right through her college process with great poise and humility. She will be attending ASU (Arizona State University) in the Fall and is trying to get through the "senior-itis" she has had since freshman year. She finished up her swim career in the fall and will play her last season of water polo this spring. No college sports for her banged up shoulder and knee. She is so excited about college life and how she can continue to do her activist work on a larger campus. We can't wait to witness her college greatness.<br />
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The cat and dog are still with us. Both are getting old, slow and grumpy. <br />
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It's weird to think about our life as a family changing. The house will be quiet. Our grocery bills will be less. Who will we make take the dog out? We are so used to taking our children with us every where we go. We have been a crew for so long....<br />
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There it is. Short and sweet. Our Aiden Family in all of our Abundance. <br />
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Thanks for hanging in there with us.<br />
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<br />The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-27620542422554645312016-07-17T20:04:00.002-05:002016-07-17T20:45:03.268-05:00Power to the Little Sister✊🏾<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>
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We have a social activist on our hands. This is what we have taught our girls. This is how we have challenged them to live their lives...to stand up and speak out about injustices against all in this crazy world of ours. </div>
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For both Gabrielle and Sinobia it started with Eric and I urging them to speak up for themselves, some times with teachers, sometimes with friends and occasionally with us. It then moved to speaking up against things they may have witnessed that were wrong. Helping a friend stand up to a bully or a teacher. Calling someone out if they are being racist, biased or unjust. Now the time has come where it is too late for us to back away from our early teachings. Now it the time when their voices matter and we must be there to support them. </div>
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Sinobia, being the little sister, has watched big sister Gabrielle stand tall, be her own person, never follow the crowd and always do the right thing. She has donated her time and energy to caused that matter deeply to her and has joined the #blacklivesmatter movement on her campus.</div>
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So, when Sinobia revealed her plans to organize a #blacklivesmatter protest we said, "Ok". When she told us the plan was to shut down one of the major streets in Evanston, we got a little nervous, but still agreed to support her efforts. </div>
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Sinobia's first protest organizing experience was a success. She had an amazing mentor, Cicely, who guided her and helped her organize and then stepped back and let her do her thing. People showed up, it was a peaceful protest, they were successful at shutting down the street! ( #blmetown ) I believe it was beyond what she thought she was capable of. <span style="text-align: center;">We are proud. </span></div>
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<a href="http://evanstonroundtable.com/main.asp?FromHome=1&TypeID=1&ArticleID=12286&SectionID=15&SubSectionID=26">http://evanstonroundtable.com/main.asp?FromHome=1&TypeID=1&ArticleID=12286&SectionID=15&SubSectionID=26</a></div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-68083449670109297152016-06-22T21:20:00.001-05:002016-06-23T18:00:55.851-05:00“Fear does not stop death, it stops life.”<div class="MsoNormal">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This week, we lost another significant loved one in our
lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are loosing all of our elders,
our wise ones, our history keepers, the glue that has kept our families
together for so many years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Am I sad?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot be sad for those who have moved on
after suffering from pain and illness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It would be selfish of me to want them to stay with us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I grieve everyday for the loss of my dad, my
father in-law, my aunts and uncles and those who were close enough to us to be
called our family. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am pissed that time
was cut short.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am angry that my
children will not have more time with these amazing people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am annoyed with myself for the things I
should have said, had I known my time was running out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My heart feels empty on Father’s day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I miss the Zydeco dancing on Christmas and
the cornbread dressing on Thanksgiving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our vacations seem shorter with fewer aunts and uncles to visit when we
are in town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now we make one trip to the
cemetery to briefly chat with our loved ones and tell them how much we miss
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Most of all I am afraid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It scares me to live a life without such significant influences
surrounding me. These larger than life people were our safety nets, our voices
of reason, our cheerleaders throughout our lives. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It scares me that such big shoes were left to
fill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can we do this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are we ready?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Did we listen to all of the wisdom they bestowed upon us?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did we remember all of the life lessons they
taught us?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will we be able to hold our
families together with the same strength, kindness, generosity and command for
respect?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The fear has taken over. Are we now ready to step up and be the elders in our
family?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Growing up, I never played this
scenario through my mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I saw myself
with a family and children, a career, a future, but I never saw this
coming…truly growing up, truly being an adult, stepping into a family role that
was held by those I respected so much they almost seemed immortal to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I know we were raised right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know we were given the tools we now need to move forward and continue
the family legacy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know we may stumble
at first, but we will all come together for the sake of our families, to keep
us strong and to carry on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our histories
will have to be remembered, stories will have to be retold, new memories will
have to be made and family names will have to be handed down to another
generation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I don't want to disappoint. I am so very afraid.</span></span><br>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We didn’t know it when we were growing up, but we were being
groomed for this moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were bred
for this life’s work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of the lectures,
sighs, eye rolls and harsh life lessons were all for this moment…. the moment
when we look at ourselves and wonder, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Can
we go on?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Can we pick up the pieces?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Can we continue to build our family up and
support each other?” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It doesn’t seem
like we have much choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the
job that has been handed to us, from those who came before us, just like it was
handed to them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is our future, our
destiny, our calling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will keep going, we will keep living, we
will keep loving and we will keep the spirit of our loved ones forever alive in
our hearts.</span><br>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;">"If you could see your ancestors</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;">A</span></i></b><b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;">ll standing in a row,</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;">Would you be proud of them or not?...</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;"><br></span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;">But here's another question</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;">Which requires a different view</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;">If you could meet your ancestors</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;">Would they be proud of you?</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232;"><br></span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: #f1c232; font-size: x-small;">~Nellie Winslow Simmons Randall</span></i></b></div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-2230747236997643422016-01-01T00:07:00.000-06:002016-01-01T00:07:02.538-06:00Woke in 2015...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-family: Lora-Bold; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: 32pt;"><a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Woke&defid=8283309">Woke</a> </span><span style="color: cyan; font-size: x-small;">(</span></span></b></span></i><b style="color: cyan; font-family: SourceSansPro-Regular;"><i><span style="color: cyan; font-size: x-small;">Urban Dictionary)</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: SourceSansPro-Regular; font-size: 16pt;"><span style="color: cyan; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Being Woke means
being aware. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: SourceSansPro-Regular; font-size: 16pt;"><span style="color: cyan; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Knowing what’s going on in the community.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: SourceSansPro-Regular; font-size: 16pt;"><span style="color: cyan; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(Relating to Racism
and Social Injustice)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: SourceSansPro-Regular; font-size: 16pt;"><span style="color: cyan; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Person 1: Stop
bringing racism into everything <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: SourceSansPro-Regular; font-size: 16pt;"><span style="color: cyan; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Person 2: You're clearly not woke</span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2015 has come to an end. It was a great year for the Aiden family. No regrets, only humble gratefulness for our health, family, friends and amazing experiences that have helped prepare us for entering into 2016. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year was the year of getting "woke", being "woke", staying "woke" or being reawakened for our family. As I have written about before, the world is changing right before our eyes. What was our history has now become our present reality. We are constantly watching injustice, prejudice, and racism be played out in the media and even in our neighborhoods. There are constant conversations in our home about how we, as individuals and as a family can do our part to help get the world back on track towards equity, equality and justice for all.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year, in addition to taking care of our individual selves and spirits, we also tried to do our part to spread some love and peace in the world, hoping that the ripple effect of our actions will reach many that are near and far in our hearts and minds.</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Eric</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eric participated in the Million Man March in 1995. This year he returned to Washington DC for the Justice or Else Million Man March 2015 20th Anniversary.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwaNtTSD_YvBjHaZMt1fkEg-X-3jgX5e7QIWhhTz324sCpKrbUAcxjH8o4Tpi8ie9snVwgee8XChk8us096wj-wyPln21DSTYaTnO3A4_HRW0ycHO_mbBfDuKaDSWy1S192TbZZKN2-ho/s1600/IMG_5193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwaNtTSD_YvBjHaZMt1fkEg-X-3jgX5e7QIWhhTz324sCpKrbUAcxjH8o4Tpi8ie9snVwgee8XChk8us096wj-wyPln21DSTYaTnO3A4_HRW0ycHO_mbBfDuKaDSWy1S192TbZZKN2-ho/s320/IMG_5193.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<i style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>"Justice is the birthright of every human being. Justice is a prerequisite to life. </b></span></i><br />
<i style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>We cannot live without justice and where there is no justice there is no peace." </b></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eric returned home from the #JusticeOrElse Million Man March renewed, recharged and with a mission. His new mission, #BoycottChristmas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">#BoycottChristmas was a major call to action coming out of the #JusticeOrElse march, uniting blacks in a mission to boycott the lucrative Christmas retail industry and gain the attention of those who have contributed to the oppression of minorities. </span></div>
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Martin Luther King and Medgar Evers did it. </span>Both civil rights leaders used Christmas boycotts to press for Black justice. Evers led a successful boycott of 150 downtown stores in Jackson, Mississippi, in 1962. On his last day on earth Dr. Martin Luther King</span><span style="color: #676767; font-style: inherit; text-align: justify;"> </span>asked us to practice “economic withdrawal” as a strategy to gain
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, the day after Thanksgiving, #BoycottChristmas went into effect in the Aiden house. It was a house divided, as we all wanted to support Eric and the black community in this charge, but it was so very difficult for us to give up the Christmas celebration and tradition that we have had in our family for 21 years. We debated, we argued, we agreed to disagree. We gave up some things, and held onto some things. No Christmas tree, no decorations, purchases made from black merchants and a lot less money spent in the Aiden household. In the end, we were all together on Christmas morning, healthy, happy, grateful and feeling somewhat empowered by our small contribution to the movement.</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gabrielle</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gabrielle spent a lot of time during 2015 offering her humble heart to communities in need. She became woke to the economic inequities and lack of health care of so people in different regions of the world. She spent some time in Nicaragua with the SJSU Medical Brigade bringing medical and dental care to residents in underdeveloped small villages. Gabrielle was nominated to serve as the secretary of the SJSU Global Brigade Board for the 2015-2016 school year. She will return to Nicaragua with the Brigade this summer to assist in the administering of more medical and dental care that is greatly needed in the villages that they will serve.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She then traveled to Tanzania to complete a medical volunteer internship in the Iringa hospital. In Tanzania, Gabrielle had the opportunity to experience medical rotations in a variety of hospital units (pediatrics, labor & delivery and ER) and provide (shadow) medical care to patients in yet, another underdeveloped area in the world. It was in Tanzania that she was able to confirm her notion that a career in medicine was the path she would take in her future. Gabby was also able to make connections with patients, doctors and other medical volunteers from around the world.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While back in California, Gabrielle participated in a variety of protests and marches in response to the many acts of violence, hatred and prejudice that were being inflicted upon blacks and other minorities around our country. Though the SJSU BSU (Black Student Union) and other organizations, she too was able to proudly represent her black culture.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Sinobia</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sinobia. What do we say about Sinobia.... This is our #Powertothepeople leader! Sinobia has embraced her blackness this year. She has become a proud black woman that works hard to protect the integrity, beauty, strength and culture of her black people. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One way Sinobia has begun to bring awareness of black culture to her friends and community is through her "Black Friday" posts on her instagram and Facebook spaces. Sinobia has been using her writing skills to address issues that many people don't want to talk about or avoid conversations about. Many of these posts have sparked some great debates and dialogue. The second week of school, Sinobia began searching for ways to enhance the Black History Month celebrations at ETHS. Through her inquiry, she was given the duties of assisting in the coordinating many of the Black History Month celebrations that will happen at her school this year. She participated in the Black Girls Summit at ETHS this fall and joined the #blacklivesmatter movement through her attendance at the #blacklivesmatter meetings in Evanston. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sinobia rounded out the 2015 year by doing the black girl "woke" big-chop. She cut off all of her chemically treated hair and went natural (with some pink hair dye). Towards the end of the year, she also found herself participating in a sit-in at an Evanston District 65 Board meeting. Parents, students, teachers and community members gathered at the District65 building in response to the PARCC test results that were released in December. The test results showed that the historical achievement gap between black, Hispanic and white students is still growing in our Evanston schools. At the end of the meetings community comment hour, Sinobia stood up to be the last speaker of the evening. She gave a brave and honest speech about her positive experience in District 65, but also charged those on the Board to think about how they can assist in helping schools and teachers build relationships with parents and students so that they can feel as if they are welcomed, understood and valued in their schools and in their classrooms.</span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tracy</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tracy has spent the past year becoming unapologetic about her blackness, her boldness and her sassiness. At work, in the community, and amongst her friends, she has decided that she is who she is...take it or leave it. During this process of discovery and transformation, Tracy has taken on some difficult challenges, confrontations and conversations with her peers and colleagues. It started with a Trayvon Martin t-shirt, a #nopeacenojustice t-shirt, a #blacklivesmatter t-shirt and then the posting of a #blacklivesmatter sign in her classroom. Some Allies were made, some lost, but in the end everyone pretty much knows where she stands when it comes to being a black woman in America (and in Evanston & Wilmette).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For the past few years, Tracy has worked on developing a curriculum for her kindergarten classroom that teaches about peace, justice, equity and diversity. This curriculum is based on teaching children about these concepts throughout the entire school year and not just for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Through honest conversations, the exploration of the Civil Rights Movement era, learning about peace makers and game changers in history and discovering past and present injustices in our world, the children in her classroom are empowered with knowledge that will allow them enter into the world as informed peacemakers of the future. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year, Tracy wrote a proposal to present her classroom work and curriculum at the 2015 POCC conference in Tampa, FL. Her proposal was accepted and she successfully presented her work to a room filled with enthusiastic educators. This was her first presentation experience in her teaching career and it proved to be a positive experience as she received much positive feedback from attendees of her presentation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We appreciate all of our family and friends, allies and colleagues that have supported us through this magnificent year of discovery, empowerment, and cultural appreciation. Next year we will continue to work towards educating not only ourselves but others who are willing to be WOKE....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Happy 2016 from The Aiden Family!</b></span></div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-51463842330794104532015-12-29T20:43:00.000-06:002015-12-29T20:43:02.762-06:0021<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yes, I cried today. </div>
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My baby, Gabrielle Ollie Aiden, turned 21 today. I still remember the day I found out I was pregnant with her. Eric was both nervous and excited. My mom was ecstatic. Eric's mom said, "I'll believe it when I see it." 21 years ago, Eric and I became parents. </div>
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I would like to say that we did an amazing job raising a confident, independent, strong and humble young woman. I would like to take all of the credit for all of the prideful moments and accomplishments. The reality is, we did not do it alone. Since the day Gabby was born, there has been a circle of family and friends that have helped us nurture and support her. </div>
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Thank you to all of our family and friends who have contributed to the growth and loving nurturing of our baby girl. Thank you for always supporting her, encouraging her and cheering her on. Thank you for attending all the gymnastic meets, plays, circus shows and graduations. Thank you for being amazing role models and mentors. Thank you for taking this journey with us for the last 21 years. Thank you for loving our Gabby just as much as we do.</div>
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Today I cried because I remember the little baby that would fall asleep on her dads chest every night. I remember the baby that smiled at everyone she met. I remember the baby that learned to walk at 8 months and wobbled her way through the house. I remember the baby that grew up to go to kindergarten and was brave enough not to cry on the first day of school (although I did). I remember the the baby that graduated from high school and left home to go to college (more tears from me). I remember the baby that traveled to Africa and stayed away from home for a whole year. </div>
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That baby I remember is now a grown woman, an adult, legal.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Happy 21st Birthday Gabby!</b></span></div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-55683471613446033782015-10-17T22:15:00.002-05:002015-10-18T20:29:53.577-05:00Million Man March 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: #444444; color: white;"><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">It wasn't much...just an epic road trip with a few of the guys. 20 years ago, Eric traveled to Washington, D.C. for the first Million Man March. This weekend he returned to Washington, D.C. to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the March. Not much huh? It was enough to make us all envious and proud.</span><br style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">With our nation filled with racial tension and unrest and the majority of our conversations in our home are centered around race, white privilege, and racial injustices, this return journey for Eric was an important moment in all our lives. Our girls are proud to say that their dad thought it was important to be there. I am proud of Eric for taking the time to unite with other black men and stand for the many causes that have come to the forefront of our lives... #justiceorelse #blacklivesmatter #sayhername #icantbreathe #handsupdontshoot</span></span><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOk78j37QnATdWeWhB3rUzUpNgpU-fKViXmH4hl0SJZFK3RI5VbzCIZxaUkG1-hrFwe7Zbq3zDZnc26EY5mKkZRj6gXiVkRsLQ6M7C65GnBi0H3Fbqn2qohJxy6MNK654IIh2mB895sU/s1600/IMG_5192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #444444; color: white;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguOk78j37QnATdWeWhB3rUzUpNgpU-fKViXmH4hl0SJZFK3RI5VbzCIZxaUkG1-hrFwe7Zbq3zDZnc26EY5mKkZRj6gXiVkRsLQ6M7C65GnBi0H3Fbqn2qohJxy6MNK654IIh2mB895sU/s400/IMG_5192.JPG" width="400"></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: #444444; color: white;"><br><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We really wanted to join Eric on this trip, but understood that this was more than just a trip, it was about standing up and standing together as black men. We wanted to experience the love, pride and unity of being amongst thousands of our people, but know that we would have been in the way.</span></span><br>
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<span style="background-color: #444444; color: white;"><br style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">It is important for all of us to pause, take a moment and remember that we as black people are not alone. We did not get to where we are now in our lives alone. Together we are strong, we are mighty and we are beautiful. We must remember to reflect on this often, especially in an America that does not show its love, appreciation and respect for black lives. Eric, put life on pause this weekend to remember this and march for what is right. #justiceorelse.</span><br style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Hopefully our girls will continue to be social advocates, educate those who are ignorant to racist comments and behaviors and set the record straight with those who believe our lives do not matter and are not worth fighting for. Eric inspires them on a daily basis to be the a voice for themselves and others. He challenges them to speak up and step up and make some noise and some changes around them. His Million Man March trek has refueled us, inspired us and given us new energy to keep moving forward on our own journeys as proud, strong, smart, beautiful black women in America.</span></span><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0vLMUs_JrROLHOG7IV_rYHzwBZS6HjhrJIGsGUJrFxFVw-plnENYAxDJ4LSWUZTUqJl4Max83U64gdMVCQ_OQOhD6FCeNyoODXvOSYqttH6KirheB3gdSrCY062GYU2XOfuH0gmLLHo/s1600/IMG_5190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #444444; color: white;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0vLMUs_JrROLHOG7IV_rYHzwBZS6HjhrJIGsGUJrFxFVw-plnENYAxDJ4LSWUZTUqJl4Max83U64gdMVCQ_OQOhD6FCeNyoODXvOSYqttH6KirheB3gdSrCY062GYU2XOfuH0gmLLHo/s320/IMG_5190.JPG" width="320"></span></a></div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-44628195299077300042015-06-24T19:01:00.000-05:002015-06-24T19:01:11.435-05:00Nicaragua "Thank You".<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm not on Facebook, but many of you are. As promised, Gabby has posted a "thank you" to everyone who helped in her fundraising efforts for her Medical Brigade trip to Nicaragua. She has also posted over 200 photos from her trip. <br />
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Since Gabby's has returned from Nicaragua, Her dad paid her a visit on Father's Day and hung around to help her get settled into her new apartment. Tomorrow he will drop her off at the airport as she leaves for another adventure on her GapMedics volunteer trip to Tanzania.<br />
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Stay tuned for Tanzania updates and photos and thank you again!<br />
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<br />The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-16135167690371074362015-06-10T18:23:00.001-05:002015-06-10T18:29:18.832-05:00SJSU Nicaragua Medical Brigade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There was a text saying, "We made it." and then 10 days of silence. Not a word from Gabby on her Nicaragua Medical Brigade trip. She had already informed me that "No news, was good news." but I still wanted to hear from her. <br />
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Then a few days ago I got another text, "Made it back to San Jose." She was home. Safe and sound.<br />
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Thank you to everyone who made this Medical Brigade trip possible. Thank you for all of your donations and words of encouragement. We are so grateful for it all. <br />
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If you know Gabby, you know that she doesn't really get super excited about stuff (or at least she doesn't show it). So, when I spoke with her after her return from the Medical Brigade and she told me that it was a "LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE!" I knew that it was an amazing trip. <br />
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I won't go into detail, because Gabby will want to do that herself on Facebook, to also thank everyone, but I will share with you that your donations allowed for this Medical Brigade to serve over 1,000 people during their visit. Cement foundations were laid for houses, landscaping was done, medical and dental treatment were provided, new friends were formed and memories were made. <br />
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It has always been a wish of ours to have our children experience life in other countries, to give and to serve, and to return home even more grateful and humble than they were before they left. I think this trip accomplished all of that and even more. It's hard for me not to gush about it, but you'll be hearing all about it from Gabby soon.<br />
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Thank you!</div>
The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-72954133096691888052015-05-10T12:02:00.001-05:002015-05-10T12:02:56.844-05:00Mother's Day 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is the day (I use the whole weekend) that I totally take advantage of my mom status. I expect the royal treatment. I expect to get out of all of my carpooling, house cleaning, dog walking duties. I expect for my family to sing my praises and celebrate the fact they they are lucky to have me in their lives. </div>
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What I didn't expect this year, was the fact that I would be spending a great deal of time thinking about my journey as a mother. I have always prided myself on raising strong, independent, smart and sassy black girls. It has always been my goal to send my girls out into the world and know in my heart that they would be OK out there without me by their side. I have taught them to be fierce, driven, kind, nurturing and to speak up for what they believe. I have told them on many occasions that they are to strive to be black women that stand out in the crowd, Black women that take people by surprise with their resiliency and knowledge, Black women that stand up and speak up for what they believe and what is right in the world.</div>
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Over the past year, I have been questioning if my teachings are the right ones for this world we are living in. Is it safe for me to teach my black girls these things? We have sat as a family and watched the world as we know it, crumble in front of our eyes. My girls have begun to witness events that feel familiar to them as things they have read about in their history books and that we have taught them about. The idea of them as black women possessing civil rights is being questioned at our dinner table and the understanding of all the "stories" and "lectures" on racism that we have given them over the years is beginning to ring true. They are watching history repeat itself on many channels on TV and in social media. They are taking part in the re-enactment of history as they protest, march, observe moments of silence, debate and write about the injustices being displayed in front of them. Familiar names of those gunned down stay a constant in our family conversations. Tamir Rice, Oscar Grant, Eric Garner, Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Rekia Boyd, Freddie Gray (and many more) are all names that frequent our conversations and drive my girls to speak out more, do more and make more of a difference amongst their classmates friends and in their communities. </div>
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So, of course I should expect nothing less of them then to speak up, protest, question, debate and stand up for their rights and the rights of others. This is what they have been taught right? But at this time in our world, I am wondering if our teachings will keep them safe. Yes, we also taught common sense, restraint and advocacy skills, but will these additional skills really matter in a world that is becoming so angry and divided?</div>
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I am torn. I want my girls to continue to go out into the world and strong black women. I want them to protest, shout and stand their ground. I want them to feel pride in their actions and the black women they are becoming. But, I also want them to be safe. I want them to feel confident that all that I have been teaching them will lead them to the lives they wish for. I want them to flourish and stay resilient. I want them to continue to be proud of being black women and not afraid of this beautiful gift. </div>
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Most of all, I want them to know that I am always and forever proud of them and the women they have become. Whether silent or loud protesters, compassionate or hard-core thinkers or advocates for the fallen and neglected people in the world, I will always have their backs, support them and lift them up. </div>
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Happy Mother's Day.</div>
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<br />The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-81102723901706801252015-03-09T18:13:00.002-05:002015-03-09T18:13:17.093-05:00Hello There<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hello There!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, what should I say? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Merry Christmas!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Happy 20<sup>th</sup> Birthday Gabby!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Happy New Year!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yep, it’s been a while since my last post.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are times I feel like we Aiden’s
totally got it going on and then times I feel like there’s not much going on at
all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Someone asked me why I hadn’t
posted anything in a while, I told them because our lives were not really all that
exciting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In some ways that’s a good
thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I still feel busy and often times
overwhelmed by “stuff” but most of the time these days, I feel settled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel as if our lives are in a good rhythm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The holidays were crazy busy as usual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was our first holiday season without
grampa Aiden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was the lingering
sense of loss and sadness but also the great sense of love, pride and family
bonding that occurred that kept us all afloat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gabby turned 20!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
can’t really wrap my brain around how I have raised a child to be 20 years old.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She has turned out to be an amazing
young woman with a serious vision for the direction in which she wants her life
to go and the Drummer-Aiden heart and drive to get her there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She returned to school in 2015 ready to take
on whatever the new year has in store for her and to plan a few adventures
herself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sinobia finished her freshman year swim season, enjoyed the
holidays (and a few concerts) and is now in the beginning of water polo season
at ETHS.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everyday when I drop her off
and pick her up from practice I chuckle at the memory of how I had never predicted
that she would be the two-sport athlete in our family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I always pictured her as a drama/theatre
student.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although she is full of drama,
the theatre has not been lucky enough to have her yet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eric is working on his knee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He has had a great recovery with no complications.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is looking forward to getting back to his
work-out routine and testing the limits of his healed knee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The girls and I have decided that he should
retire from basketball.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think he
agrees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A big part of Eric’s daddy role
these days is to worry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is so protective
of his girls and is always worrying about them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I guess this is a good balance in parenting, since I am more of the “let
them go experience life” kind of mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
long as they are making good choices and being safe, I’m all for it most
often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eric helps me look at the “other
side of things” when it comes to parenting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been up to the usual…working, carpooling and nagging
my family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took a trip by myself to
surprise my mommy in February and allowed myself to sleep late, rest and relax
for a few days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have also decided
(once again) that I need to start taking care of myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I have started exercising a little
bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I absolutely hate it!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like to see instant results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want to see the six-pack the tight thighs
in one week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I really don’t want to work
that hard for the body I dream of having.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m going slowly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m trying.
Spring is just 10 days away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The big
sweaters and coats will come off soon. Ugh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After 46 years of not exercising, this may be the year for me (but, I
think I say this every year).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will try to post more often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I often wake up in the middle of the night
with cute and witty thoughts to write about, but soon forget when I fall back
to sleep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe I’ll try keeping paper
and a pencil by my bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmmm…maybe not.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtj1BQ3LA1P_CI8RbTmtiF4-3lPF4yCBjEZTJxdkhYCOEIyEhKFBoQakO9q06ORXJEzXgUQC1anK6ffuPVVWn3EK4XsERVlFc4ZXwAR-q2-53a4uHrZdEhX1cp5XTbpE8YpBtEMImfHFw/s1600/positive-thoughts-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtj1BQ3LA1P_CI8RbTmtiF4-3lPF4yCBjEZTJxdkhYCOEIyEhKFBoQakO9q06ORXJEzXgUQC1anK6ffuPVVWn3EK4XsERVlFc4ZXwAR-q2-53a4uHrZdEhX1cp5XTbpE8YpBtEMImfHFw/s1600/positive-thoughts-3.jpg" height="400" width="368" /></a></div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-37568366245798280522014-12-14T00:28:00.002-06:002014-12-14T00:28:59.418-06:00What Makes You Strong.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimE-RTo5QpQNDEUIB3rUfsRtuST0TK-CEF4Z183rNJivkx95BQl5BQ3l_Ak_8WR9S0RNMFG1s82Ryrc7oEmT_dB0ytBmry1zqYU3jmVOy3oAZ7tvPpT2O6i-kHo5nnA9rkSpygWKG0GtE/s1600/83cbf580dbedb2321bc43fad94b282d6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimE-RTo5QpQNDEUIB3rUfsRtuST0TK-CEF4Z183rNJivkx95BQl5BQ3l_Ak_8WR9S0RNMFG1s82Ryrc7oEmT_dB0ytBmry1zqYU3jmVOy3oAZ7tvPpT2O6i-kHo5nnA9rkSpygWKG0GtE/s1600/83cbf580dbedb2321bc43fad94b282d6.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The loss of a loved one is so profound.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are a million ways in which one can
cope with the loss and grief of this event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some people grieve silently, some out loud. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some keep busy and others seek out comfort
from their loved ones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Grief can look like
many different things and take over at any time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember being in Potbellys when the wave
of grief for my dad hit me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The musician
that was playing in the window started playing a Beetles song.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remembered my dad playing that song on his
record player.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ran out of the
restaurant sobbing as the tears flowed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been raised to be the strong one, the get things done
girl, the rock, the pull my big-girl pants up girl, the stand tall and be the
last man standing girl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is my role,
my ethic in all that I do, even how I grieve. This is also my curse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In my mind, I am the one that takes care of everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m the mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m the wife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m the fierce
protector of my family that my parents raised me to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am the strong face that lets everyone know
that everything is going to be OK. The problem is, I neglect to take care of
myself while taking care of others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have not allowed myself to grieve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have not taken care of myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to
learn how to do this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s hard to
unlearn habits you have carried with you all of your life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today I surrendered.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After being sick for almost 3 weeks and having a headache
for a whole week, today I took myself to the doctor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Apparently, I have been walking around with a
sinus infection and some nasty “school virus” for some time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Later in the morning, I cried about spilling my coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tears just spilled out of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tears flowed down my face just as easily
as the coffee flowed over the kitchen counter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Both the coffee and myself were a big mess.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The truth is, those tears were not about the coffee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That was my moment of vulnerability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My moment to let the grief I have been
feeling spill out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I miss my dad and I
miss Eric’s dad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I grieve for the fact
that I don’t have a dad with me anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I grieve for Eric, because now he knows this feeling of loss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I grieve for my girl’s loss as they believe
that their grandfathers were the two of the most influential people in their
lives and now they are gone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I blamed my tears on the coffee mess and the fact that I was
not feeling well. There was a moment of confusion on Eric’s face, as I sobbed
in his arms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The poor guy probably
thought I had either over-dosed on antibiotics, was having a serious menopausal
meltdown or I had not caffeinated myself early enough in the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I tried to shake it off and compose
myself, I knew that he knew what was really wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He gave me space, let me cry and then allowed
me to pull myself together again and emerge from the room composed and strong
again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The weird thing is, I felt so much better after I cried. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My headache went away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My cough subsided a little bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think I needed to cleanse myself of the
feeling I was holding onto in order to protect the ones I love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think now I know I need to protect myself
too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I will wake up tomorrow and probably go back to my same old
habits, but I have learned a lesson in this day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being vulnerable makes you strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being resilient makes you strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being loved by those that go before you makes
you strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Holding on to their precious
memories makes you strong. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having love
in your life and giving love makes you strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Shedding tears makes you strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>At the end of this day, I am stronger than I was when I woke up this
morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will stay strong.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-10955719032413662842014-11-20T19:30:00.001-06:002014-11-20T19:30:45.015-06:00Back to Normal?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh1TYRoT1sq8cpKm__VA8Yv3RwEPybiZaq9Rv1Jj8m-8pGuR55njezouaDaIWhiw1RFbY0y98AZckUu_FsmUrJAsEs_WNxyb8UfBy6R-2FZZYtpdxLC1npVqrvwPPE-incl-ZNEhVChNk/s1600/photo-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh1TYRoT1sq8cpKm__VA8Yv3RwEPybiZaq9Rv1Jj8m-8pGuR55njezouaDaIWhiw1RFbY0y98AZckUu_FsmUrJAsEs_WNxyb8UfBy6R-2FZZYtpdxLC1npVqrvwPPE-incl-ZNEhVChNk/s1600/photo-9.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All of the house-guests have left. All the sheets and towels
have been washed and put away.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
house is quiet again.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are beginning
to return to our regular routines.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our
lives are back to normal.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAv2KwO-CVuI62xeYYDqakDDBeZ50hTwlxSp1i9hhd-XrhM9aXKRd3gOKeXcNLO3U4zknTY3hDpfY6rDF-42qcOToN42Si93qTAzoLRqHQLZPmS6qLVF_xlkMMl026uK5U-pT7cWp_tY/s1600/DSC_0293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAv2KwO-CVuI62xeYYDqakDDBeZ50hTwlxSp1i9hhd-XrhM9aXKRd3gOKeXcNLO3U4zknTY3hDpfY6rDF-42qcOToN42Si93qTAzoLRqHQLZPmS6qLVF_xlkMMl026uK5U-pT7cWp_tY/s1600/DSC_0293.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The only thing is, we can never go back to normal. Our lives
have all been changed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have lost a
loved one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Raymond Richard Aiden…a
father, a grandpa, a father-in-law, a friend. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His
presence in our world was not normal, it forever changed each one of us for the
better.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYJYJJRfQ_1Trbo0WYAnsfUXPBTZjQLRcf2tlxu8GzimfOAA5aj-Yp6eQr3ReB_n0ipmAC5J0mM0mow0cv8bqqSgT525aUQ-dO2YnEXFAcsOtdLp8J8fWnIcwl30GHxfIzSxPJDzXiUY/s1600/photo-8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYJYJJRfQ_1Trbo0WYAnsfUXPBTZjQLRcf2tlxu8GzimfOAA5aj-Yp6eQr3ReB_n0ipmAC5J0mM0mow0cv8bqqSgT525aUQ-dO2YnEXFAcsOtdLp8J8fWnIcwl30GHxfIzSxPJDzXiUY/s1600/photo-8.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Death is normal, but this does not feel normal to me.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It feels wrong.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel cheated.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel as if my family has been cheated.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The world has been cheated of time with this
amazing man.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwrd1PgfgDH2ZmmCyx0x4207RVE9ko8m25vip3tTRELPGdsAC9tKm-la3o76GVfHca1s50RcTwnBSLUhTg52XpjD3glTYBags1Q5sLOI8d-inN6dNxnNxXxbsGz8Os_b0utCRRwzpN9DU/s1600/100_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwrd1PgfgDH2ZmmCyx0x4207RVE9ko8m25vip3tTRELPGdsAC9tKm-la3o76GVfHca1s50RcTwnBSLUhTg52XpjD3glTYBags1Q5sLOI8d-inN6dNxnNxXxbsGz8Os_b0utCRRwzpN9DU/s1600/100_0009.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There was not a single moment from the time that Eric and I
first started dating that Gramps (aka Raymond Richard) didn’t make me feel as
if I were a part of the Aiden family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
wasn’t normal to feel so at ease with a family, but it was easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtBYI-8uWe2dJ5f4QzCtyP6frMezCtrmI_u8Sjf_4OK6LhMu7C0GXTYLZ2LQ3xKDt7C5iIAy5pT1kzLUBFfgBA4sS0q2fDfNqKUztOFBBLfJEpulLrk1Ik8KgRiBPaKA7H0tjJqzMmsY/s1600/100_2428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtBYI-8uWe2dJ5f4QzCtyP6frMezCtrmI_u8Sjf_4OK6LhMu7C0GXTYLZ2LQ3xKDt7C5iIAy5pT1kzLUBFfgBA4sS0q2fDfNqKUztOFBBLfJEpulLrk1Ik8KgRiBPaKA7H0tjJqzMmsY/s1600/100_2428.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He always had a smile, a laugh and a hug to give, even when
you knew he wasn’t feeling well.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s
not normal to be so happy all of the time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlSx83GMl3oiWajbRMer6g8wja4Vaq_Uo812lsDuCL-Nfqqx284k6-H85Fpw7-AL1OjLKkDVoarXHdlVXjVqpH8yY96_z0CYFtB2sNY5R0bXEqDVnaOAvIhqH7c-zSKTY7oXvx1ZoUBio/s1600/106_3879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlSx83GMl3oiWajbRMer6g8wja4Vaq_Uo812lsDuCL-Nfqqx284k6-H85Fpw7-AL1OjLKkDVoarXHdlVXjVqpH8yY96_z0CYFtB2sNY5R0bXEqDVnaOAvIhqH7c-zSKTY7oXvx1ZoUBio/s1600/106_3879.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When my father died 6 years ago, Gramps became my father-figure,
the man I knew would take care of me as if I were his own daughter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It felt normal. It felt good to know that I did have a “dad”
by my side.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFxttPNcLm1IXOuhtdvxudrJjUyFOimtEhHs6ljTx3SBSQQPsxQkXjdH3t29MVhm67iSzH6nmZuPgff6tlTqrLiVCi5el00dFfpd-DuygfltdDGwaT59lCetdy7x4qRCikq8EB_CRbtdo/s1600/IMG_0775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFxttPNcLm1IXOuhtdvxudrJjUyFOimtEhHs6ljTx3SBSQQPsxQkXjdH3t29MVhm67iSzH6nmZuPgff6tlTqrLiVCi5el00dFfpd-DuygfltdDGwaT59lCetdy7x4qRCikq8EB_CRbtdo/s1600/IMG_0775.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the 22 years of being with Eric, Gramps only got mad at
me once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How could this be?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not normal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He called me to talk it out and then it was over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I, on the other had, found myself being
perfectly normal and got mad at him a few times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How do you go on as if everything in back to “normal” when
something so tragic has happened?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
someone so significant in your life and the lives of those around you is gone,
how does that feel normal? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We have to find our new “normal” now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What will that look like?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right now we are all struggling to find our
way, to find a new way that will be different and feel different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of this process will be normal…we will
grieve, remember, cry and laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will
be angry and question why we lost our loved one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will reflect on our last words, actions
and things we may have taken for granted when we thought we had more time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of this is normal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What will be different is the fact that we will all rise
from this as a stronger family, a more appreciative family, an extraordinary
family, not a normal family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is how
we will remember our Extraordinary Gramps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgikbB9qP5OdJtn7x22BWY2VJSVisLKKOHbyvl6SoE62_9cfVFkAep04bX1sROgNczWm9Vy2-4aRBzMZN6U6WtBwg3tjuCuTCyEK-lH5szkiZlU4nKbN9HMMNSArxwCDbc1a3uSr84tuAI/s1600/DSC_1273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgikbB9qP5OdJtn7x22BWY2VJSVisLKKOHbyvl6SoE62_9cfVFkAep04bX1sROgNczWm9Vy2-4aRBzMZN6U6WtBwg3tjuCuTCyEK-lH5szkiZlU4nKbN9HMMNSArxwCDbc1a3uSr84tuAI/s1600/DSC_1273.JPG" height="288" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-24927079636762998372014-08-20T19:59:00.003-05:002014-08-20T19:59:50.939-05:00I'm Going Back To Cali.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMqGBW0HATLA74JWtdGI76ZnK3CHdwfGWa689Dt8AukzYgtzfhqTJND2j8FDg3bAXW_VS59_i1ClYlswJb3UsZJps9QU8khWXxnzJ9auV-MgktMQl2HxAG2ZGqCgD8ZRSkdd7uV4DHZ8/s1600/photo+3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMqGBW0HATLA74JWtdGI76ZnK3CHdwfGWa689Dt8AukzYgtzfhqTJND2j8FDg3bAXW_VS59_i1ClYlswJb3UsZJps9QU8khWXxnzJ9auV-MgktMQl2HxAG2ZGqCgD8ZRSkdd7uV4DHZ8/s1600/photo+3.PNG" height="400" width="277" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Gabby is back in California now. She is safe and sound and all settled into
her new apartment. I got to deliver her
this year, as Eric is recovering from his surgery. I also instagramed the journey:)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There was a lot of work to be done in the
move-in process but also some time for a little fun. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi94JPkknDwdozIRDCJKGzZudXJO8NK4_UeGRSYqgWuLJsXOSgf_I00c8JqTpYT12K08X4sX9xcr88f_srpC5H-anWRSzjIzNnj-sdgwg2hKbKGsF4Dgi6yLrqZ7CxgEkEgPZp6gxwmIZg/s1600/photo+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi94JPkknDwdozIRDCJKGzZudXJO8NK4_UeGRSYqgWuLJsXOSgf_I00c8JqTpYT12K08X4sX9xcr88f_srpC5H-anWRSzjIzNnj-sdgwg2hKbKGsF4Dgi6yLrqZ7CxgEkEgPZp6gxwmIZg/s1600/photo+1.PNG" height="320" width="227" /></a></div>
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We did some marathon shopping, moving, unpacking and putting stuff together on Saturday and Sunday which allow for us to have the whole day on Monday for some California adventures!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzioP1N57jats9XNTeh4j1dxZIj4pc5Hk1WAqpFi0nmxI5DGTVkBvnxKBxM4DQLaH_p_ZnzCeJKFxMj4gqp3Ag4oCPPHkmqSdXvrhnMvxnQY7fXsFdXPTx5J-h56VXxRZ2xY4DY9E71jQ/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzioP1N57jats9XNTeh4j1dxZIj4pc5Hk1WAqpFi0nmxI5DGTVkBvnxKBxM4DQLaH_p_ZnzCeJKFxMj4gqp3Ag4oCPPHkmqSdXvrhnMvxnQY7fXsFdXPTx5J-h56VXxRZ2xY4DY9E71jQ/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Geh2UomCgBwB2JeH7Pio5qeKYH10X0RheE7KWJRdcl3xK9g4VlVJlebT3f8kXbWQGooZXoSWDo3CLguTJdLMNblc16kV0thFCbR1WLtpdphqDex2lPtAb9qwI_HBf4gvJReeDS7onKQ/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Geh2UomCgBwB2JeH7Pio5qeKYH10X0RheE7KWJRdcl3xK9g4VlVJlebT3f8kXbWQGooZXoSWDo3CLguTJdLMNblc16kV0thFCbR1WLtpdphqDex2lPtAb9qwI_HBf4gvJReeDS7onKQ/s1600/photo+2.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was nice to get away for a few days, away
from home, away from Evanston and be in the California life. I see how people can so easily fall in love
with the state….great weather, adventures in almost every city and just a
different way of life.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFfFdUqwt82jXC7P8IDTaB1IhugRF0cSOhuTctVe38S-A1MWhJ0dmG4L8rMTI-ddYO-vVBzt_aiK3nFQW8Gwq8JeAF2DxoK5IAsJwWChtx1J3mP632e0l_Y5H8w_AHnrJuJMhZeJTTcc/s1600/photo+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFfFdUqwt82jXC7P8IDTaB1IhugRF0cSOhuTctVe38S-A1MWhJ0dmG4L8rMTI-ddYO-vVBzt_aiK3nFQW8Gwq8JeAF2DxoK5IAsJwWChtx1J3mP632e0l_Y5H8w_AHnrJuJMhZeJTTcc/s1600/photo+2.PNG" height="320" width="219" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> </o:p>It was hard to leave my girl behind, but not nearly as bad
as last year. This year, I left her with
a great crew of friends and a lovely collection of roommates by her side. This year I know that she will be OK. I think she was actually looking forward to
going back to school; I guess that’s a good thing. It was nice to have her home for the
summer, but also satisfying to see her want her college life independence and freedom back. Christmas is just a few months away….she'll be back!</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaNwsXybQbLqbFSJRvJKTS8ty5BH_K5DMDBjSYpKipbRclc4VGRFua6MJYGNujUU68lmoCFfko8nF7-_iVLS6V0MQHut_18twWcYSEQ_r10lJ1Hn6h9V7CPqBrRO9SrWKoxmmIqpttOvE/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaNwsXybQbLqbFSJRvJKTS8ty5BH_K5DMDBjSYpKipbRclc4VGRFua6MJYGNujUU68lmoCFfko8nF7-_iVLS6V0MQHut_18twWcYSEQ_r10lJ1Hn6h9V7CPqBrRO9SrWKoxmmIqpttOvE/s1600/photo+1.JPG" /></a></div>
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See ya soon Gabby!</div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-10912817311315002922014-08-05T14:56:00.003-05:002014-08-05T15:00:09.549-05:00The Story Of The Patella Tendon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fL-D-ku5b2L320wQ06F9f006SowJORnuT426c1Dg_VohkwJNX0uzLmuMiFepsmBmNqWkupHq6bdSS6xsIdMvm39ubZPAp8suI2iZL49haA2PIu-wqGMVg8qSZ-LpYhEAOXCzFRJnO0U/s1600/IMG_7853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fL-D-ku5b2L320wQ06F9f006SowJORnuT426c1Dg_VohkwJNX0uzLmuMiFepsmBmNqWkupHq6bdSS6xsIdMvm39ubZPAp8suI2iZL49haA2PIu-wqGMVg8qSZ-LpYhEAOXCzFRJnO0U/s1600/IMG_7853.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eric’s surgery was today. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He was wheeled into recovery at 10:02 am this morning. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglzYuTgw_SfT9xFsZzYUaz3wkrZP1swZwOf3Mpihp1MGsZnlt5ZG4O3BBMtTrpLg1DWupt-KUZJbj4GkXOlyFkOcTskzmcE0LZiKIgMAp8nmFR6-TPnWQJeOlxk9TS3Q29eeUTnUxewgU/s1600/IMG_7862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglzYuTgw_SfT9xFsZzYUaz3wkrZP1swZwOf3Mpihp1MGsZnlt5ZG4O3BBMtTrpLg1DWupt-KUZJbj4GkXOlyFkOcTskzmcE0LZiKIgMAp8nmFR6-TPnWQJeOlxk9TS3Q29eeUTnUxewgU/s1600/IMG_7862.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh yeah, if you are reading this and have no idea what I am
talking about, then you have not heard “The Story Of The Patella Tendon”….<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">Patella tendon:</span></i></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"> A tendon that extends down from the
quadriceps muscle in the thigh to incorporate the patella (the <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=8868"><span style="color: #999999;">kneecap</span></a>) and attach it to the tibia (the <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=8460"><span style="color: #999999;">shinbone</span></a>), providing extension at the <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=8845"><span style="color: #999999;">knee joint</span></a>. The patella tendon is also
called the <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=34204"><span style="color: #999999;">patella ligament</span></a> because it connects the
patella to the tibia. (Ligaments connect bones while tendons connect muscles to
bones.)</span><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once upon a time, there was an Aiden family reunion being
held in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1SUhYhYwquDGRn4Rnt21wQARiXvBk_ClOX118P17ucsz0aMKEAlSnVhIezKugrt0hxa-5lmr6-bnLHsMvQqvDH-UHPqEcOGy828uufJhE6_L-M7hjYZoyuN9BiMkz5YRyixv5M57PIaQ/s1600/IMG_7704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1SUhYhYwquDGRn4Rnt21wQARiXvBk_ClOX118P17ucsz0aMKEAlSnVhIezKugrt0hxa-5lmr6-bnLHsMvQqvDH-UHPqEcOGy828uufJhE6_L-M7hjYZoyuN9BiMkz5YRyixv5M57PIaQ/s1600/IMG_7704.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eric, Tracy and </span>Sinobia<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span>Aiden<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> arrived in town, safe and
sound, on Thursday evening (Gabrielle stayed home to attend the Jay-Z and
</span>Beyonce<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> concert).</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The family members all greeted each other, had breakfast
together on Friday morning before heading off to the park to play some friendly
family games and relay races.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Across the park, many could spot the men engaging in a slightly
non-competitive, old man vs. young man game of basketball.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few minutes later, Sinobia is spotted
running across the field, towards her mother (that’s me).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She says, “Dad is hurt.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tracy runs across the field to the basketball court (yes, I
really ran), where she sees a group of men hovering over Eric, who is lying on
the ground.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYHHkZstMfTutusEkg_REn08eGHRVza-Vdt7_5isJEDZ1dSQ98SHQFqLDSS4ZBh4-MxF7tVQ2gaf30OJg1BF1sNTADFoMRoQwJC57DG5m_mlJ0877R2IKFSnYPzNJY79Ci6OxbmYWY2o/s1600/IMG_7744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYHHkZstMfTutusEkg_REn08eGHRVza-Vdt7_5isJEDZ1dSQ98SHQFqLDSS4ZBh4-MxF7tVQ2gaf30OJg1BF1sNTADFoMRoQwJC57DG5m_mlJ0877R2IKFSnYPzNJY79Ci6OxbmYWY2o/s1600/IMG_7744.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEUC050NLd5lSXvFipsQFe6CnaF6T8DOoqjbjw2M0vGRRGC6DGmbAvMBN9nSwSLQQa02wKKGlSS9VYx2u96fJRawg7O2yN03AeeV5eh3AR3CgiX-ZM5paBABq4iPh03aT_mXURVKiqpk/s1600/IMG_7749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEUC050NLd5lSXvFipsQFe6CnaF6T8DOoqjbjw2M0vGRRGC6DGmbAvMBN9nSwSLQQa02wKKGlSS9VYx2u96fJRawg7O2yN03AeeV5eh3AR3CgiX-ZM5paBABq4iPh03aT_mXURVKiqpk/s1600/IMG_7749.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eric has that dazed look in his eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tracy can tell he’s either in pain or in shock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He says he’s fine, but he can’t bend his
leg.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnK3KizsjVtRhQO_rXLgWU6lx61lQG48a4SJN4JQafxOgxbmqQYCuCAAj0yiu3WnOaT6bMgog_EFb71WJCCJDasjIXKnARrp3aOA8O7RhrdTn537ar6gerbBFnqS1fAGJL5wb0hYDZl0/s1600/At+the+Hosp.+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnK3KizsjVtRhQO_rXLgWU6lx61lQG48a4SJN4JQafxOgxbmqQYCuCAAj0yiu3WnOaT6bMgog_EFb71WJCCJDasjIXKnARrp3aOA8O7RhrdTn537ar6gerbBFnqS1fAGJL5wb0hYDZl0/s1600/At+the+Hosp.+001.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Someone calls the ambulance and the park police.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They both arrive at the same time to the
scene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eric is assessed and then lifted
onto the gurney and deposited into the back of the ambulance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tracy gets to ride in the front seat as they
drive through 2 or 3 towns to the nearest emergency room, where they are
greeted by a group of friendly nurses and doctors that take really good care of
Eric.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5HInkqcjdpYmkzUcR50q7pebV8kQ7N_RJmVutZ1kyU07RIMF-l_CpJ1NFDpZkGhXOQn7zy8KQAG0LIIi_BImnqvpUKvrh2yvIlQUVSPyxbc-bp5SvbOOSTOD541qjseLgB72EYFsYydw/s1600/At+the+Hosp.+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5HInkqcjdpYmkzUcR50q7pebV8kQ7N_RJmVutZ1kyU07RIMF-l_CpJ1NFDpZkGhXOQn7zy8KQAG0LIIi_BImnqvpUKvrh2yvIlQUVSPyxbc-bp5SvbOOSTOD541qjseLgB72EYFsYydw/s1600/At+the+Hosp.+004.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">X-rays are done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Nothing is broken, but the knee is too swollen to really tell what the
damage is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fast forward to Sunday morning…..Eric can’t drive, so Tracy has to drive them
home (Tracy hates to drive).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After 2
hours of traffic, rain and flash flood warnings in the mountains, they arrive
home 11 hours later, safe and sound.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqM3nqgFLWiNn6QWRr1Znsqoqcxytivxw5kaCDgiegsFV9zHR_v2GIhoozc36V9-YqaMZz0KyK4ay3Xlqru2JlqzalDTV-mnHVVIAMI5r3Evnv2cqnTpi7HrSQSfLc5Lh8k5kcoDoDFU/s1600/IMG_7861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eric visits the orthopedic surgeon upon his return
home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is given the diagnosis; a torn
patella tendon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surgery is scheduled to
happen in four days!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqM3nqgFLWiNn6QWRr1Znsqoqcxytivxw5kaCDgiegsFV9zHR_v2GIhoozc36V9-YqaMZz0KyK4ay3Xlqru2JlqzalDTV-mnHVVIAMI5r3Evnv2cqnTpi7HrSQSfLc5Lh8k5kcoDoDFU/s1600/IMG_7861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqM3nqgFLWiNn6QWRr1Znsqoqcxytivxw5kaCDgiegsFV9zHR_v2GIhoozc36V9-YqaMZz0KyK4ay3Xlqru2JlqzalDTV-mnHVVIAMI5r3Evnv2cqnTpi7HrSQSfLc5Lh8k5kcoDoDFU/s1600/IMG_7861.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well four days later, here we are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sitting in the surgical center waiting room,
drinking up their free coffee, watching movies on our computers, trying to purchase <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><b>5 seconds of Summer</b></i> “pre-sale” tickets
with the not so fast internet they are offering and blogging about our late
summer/July/patella adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All went well and
Gabrielle, Sinobia and I are headed home to nurse Eric back to health.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not "<i>The End"</i> of this story….to be continued.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Never a dull moment in the Aiden House.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-8171137326816636132014-08-01T20:31:00.001-05:002014-08-01T20:31:57.748-05:00Summer Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My last blog entry was exactly one month ago on July 1st. I wrote that I was having a hard time getting into the swing of summer…now I am starting to mourn the loss of summer as it is quickly slipping away.<br />
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We will be back to school in a few weeks. Gabby will be heading back to California. Sinobia will be starting high school. I will go back to meet my new group of kindergartners and Eric will head back to ETHS to keep all systems running. <br />
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So, as all of this creeps up on us, I wanted to just post an update on how our summer has been.<br />
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We celebrated Eric this summer for both Father's Day and his Birthday (July 10). You all know that Eric is our favorite guy. They don't come any better than him. He is an amazing father and an incredible husband. I have gushed about him many times before, he is a rare breed!<br />
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Sinobia and I attended the Pride Parade (and brought Leah with us) and scored our prime spot in front of Whole Foods again this year, so we were front and center and in the middle of all the action!</div>
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The 4th of July was celebrated in our traditional Aiden way; lunch together and then attending the Evanston Parade in our coveted spot in front of Starbucks!<br />
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Gabby has returned to her home at the Actors Gymnasium for the summer. She performed at their fundraiser night at Temperance Brewery in Evanston and is working as a camp counselor at the Gym with the circus kiddos. </div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">The Actors Gymnasium also offers a Summer Intensive Class every year, that Gabby looks forward to being a part of. This summer, she and her friend Justin (shout out to my honorary son Justin!!) choreographed and performed an amazing trapeze routine together. We have been waiting for these two to put their strength and skills together for years…the did not disappoint (see video above)!</span></div>
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Sinobia has gone concert crazy this summer! She attended the Paramour and Fall Out Boy concert with friends and then convinced Eric and I to take her and her friend Leah to the Warped Tour 2014 at Tinley Park. Well, warped tour is an all-day (11:00 am to 9:00 pm), "alternative band" music festival. Eric and I were definitely out of place; we lacked the colored hair/Doc Martens/piercings/grunge look that was the vibe for most of the attendees. 2 more summer concerts to go for Sinobia. With these last ones, Eric and I have split the duties, so I get One Direction and he gets Ed Sheeran!</div>
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Eric, Sinobia and I attended the Aiden Family Reunion in Gatlinburg, TN towards the end of July. The Chicago Aiden crew planned and coordinated this year's event and everything turned out amazing (we did a great job Aiden/Hilliard Crew)! Gabby stayed home to see Beyonce and Jay-Z perform at Solider Field, so it was just the 3 of us up in the mountains with the family!</div>
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A few weeks left of summer….who knows what adventures are in store for us. We'll keep you posted.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-19281738440257704362014-07-01T16:06:00.001-05:002014-07-01T16:19:03.348-05:00Getting In The Summer Mood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV5MRShM-uDDK7iBOqIWoO65hTxHLIkpDIa5tftdhJqgYjWil-JoNO___X6l4mo3GIvKPcCoUwO0OcE7snT9dwnwL5IU2yoWjKkKefU6EjAGOoAjheB7qaqJt1-8PjFazKHYdXuknPOTI/s1600/photo-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV5MRShM-uDDK7iBOqIWoO65hTxHLIkpDIa5tftdhJqgYjWil-JoNO___X6l4mo3GIvKPcCoUwO0OcE7snT9dwnwL5IU2yoWjKkKefU6EjAGOoAjheB7qaqJt1-8PjFazKHYdXuknPOTI/s1600/photo-3.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Summer has begun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s always official in my mind once I’ve made my first trip to the
beach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I usually have a hard time getting into the summer
mood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s a guilt that I feel for
not working full-time in the summer and having time off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I always feel like I have to clean, organize
and complete projects to justify my time off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This year I have one main project, but it will go on through the span of
the summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have decided to print some
of our digital photos from special occasions and place them in photo albums…old
school style!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel as if digital
photos never get printed and then the memories get lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People always look as real photos, so
graduations, proms, trips abroad, etc. are getting printed, sorted and placed
in photo books this summer!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This year I have decided to try my hardest to be a little
more laid back about summer and to take it easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am trying to enjoy every moment of my
well-deserved summer off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I love
most about summer is that the sun shines most days and I don’t need to wear
boots and a coat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This sort of weather
makes me smile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love not having to
wake up at 5 am each morning to go to work (even though Nera the cat has not
figured that out yet).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love that I
sway away from my routine of ironing my clothes every night during the summer;
I giggle every day as I pick out my clothes and just shake them out!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love that the days are long and my
carpooling is less in the summertime.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love that I have the opportunity to catch-up with friends during the summer.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJaLJz6KbrzOATkhRS_HzAoxmnUSjOTsc61tAoDX4jJrlrGdf3qx7BtJGSEecXk_Cw_meYPN70h6pGqle9210bevqB3CsZuuh_1VaJ5riES-nC9Vu5LFSGgISIj9AzIPHfXcebgbuKjhM/s1600/photo-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJaLJz6KbrzOATkhRS_HzAoxmnUSjOTsc61tAoDX4jJrlrGdf3qx7BtJGSEecXk_Cw_meYPN70h6pGqle9210bevqB3CsZuuh_1VaJ5riES-nC9Vu5LFSGgISIj9AzIPHfXcebgbuKjhM/s1600/photo-5.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
I
love that I am not a slave to the clock during the summer; we eat, we sleep and
we play when we want. I don't pack lunches during the summer and don't stress out about dinners being cooked. I love that my load becomes a little lighter, which allows for my mood to be a little lighter too.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This year, my college girl has come back to me for the
summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m not sure if she came home to
see me or to just be back with her beloved circus family that she missed so
much while she was away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is working
at the Actors Gym and taking an intensive class there too, so much of her day
is spent at the gym.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gym or no gym, I
still love having her in the house again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is my understanding that the time will soon come when she will not be
coming home for the summer, so we will enjoy the visit while we can.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My newly “middle-school graduate” is attending summer school
at the big high school and is figuring out her newly found “high school girl”
freedom that comes with this summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
am learning not to text and call every half hour and to trust that she and her
great friends are having some good, clean, safe fun while away from the house<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have already had a few adventures this summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We treated Eric to the Michael Jackson Cirque
Du Soleil show that was in town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gabby
even took on a dare and jumped out of the car and juggled to some Michael
Jackson music for a small crowd while we were stuck in parking lot traffic. </div>
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Sinobia
and I brought a friend to spend the day with us at the Pride Parade last
Sunday. We were front and center in the
midst of all the action. Sinobia and her
friend scored bags full of Pride Parade swag.
I scored a sun-burn on my shoulders and back. </div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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With summer school, summer camp and summer jobs in full swing, whether I am ready or not, summer has begun. So, let the summer festivities begin!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think I'm finally ready….<o:p></o:p></div>
The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-47084553136262585132014-06-06T18:18:00.002-05:002014-06-06T18:18:31.522-05:008th Grade Graduation!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulHStFByRyPEboKBhsX638xV_XrVSuVRZkcB0FjXM80jXn1mvyGtWIy87NBN1cAB0WCX5pnOY7VPWzW3nARUgrCTBuBMOyJC8l4UR-yiurDpNWGarwBwrR6O8ClAENmuYWOsMpDDikBE/s1600/DSC_0331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulHStFByRyPEboKBhsX638xV_XrVSuVRZkcB0FjXM80jXn1mvyGtWIy87NBN1cAB0WCX5pnOY7VPWzW3nARUgrCTBuBMOyJC8l4UR-yiurDpNWGarwBwrR6O8ClAENmuYWOsMpDDikBE/s1600/DSC_0331.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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I ignore the feeling of my achy body when I roll out of bed each day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tuck the grey hairs into my
bun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve tried a variety of "over the
counter" remedies for the dark circles under my eyes. I know a few of the new pop
songs and occasionally share clothes with my girls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I struggle with being the hip mom vs. being
the old-school strict mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am fighting
time and in denial of the fact that I am getting old.<o:p></o:p></div>
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On Wednesday night there was no denying that time has quickly
slipped away from me….my little girl, my baby girl, graduated from middle
school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sinobia is headed to high
school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She will be a freshman at ETHS
in the Fall.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0j9DZSvPdE_7dHfSene9aUCIoSS3T77qBxA_AH5hqH0cqoOLnQ67b351ARWN-wTjT74HIr32gzy84oZErbZ3_acytjA5XBq8jGjKbw9GHoZt-N89_9medlgJtI8HsWFB3e6Qs5dsBAUI/s1600/DSC_0337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0j9DZSvPdE_7dHfSene9aUCIoSS3T77qBxA_AH5hqH0cqoOLnQ67b351ARWN-wTjT74HIr32gzy84oZErbZ3_acytjA5XBq8jGjKbw9GHoZt-N89_9medlgJtI8HsWFB3e6Qs5dsBAUI/s1600/DSC_0337.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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My purse was stuffed with tissue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My sister-in-law had tissue waiting for me
too, but surprisingly enough, there were no tears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wasn’t sad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’m excited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m a little curious
too; curious to see what Sinobia will gravitate to in high school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where her passions will lead her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What adventures are in store for her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga7fGdANKABT-dX0cvbCOZ8r-PYB37nXQQpb-UY5kx4P1LyMiFlaJ6D_cqkGu5hCVwbXQ6GB5jXiWWjry16Szsh_D2jnf-XGDJ7cZMBrjbgQChtvPpDzt4YmphU-Uq4i7ccUgp6AjabwU/s1600/DSC_0383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga7fGdANKABT-dX0cvbCOZ8r-PYB37nXQQpb-UY5kx4P1LyMiFlaJ6D_cqkGu5hCVwbXQ6GB5jXiWWjry16Szsh_D2jnf-XGDJ7cZMBrjbgQChtvPpDzt4YmphU-Uq4i7ccUgp6AjabwU/s1600/DSC_0383.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Wednesday was a proud momma moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not the water works that occurred 3 years ago
when she left elementary school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I now
know she can hold her own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She can seize
her own opportunities and chart her own journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Chute Middle School has given my girl such a gift. They have give her a family, confidence, experiences that she will cherish forever and the tools she needs to move on and be successful. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqBWz-_DP2uvilrBK1Pl0J2XrEzNoMOycU4KITJlYaW00hxQSDXTOSCG0hCSlMBeLfiN5XrOwNImr7rpiwDXdgVA5biLcMNk7WZBwxEbggcflv1BhHRR54Xy1_LGKvkmcALC5ubMgn_8/s1600/IMG_7229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvqBWz-_DP2uvilrBK1Pl0J2XrEzNoMOycU4KITJlYaW00hxQSDXTOSCG0hCSlMBeLfiN5XrOwNImr7rpiwDXdgVA5biLcMNk7WZBwxEbggcflv1BhHRR54Xy1_LGKvkmcALC5ubMgn_8/s1600/IMG_7229.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">We are moving forward (at warp speed) and I am ready. The question is…is the rest of the world ready for my Sinobia? Stay tuned and find out!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi653d24OoFO5AkOD1qCEvRLdvL8r1cxvwuKl4K25uuqlOsa9YYFdSqRAY7kozQF4d4Zpa_4rcQ6yxeRJAKwBbZUhbKFk6NBfT94WiKNmD5ByFxIwMkXzj7VxmQeI2ekiMxudWQk_M7n5c/s1600/IMG_7215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi653d24OoFO5AkOD1qCEvRLdvL8r1cxvwuKl4K25uuqlOsa9YYFdSqRAY7kozQF4d4Zpa_4rcQ6yxeRJAKwBbZUhbKFk6NBfT94WiKNmD5ByFxIwMkXzj7VxmQeI2ekiMxudWQk_M7n5c/s1600/IMG_7215.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"> Congratulations Sinobia!!</span></b></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilSbxhqGRoH8tQlykdVVLS2eLF8cWR_zEofBAJCobj1na5yYGwtYpROAtVkSRfI5vLuT5DwVVqDHAFbQbLwV8_9MkuorFVeHXX-rTQ3uAVVafuldCLZCKt7l9wL49tlFcrPzsIMMxAePs/s1600/IMG_7242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilSbxhqGRoH8tQlykdVVLS2eLF8cWR_zEofBAJCobj1na5yYGwtYpROAtVkSRfI5vLuT5DwVVqDHAFbQbLwV8_9MkuorFVeHXX-rTQ3uAVVafuldCLZCKt7l9wL49tlFcrPzsIMMxAePs/s1600/IMG_7242.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></span><br />
<i style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> So long Middle School!!</span></b></i></div>
The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-49938638272879280722014-05-29T20:58:00.002-05:002014-05-29T21:12:47.590-05:00The Last Moments Begin….<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLREvC963SSgnmhjZqhxxVZSKCgWboQq-s1O1YU2fm-QkTLPJix_6lMii4ChoojIb9Qqk6T8RJ0ooeS1o-uxqmcZM1xm1miUfViYldZdUSY2acT0C_QtlgA3QfXEHm8fPyA6LFksi6r8s/s1600/photo-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLREvC963SSgnmhjZqhxxVZSKCgWboQq-s1O1YU2fm-QkTLPJix_6lMii4ChoojIb9Qqk6T8RJ0ooeS1o-uxqmcZM1xm1miUfViYldZdUSY2acT0C_QtlgA3QfXEHm8fPyA6LFksi6r8s/s1600/photo-2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kindergarten Graduation!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucPtpjr2QSRF_RsCF-plwYA3Ia6EDkDbPE1jOzP2QBqprIu4CW7kYKnIVR75HNIamrlCDh25Zt_U3hyyFdyUg_z-r5taXlYe_acc8PxEBJJ4fepLyItNnIyymb8QO8Ok72VvH6C7POnk/s1600/100_1002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucPtpjr2QSRF_RsCF-plwYA3Ia6EDkDbPE1jOzP2QBqprIu4CW7kYKnIVR75HNIamrlCDh25Zt_U3hyyFdyUg_z-r5taXlYe_acc8PxEBJJ4fepLyItNnIyymb8QO8Ok72VvH6C7POnk/s1600/100_1002.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5th Grade Graduation!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After 14 years and 2 children in District 65, we are
preparing to say farewell.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sinobia will
be graduating from 8</span><sup style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> grade in a few days and heading over to ETHS.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We could not have asked for a better education experience
for our children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have been
nurtured and loved by some amazing teachers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They have been prepared for whatever lies ahead of them by some
incredible, dedicated, gifted teachers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They have had the opportunities to make connections with educators who
have changed their lives, helped them see their potential, and encouraged them
to use the gifts that they were given to further themselves in their education
and in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Sinobia graduated from 5<sup>th</sup> grade, I sobbed
like a baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I couldn’t imagine her
leaving the safe community she had grown up with at Dawes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was worried she wasn’t ready for middle
school, that she was still my little baby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This 8<sup>th</sup> grade graduation, there will be some tears (because
you all know that I really am a big cry baby), but I am also excited for Sinobia
to enter high school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t wait to
see what she will get herself into, what she will become passionate about, what
kinds of friends she will make and what sort of impact she will have on the
ETHS world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, It’s that time of year, when we start having out “last”
moments in this phase of our lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last week, Sinobia performed in her last orchestra concert a
Chute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is not only significant
because it was her last Chute concert, but also because she is retiring from
being a Bass player.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sinobia will not be
joining the Orchestra at ETHS, as Gabby did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was a difficult decision to make, as we truly believe that the gift
of playing a musical instrument is a magical and amazing gift to give your children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What led us to this decision is the fact that
Gabby and Sinobia are TOTALLY different kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We have to allow Sinobia to take her journey through high school without
feeling as if she has to follow her big sisters path.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sinobia needs to make her own path…and that
she will.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, scrolling through my pictures I found a picture of the
very first day that Sinobia got her Bass and of course I took a picture of the
very last day she played it…</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So sad, yet so exciting! Coming up soon? 8th Grade GRADUATION!!! Here we go!</span></div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-14546568083443583692014-04-11T12:00:00.001-05:002014-04-11T12:00:40.630-05:00Happy 14th Birthday Sinobia!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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14 years ago today, April 11, 2000, my Sinobia was born! She did not come into this world quietly. There was lots of screaming, crying, huffing, puffing and pushing as she entered into our lives. Her reputation for drama and fanfare has stayed true throughout these 14 years. Every day, since the moment my water broke has been an adventure with Sinobia. Life is never dull with her around. <br />
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As our iPhones turned to midnight today, Sinobia's phone began buzzing and ringing. She was flooded with birthday messages from her friends. I realized that the same crazy, weird, hilarious moods she brings to our house, she also brings to all of those around her. She is "SO Sinobia" all of the time. In her 14 years she has learned to love herself for who she is and embrace all that she has to offer to others. She stays constant and true to herself all of the time, never changing or compromising her values and self-worth for others. She is a gift to all that have the pleasure of knowing her and a treasure to those who have her as a friend, sister, cousin, niece, granddaughter and daughter.<br />
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Happy Birthday Sinobia! We love you!</div>
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<br />The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-34913449884356467822014-02-01T15:52:00.001-06:002014-02-01T15:53:40.322-06:00Swim Marathon 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJWtqY_2a-zh2cy9m6dLAHu-KHU_8my1em80lhTIvbsIJ2_rEZ4jBcTEqR8PrdCqi3-qyrUXHNwCjjC5RyGEzWYw_p65HGE-qSIQYjtZFP2UWBGWFtJbuNI6C3eW042g08iyWLCpCY4IY/s1600/Sinobia.jpg" height="250" width="400" /></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #45818e; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>"If you think your sport is hard, try doing it while holding your breath"</b></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #45818e; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>~@theswimmwerslife</b></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After nearly a month off from swimming because of her asthma, Sinobia jumped back into the pool on Tuesday to participate in the 19th Annual Flying Fish Swim Marathon, an one hour continuous swim with her swim team.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eric and I sat at the side of the pool, with inhaler in hand, prepared to pull her out of the pool if her breathing got bad. As we started counting laps at the beginning of the hour, it became clear to us that she was not going to stop swimming. Her pace was great, her breathing was relaxed and she was in the swimming zone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last year she swam 138 lengths in an hour. This year she did not let the asthma keep her down and away from raising funds for her beloved swim team. She emerged from the pool having swam 144 lengths in the one hour! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #333333; color: cyan; font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">(These funds help the YWCA continue to provide healthy aquatic programming, provide financial assistance to families who cannot afford the cost of swim lessons or swim team participation, and support YWCA services in the areas domestic violence and violence prevention.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was Sinobia's 5th year participating in the swim marathon and the first year that Gabby was not here to count her little sister's laps. We sent Gabby a text right after Sinobia got out of the pool to report the 144. "Dang, is that a record?" was her response. This year, I think I am the one in awe of Sinobia (and relieved that her breathing stayed strong). She was pretty sick for a while there, but she got through it and got herself strong again, just in time for marathon. She definitely has the willpower and discipline that I don't. She is determined and strong all of the time. Traits that will continue to serve her well in her life.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is still time to sponsor Sinobia and her Swim Marathon cause (you have until February 28th). The YWCA has made it so easy this year, they set up web pages for each kid, so you can click on the link below, it will take you straight to Sinobia's web page, where you can make a donation (and/or see her cute picture), or you can just send her a check:)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.ywca.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=1095752&lis=1&kntae1095752=1FE0B14D1DC5463B97AE44484661BCD8&supId=300755156&emaillogid=7474605364">Follow This Link</a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="color: cyan;">t</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="color: cyan;">o visit Sinobia's personal web page and help me in my efforts to support YWCA </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #444444; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="color: cyan;">- Evanston/North Shore</span></span></div>
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<i style="background-color: #333333; color: #cccccc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>Thank you to everyone who has helped her meet (and possibly exceed) her goal!</b></span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: #333333; color: cyan; font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-24529172698354840122014-01-02T18:04:00.001-06:002014-01-02T18:35:11.335-06:002014....Happy New Year! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy New Year Everyone!</div>
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I'm sitting at swim team practice right now. It's my first carpool night of 2014. Sinobia has been out from swimming for about 3 weeks. What started as "just a cold" ended up being close to 2 weeks out of school and 3 weeks from swimming after her asthma resurfaced from a 2 year hiatus. I am thankful that 2014 has greeted all of us in good spirits and in good health.<br />
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2013 was a year of changes and transitions for our family. We made it through the college process and shed less tears than expected during our Senior year moments, watched Sinobia become a beast in the water as she mastered her butterfly stroke, hosted our first exchange student and then sent Gabby to Spain to be hosted by a family, graduated our first born from high school and sent her across the country to college and attended "Freshman Information Night" for our "Class of 2018" Sinobia!<br />
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2013 was the first year that we let Sinobia travel without us, sending her on two trips, one to Italy and one to Virginia Beach. <br />
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It was the first time we spent a New Years eve without our children...Sinobia was in Italy and Gabby was at her first concert without me.<br />
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2013 validated that our family is strong and resilient; as we stuck together through thick and thin. <br />
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2013 was the year that Eric and I realized that, although challenging at times, we've kinda got this parenting thing under control. <br />
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2013 was the first year that our family spent Thanksgiving without Gabby. <br />
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2013 is the year that I started to realize that my children didn't need me so much, and that I needed to start taking care of myself.<br />
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2013 is the year that I remembered to tell my colleagues how much I appreciate them, more often. <br />
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2013 was the year that, after 5 years, I finally let go of my iPhone 1 and upgraded to the iPhone 5. With this upgrade, I discovered instagram and quickly became a part of the "social media" world. I'm now addicted to instagram (but still not on Facebook)!<br />
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So many memories from 2013, but we are looking forward to making even more memories in 2014. As our children continue to grow up, our lives will continue evolving and changing. Eric and I are still growing as well. Every year we discover new things about ourselves and begin to pay closer attention to the adults/people/parents/partners that we have become. 2014 will bring more growth for us as well.<br />
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In 2014 we will continue to be thankful for all the love and camaraderie that we have in our Aiden clan. We will cherish our moments together and hope for many more memory making years together.<br />
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We wish all the best for you and your family in 2014. Thanks for following our family's journey.<br />
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-4437352182825300852013-12-29T21:43:00.002-06:002013-12-29T21:43:57.144-06:00Happy 19th Birthday Gabrielle!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gabby turned 19 today! </span></div>
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I'm at a loss for words....19 years is a long time, but it has gone by so fast. My little girl is a young woman now. </div>
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Year 18 was full of transitions for our girl. Gabby hosted an exchange student, traveled to Spain, completed the stressful college process, committed to a college, made it through her 4th and final year of Varsity gymnastics, attended prom, graduated with honors. started her freshman year at San Jose State University and spent her first Thanksgiving away from home in San Francisco.</div>
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Now she's home for her Winter break and I am soaking up every minute that she is here with us. I know that there will come a day when she may not come home so much. She will soon have a life of her own, so until then, I will cherish every moment we have together. </div>
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We usually don't celebrate our kids birthdays in a big way, outside of their kiddie birthday parties (and the celebrated Sweet 16), but this year we made an exception since our girl has been away from home for 4 months. Her choice of restaurants....Carnivale!</div>
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We have a few more weeks with Gabby at home with us before she's back to California for her second semester. We're all going to make the most of this time together....smother her with all of our love and affection. </div>
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Happy 19th Birthday Gabby!</div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-36020097747600677742013-11-30T21:43:00.003-06:002013-11-30T21:58:27.635-06:00Happy Thanksgiving 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: left;">This weekend has been a weekend to slow down and reflect on all that I am thankful for. I often just stop in my tracks, smile and give thanks for the amazing life I have, but this thanksgiving weekend was </span><span style="text-align: left;">very deliberate. It feels as if my life is changing every day. Each morning I wake up and take a deep breath, ready to take on whatever comes my way. I am ready for some of the changes and others are catching me by surprise, yet I am still thankful.</span></div>
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This was my first Thanksgiving in 18 years without Gabby. I imagined this day would be a sad one; me crying and missing my big girl, but it was a good day. I was thankful to hear her voice on the phone and know that she was enjoying her Thanksgiving in San Francisco with one of her best friends. She was safe, had a place to stay and good food to eat. She is enjoying California college life and will be home in a few weeks.</div>
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Sinobia kept us laughing and entertained most of the day. Her "teenage" personality is evolving every day. While this is an exhausting process, it's also quite fun to watch. I'm thankful that she still allows us to be a part of her life, as this is the time when teenagers begin to push their parents away. We had ourselves a movie date today and she actually sat right next to me. She is growing up to be a great kid....big world look out!</div>
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Eric fried us an amazing turkey this year for thanksgiving; his best yet! I wake up every day thankful to have him by my side. I couldn't ask for a more patient and loving partner and father for my children. Eric is learning to deal with my menopause craziness like a real trooper. I can never predict my mood, temperature or sensitivity, but he is always ready for whatever emerges from the menopausal beast that lurks within me.</div>
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I am thankful that my mom and brother are in good health. They are doing well in Louisiana. I wish I could see them more often, but our constant phone calls keep us connected. I am thankful for the great family that the Aiden's are to me. Eric's parents are like my parents and his siblings are like my own as well. When I cannot be with my mom and brother, they embrace me and surround me with love every minute that I am with them.</div>
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I am thankful for all of my amazing friends that I have. I have chosen to surround myself with people that are easy to love...they in return love me, my children and my family unconditionally. I have had the opportunity to connect with some friends over the past few weeks. It feels good to see them, hug them and enjoy their company while remembering why I love them so much.</div>
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I am thankful for my great job and my lovely classroom of children and parents this year. My colleagues are constantly supporting me, pushing me to grow professionally and encouraging me to be the one and only "Authentic" Tracy. I am thankful for my kindergarten grade-mate, tucked in the hallway corner with me (shout-out to Lizzy B), who always has my back. Liz has jumped on my crazy menopausal roller-coaster and has learned to read my moods well. She always makes me laugh when she predicts tears will start to flow from my eyes..she quickly jumps into action shouting "Don't cry! Don't cry!" and produces tissue at just the right time.</div>
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I am thankful for our simple, yet beautiful home, where we love each other fiercely, fight like cats and dogs, sing too loud, laugh even louder and cherish each moment we have together.</div>
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I hope that everyone takes the time to reflect on the things that they are thankful for in their lives. Life is so fragile and many are not afforded much time on this earth. Love who you are, what you have and be thankful. Happy Thanksgiving!</div>
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The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-68767183510019864552013-11-23T20:35:00.000-06:002013-11-23T20:35:05.755-06:00Where Has The Time Gone?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, a few weeks ago, I find myself sitting in an auditorium full of children and parents at ETHS. I think I'm dreaming before I realize that I am at "Incoming Freshman" orientation for Sinobia. <br />
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Where has the time gone? I still remember crying my eyes out at her 5th grade graduation a few years ago, so sad that she was leaving the elementary school nest and moving on to middle school. Now she is talking about summer school, schedules, sports and college?!<br />
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With one of our girls gone away to college, it's hard for me to wrap my brain around the fact that the next 4 years are going to go by so fast. They went too fast with Gabby. One day we were saying, "oh, we have plenty of time" and the next we were declaring a school and packing up her life to send her off to California. <br />
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I'm going to try to take the next 4 years really slow. No one really remembers Sinobia as a little kid. It seems as if she was just born this little mini-person and just kept on growing, evolving and maturing as each day went by. I know now from experience that these days are to be cherished. Our baby is not our little baby anymore.<br />
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<br />The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3320354411895328836.post-37639431206308505672013-10-25T18:33:00.003-05:002013-10-25T18:45:45.417-05:00Life Is Good<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have to admit...I've been cheating. Since I upgraded from my iPhone1 to my iPhone5 this summer, I have been obsessed with all the great things it can do and I have become a big fan of instagram. I love it...so, many of my cute captions, photos and moments have been my recent instagram posts. <br />
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Life is good in the Aiden house. <br />
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Sinobia is swimming like crazy and loving it. She just completed a 4-day-in-a-row swim meet last weekend and is heading to another one this weekend. Her room smells like chlorine, but she doesn't seem to notice, since it also oozes out of her pores. Our hamper is always full of wet towels and soggy swimsuits and I trip over her swim bag a few times a week (since it lays in the middle of the dining room floor). <br />
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8th grade is going well. We just got our high school registration forms in the mail this week. Can you believe it? Our baby will be in high school next year!<br />
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Gabby is doing well in San Jose. She texts me often and calls home faithfully on Sunday nights. Her auntie Stephanie sent her a flat screen TV just in time for the new season of Scandal. I'm a little jealous, her TV is bigger and better than the one we have at home! Thanks Steph!<br />
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I check the San Jose weather every day. It hasn't rained since she's been there. So, sunny California is treating my girl well. There have been moments when I have to stop and remember that she is not at home, then I start missing her. This is the time of year when we like to bake. She's my cooking partner. This is Scandal season. She's the only one in the house that watches it with me. Moments like these really make me miss her. She will be home for Christmas.<br />
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Eric is doing well. Work keeps him busy. He and Sinobia are a little gang. They have been teaming up on me lately. Sinobia is pretty quick witted and has some good jokes. She and Eric tag-team with each other with the jokes (always at my expense). They're pretty funny. Most times I have to laugh with them. Eric misses Gabby too. He's trying to hold Sinobia close to home these days...attempting to stunt her social life and freedom. I can tell the reality that, she too, will be gone in a few years has hit him. She is pretty good a persuading him to let her loose, usually it's with the promise of constant texting and communication while she is away from home. <br />
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I have figured out that, it was evident years ago, Sinobia is a free spirit. She cannot be contained. She needs some reigning in from time to time, but for the most part we have done a good job with giving her the skills she needs to be school smart, street smart and use common sense. I love watching her grow up in her teenage years. She is not the girl I lived with a few years ago. She is constantly morphing into this person that I am in awe of. Her maturity takes me by surprise as does her need to be silly and just a kid.<br />
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The cat, the dog and the snake are all alive and doing well! Nothing has changed with them.<br />
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That's it for now...Life is good. I will try to spread my love and attention evenly between Abundantly Aiden and Instagram.<br />
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<br />The Aiden Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16026709590278676879noreply@blogger.com0