Our All-Star Bowler!

                         

Saturday marked the last day of summer bowling until the second session picks back up in September! The kids were awarded plaques and awards for their tremendous efforts and success during the summer bowling league! Thomas was sooo proud of this plaque! He had to show it off to everyone in the house, and made sure that they understood, he was with his girlfriend and his friends when he got this award. Oh and that it took place at "da alley!" Summer time is usually a hard time for Thomas, because he misses his friends and teachers! The Saturday bowling league, gives him the opportunity to visit with the kids from his class and meet new people! Overall I always enjoy his enthusiasm the day/night before, so excited to go bowling again!     

BBQ & Shakes!

Friday, we winded down the week, by lunch and dessert out! Plus we had to run a couple errands, but a fun adventure never the less! First we started out by having lunch at our favorite BBQ joint, Pierces Pitt Bar-B-Que! We love love love their BBQ sandwiches, with slaw on them of course! A side of french fries to accompany the delicious sandwich's and drinks to wash them down! We say grace, then it's chow time! Don't worry, there won't be any left overs at our table :) 

Next we headed around town, to run errands, but we quickly struck an urge for something cool and refreshing to drink! We then drove on through the Starbuck's drive-through and order us some drinks :) And yet again we were back to our thing :)

Mail Time!

"Post Office Adventures"

                            

Another trip to the post office this week! We had to mail a couple bills off! Thomas was glad to offer assistance, proud to "check the mail" as he says :) When we go inside, Thomas immediately greets the postal workers and customers, asking "How are you?" He then goes about his business, waiting eagerly for my instruction of where to place the mail, as for what slot. When he's done, he tells me that he would like to, "show Daddy or tell Momma!" It's not about the praise he hopes to get, although he does anyways :) But it's about him being proud of what he's done and having a responsibly he can carry out, basic skills in which we take so little for granted! Never the less, I tell him good job always and a high five for good measure :) 

Thomas that day, decided to wear Travis's golf hat, partly because he had bed head, and partly because he loves to wear Travis's stuff! His choice of shirt, was the ninja turtle shirt, he got for $5 at five and below! 

Swisher Duty!

 

Another exciting week for Thomas! We wanted to start off my sharing our "side job" of helping my husband :) On Thursday's we ventured out to a storage unit to unload and reload boxes and buckets of soap! It gives us an opportunity to help Travis as well as have something to do! We usually grab breakfast on the go, because we have to be there between 8:30-9:00 AM ready to do work! Thomas takes part in stacking and piling the cardboard and plastic wrap! He does a great job helping out! But sometimes he plays around with the plastic wrap too :) By the time everything is all said and done, we say goodbye to Trashin and head on down the road! 

Down Syndrome Creed!

I found this on Pinterest, and decided to share it with our viewers! Such a sweet poem and truly remarkable in capturing the persona of a Down Syndrome child/adult! Since the fourth grade, when I did a presentation to three different grade levels, sharing my passion against discrimination, I have always vowed to share my story as well as Thomas's with everyone, in hopes that one day he will always be treated fairly and equally. To this day, when we go into public, Thomas is starred at, especially kids, looking at him as if he is an alien! My feelings are this: Shame on you parents, for not teaching and raising your child up with manners and knowledge, to know that everyone is the same, no matter what they look like on the outside! And in those moments, it takes everything in me not to say anything! Thankfully Thomas never notices, and keeps a cheerful attitude that keeps me grounded every time, allowing me to ignore and hold my tongue! 

I do not have children of my own yet, but my hope for them is this: to always view life like Thomas does, without any discrimination towards anyone, a never-ending BIG heart, and the eyes to see people for who they are inside at all times! But most of all, the same love and passion for God!  

Cousin Michael Visits!

Tuesday was another relaxing day, we took time doing things around the house, and trying to re-cooperate from the washer breaking on us Monday evening! You don't realize how much you use/appreciate something, until it is gone! None the less, I love the washer, without it no clean clothes, towels, or undies!

While taking care of some chores, the door knocks, and Uncle Brian and cousin Michael have come by to pick up a few things and say hello! Thomas always loves seeing kids, especially ones from the family! We all sat/stood around and chatted for a bit, then decided to continue visiting over lunch! So we decided on a local restaurant, that has home cooking and great food! Plus it's supporting local business...we are all about that around here!!! 

Thomas had fun seeing Michael, talking with him, and enjoying his lunch all at the same time! Another exciting day in The Life of Thomas :)  

Monday Funday :)

Hoping everyone is having a great week so far like us :) 

Monday we started the week off with a little Starbuck's and shopping! Thomas loves his Vanilla Bean Frappuccino, mostly because he says it tastes like a "Vanilla Sha-shake!" It was a little too cold and rainy for me to enjoy one, so I enjoyed my Fall favorite, Caramel Apple Spice...yummmy :) So with drinks in hand we walked around the outdoor shopping center. Thomas was so excited to see that Michael's craft store, had Halloween stuff out, he was shouting "Pumpkin!" and "Candy!" Then we made our way to Bath and Body Works, Thomas loves to pick up and smell things in there! But isn't that what we all do?! Of course the Fall scents were out, so we enjoyed smelling the new ones, such as Caramel Pumpkin Latte and Pumpkin Cupcake! After a little shopping at Michael', Home Goods, Bath and Body Works, we worked up quite an appetite! Panera Bread, was just around the corner, so we made our way there for lunch! Thomas ordered his usual, the "You pick two" --Mac n Cheese, Turkey Sandwich, and a baguette :) I went with the classic Broccoli Cheddar Soup, Classic Salad, and a baguette as well! With our tummies full, we headed on back towards home! Thomas and I had an enjoyable Monday, although it was gloomy and rainy out! 

Just wanted to leave this post, with something I found on Pinterest today :) 

"My extra chromosome, makes me EXTRA cute!" 

Birthday Partyyyy!

Thomas along with his family, visited their cousin and nephew this past weekend, for a birthday party :) The theme was Angry Birds.....

Just FYI.....Thomas loves angry birds, and to prove it, he has angry birds bedding, every tshirt/sweatshirt/long sleeve there has ever been made with angry birds on it, angry birds socks, underwear, and backpack/lunchbox combo! So wouldn't you know, Thomas loved the theme of this party!!! 

Angry birds were hanging from the ceiling, along with angry birds on the cake! Balloons and angry bird tattoos were handed out! Thomas choose three angry bird tattoos for his right hand, and there still on his hand :)  

This is Thomas's favorite angry bird....the infamous RED bird :) 

Thomas enjoyed lots of yummy food, cake and ice cream, and the usual conversations at the table! Above he is laughing while watching his cousin open presents :)

Thomas Visit's Ral & Trashin's New Home!

When it comes to visiting anyone's home, Thomas likes to explore and check things out! So last week when our new home came, the day before setting it on the foundation, we took Thomas up to see it! And wouldn't you know, he was so excited to explore again. First thing he tried to do, was find a way to get in, but unfortunately, every access was blocked or closed off, due to safely transporting the house! But never the less, Thomas explored, peeked, and circled around the house over and over again! At one point we found a small hole, that allowed us to preview the bathroom. Of course he was over the moon about that, but so was I :) Most of all, he loved spending time with his buddy, Trashin (my hubby), they basically are inseparable as you can see! Thomas looks at Travis, as his brother and best friend, and same goes for Travis! (That's how he stole my heart <3 ) Thomas is the one we talk about most often, the one we miss when we're not with him, and the first person we want to see when we walk in the door = he gives the best hugs and kisses!

Tapes, Tapes, and MORE Tapes!

A mysterious present arrived on our front porch today :) A laundry basket full of VHS tapes!!! Most people, don't see the joy in this basket, but to Thomas it's pretty much like Christmas! The local Thrift Store, donated them to us, since they had little luck selling them! We accepted with arms open, and surprised Thomas with the goodies! Check out the video below, this is only a small portion of his excitement! 

Thomas and I both, were so grateful for the generous donation and thoughtfulness, found in the laundry basket! VHS tapes seem so simple, yet to him they are a diamond in the rough!

Pizza Wednesday With Emily!

When it comes to pizza, there is no standing between Thomas and it! He's the first to say yes to pizza, and the last one to finish eating! So this Wednesday, instead of visiting Emily at work, Emily visited Thomas at home :) But first, pizza had to be picked up! What a face...it says, "I love pizza!" Thomas had a fun day in, hanging out with his sister Emily!

Today, we had pizza again! Thomas gladly agreed, knowing he would never turn down a good pizza! Relaxed on the couch, stretched out, munching down on a slice of pepperoni pizza, is how this little angry bird can be found :) True enjoyment of his meal!

Post Office Visits!

Who doesn't love getting mail???

Okay let's be honest, bills aren't fun, but getting "good" mail, such as letters, cards, and finding packages, that's the fun stuff! To Thomas however, mail is mail, and is something in which brings him pure joy and excitement :) Every day Thomas will ask to check the mail, anticipating another VHS tape, of course! However, when he gets the mail out of the box, on days in which there is no package to be found, he pulls out the bills and envelopes out, calling them "letters!" (If only, they were all letters ) As well as greeting everyone in the post office and stating his mail box number, pointing to his head, and saying "remember!" This is partly, because I made a point to teach him the mail box number, since we've had to recite it back to the post masters, and in part of teaching him our address! 

Thomas loves the mail so much, I have even contemplated becoming a mail lady, one who drives around putting people's mail in their boxes! He would have to be my sidekick and ride along partner, grinning from ear to ear! 

Thomas also checks the mail at his high school, it's part of his weekly activity and job, teaching him responsibility and social skills! Plus he gets to chat with the entire office, get out of class, and stroll down the hallways :) 

My goal for Thomas, is to one day bike to the post office to check the mail! When that day happens, trust me, there will be a post about it!!! (with pride and joy...of course!)

Dad's Handyman!

If there is one thing Thomas loves to do in this world, it is helping others! It doesn't matter what you are doing, laundry, making the bed, vacuuming, etc. Thomas wants to be right with you, trying to help out in some way, shape or form. 

But, helping his family = his favorite :)

So Monday, Thomas did a ride along with dear ole' dad! He enjoyed checking out the hotel's laundry room and chatting with the housekeeping ladies! Especially, watching them fold the towels and bedding! If Thomas is fascinated with something, he rubs his hands together, swaying side to side, and hums. That's always a sure fire sign, he's happy and enjoying himself! Whenever Thomas goes to work with Dad, he has to dress the part! Meaning, a "Wilson Repair Service" pocket tee, pants/shorts, and tennis shoes (and he loves every minute of it!)

Thomas is as proud as a rutting buck, when it comes to helping and going to work with his family! He's probably the only one I know, who gets excited about going to work...hehe! But never the less, he had an awesome day with Dad! 

Thomas's Bike Is HERE :)

The "Kent Westport" finally arrive in the mail last week! We were excited for it's arrival, despite the assembly required side note! It took three adults to put that thing together, but well worth it :) Thomas was so excited to finally ride his bike! And boy did he! The take off is still a little rusty, but once he gets going, he's got it! Thomas loves his horn, we added to the handle bars :) He says he is "Mr. Bedhead" from the Big Comfy Couch with it! If you don't know what it is, well it's a children's show, with a clown and her dolly, and a big comfy couch! Very cute show :)

The pictures below in order are: the assembly of the bike, posing before his ride, and ready for the take off! Isn't he sooo cute on his bike :) 

Where to buy??

http://www.wayfair.com/Kent-Westport-Tricycle-42078-L6197-K~KBYC1022.html?refid=GX14638433220-KBYC1022&device=c&gclid=CO_q4ee09rgCFQpxQgodHmkAmQ

The bike is $258.13 with free shipping, via FedEx! P.S. you have to sign for it, so plan to have someone there, the day it is supposed to arrive! 

Off to School With Little Thomas!

Last week we went to Kindergarten Academy with "Little Thomas" and his mom! We had so much fun visiting the school he would be starting in a month, like a big boy! We made our way into the cafeteria, where we were introduced to the staff and administrators. Then we broke off into groups, with the teacher whom's class you would be in. And wouldn't you know, "Little Thomas's" teacher is named Mrs. Thomas :) So awesome, because Thomas is a great name!!! We toured the school and viewed "Little Thomas's" classroom! By the end of the tour, a bus ride was scheduled, to acclimate as well as to teach proper behavior on it! Big Thomas loved the bus ride, mostly because he has missed riding the bus on a regular basis to school! If we are on the road and a bus is spotted, he shouts "school bus yellow!" I usually respond "yes that's right buddy!" Then he will go through all the names of the people whom ride the bus with him, including the driver, aide, and student (s)! Mostly because he misses them very much during the summer break and to show off how smart he is :) 

Big Thomas was so proud to accompany "Little Thomas" that he talked about it for days! Them too are inseparable, which warms my heart, even as I write this!  

Senior Prom!

When is comes to dances, music, and his girlfriend, Thomas is a typical teenage guy, excepts he loves to go, talks about going, and is genuinely excited about it! Thomas and his girlfriend have been to three homecoming dances and two proms over the course of their high school careers! In that moment, they aren't handicapped, they are teenage kids, enjoying a high school dance, one which can be looked back on and remembered as "I did that!" When they arrive at the dance, they go right in, straight to the front, where the DJ is typically located, and start dancing! Next shoes and jackets come off, because you have to be comfortable, of course! Somewhere between thirty minutes to an hour, a trip to the refreshments table is made! Followed by more dancing, laughing, posing for photos, and shewing away gestures are made. They like to be independent and not chaperoned, although my rules are: 1.You must stay together; 2.You must be in view of one of us adults at all times. Pretty simple right?! Both of them do very well following the rules, until they decide to make a "train" and tap people on the dance floor to join along! So then I become the crazy lady, running around the dance floor, squeezing through people, just to make sure they are "still" doing okay! I can honestly say, by the end of the night, I am exhausted along with them! And a little deaf too, for the DJ speakers up front, boy are they loud! When it comes to Thomas, it's all worth it in the end, just to see him smile and genuinely happy! Plus he looks pretty darn sharp if you ask me :) 

Looking back on this special night, brings me joy to see both of them participate in all aspects of high school, instead of sheltering them and not allowing them to go, because they are handicap! It goes to show, that no matter what, there is no such thing as "normal!" You can do anything you set your mind too!