tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-118565642012-02-02T06:52:13.158-06:00Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.comBlogger2441100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-64634948088806833422011-11-14T09:22:00.011-06:002011-11-14T13:05:48.427-06:00

Okay, so when I reminded the kids this weekend that Monday was World Diabetes Day, they totally wanted to do something in honor of the day.(Pretty cool, yes?)So of course we opted to do the Big Blue Test.Why?Because each and every time any one of us does the Big Blue Test and submits our results, we help raise $75,000 for organizations out there helping people with diabetes.C'mon folks. It's

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-70392938236565149402010-11-14T10:20:00.002-06:002010-11-14T20:32:01.705-06:00

In what has become a tradition on the blog, I'm letting Joseph's voice speak for the both of us today:(Blows my mind to look at this video, and the one from last year... and the year before... I am so dang proud of him.)Once again, the blog is blue until the end of the month in honor of Diabetes Awareness Month.

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-48450095760613650172010-11-09T13:58:00.006-06:002010-11-09T14:29:59.137-06:00

Today is the sixth annual D-Blog Day (thank you, Gina Capone!) -- and though I’ve spent little time on the blog over the past year, there’s no way I could let the day go by without posting.In keeping with this year’s theme, here are six things I want everyone to know about diabetes (along with a boatload of links to illustrate them):1. Diabetes is a thief.It steals time.The time it takes to count

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-55109032874266774362010-07-29T09:46:00.004-05:002010-07-29T11:04:26.918-05:00

After writing my last post, I felt a whole heck of lot better. I needed to talk about what happened that day-- and wanted anyone reading to be aware of how quickly ketones can get out of control.And to be prepared if they do.Well, this post illustrates the flip side-- our norm this summer (vs the craziness of last Tuesday).A summer filled with drama (the stage variety, that is), swimming, and

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-84835520240603452012010-07-26T09:34:00.001-05:002010-07-26T09:36:29.315-05:00

I need to remember to put the phone by Joseph so I can wake him up to do a check after I'm gone.(That's my first thought on waking at 6:15 am last Tuesday morning.)This will be Day Two of a conference I'm attending for my job. The event pulls together folks from citizen advocacy groups across the Midwest. And since most of the work I've done this summer has been from home, this opportunity to

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-18764776772046845952010-03-31T20:33:00.008-05:002010-03-31T21:28:12.046-05:00

The kids are on spring break this week.And sadly, all of Joseph's friends are out of town, making for a somewhat quiet few days.To remedy this situation, we're heading out tomorrow for an impromptu visit to Chicago. Three days of traipsing around our old neighborhood, of taking in some sights... Millennium Park, the Art Institute, the Lincoln Park Zoo. Oh yes, and eating awesome Thai food, maybe

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-4993507867080806702010-03-22T08:51:00.004-05:002010-03-22T09:09:04.576-05:00

"Mom, Liam doesn't think you like him.""Bud, why would he think that? I don't even know him.""Remember when you met him at the high school orientation night, when I was kidding with him and said, 'Dude, my mom doesn't like you'... well I think that's why."Then Joseph's eyes take on a slightly evil glint. "Hey, I have an idea... since Liam's coming over after school tomorrow, why don't you act

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-30923372609497815522010-03-16T15:09:00.000-05:002010-03-16T15:03:56.168-05:00

Wow... three months. I can't believe it's been that long.Well, we're still here -- and it looks like we've made it through yet another Wisconsin winter. The sun is shining, it's 60 degrees, and (Hallelujah!) I can move my arm again -- still limited, but way, way better than when I last posted to the blog.Look how high I can reach with that arm... Hurray!This, despite one major setback in early

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-63161078056000386262009-12-16T13:43:00.004-06:002010-03-16T15:41:50.720-05:00

"Do you have diabetes?""Wha - What? No, no I don't" I say, looking up at the doctor's face— trying to breathe through the pain."Now, lie still and try to relax your arm," he says, taking hold of my right hand once again — then lifting my arm straight up toward the ceiling.And again I try to breathe, as this time the doc moves my arm slowly back toward my head.Only he can't get it anywhere near my

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-86672658692661348462009-12-01T09:43:00.002-06:002009-12-01T09:50:41.697-06:00

Over the last four years I've received messages from readers telling me how we're doing a "beautiful job" helping Joseph manage his diabetes and that I'm an "amazing" mom.Well at the beginning of last month, I felt about as far from amazing as any mom could get — and even now, I'm still a little shaky.You see, Joseph was sneaking food, treats mostly — but worse, he wasn't bolusing for them.When I

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-91908803850764193362009-11-25T11:51:00.001-06:002009-11-25T11:52:53.509-06:00

As we've done in previous years, we'll be celebrating Thanksgiving with friends. Cooking, talking, eating... I just love it.Though I'm still not sure what dish we're bringing.I'm thinking something chocolate.(Maybe what I made that one year)Anyhow, I wanted to check in-- to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving, and to let you know that a post is coming.A much longer post.We weathered a storm

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-57237691288834659702009-11-14T16:04:00.003-06:002009-11-14T17:13:43.568-06:00

People are gathering, talking, celebrating...Blue is everywhere.Once again, I'd like to add my son's voice to the chorus as he shares some of his thoughts about managing Type 1 diabetes and how he educates/involves his friends.(We had a lot of fun doing this... our own mini WDD celebration.) *Note: The blog stays blue until the end of the month in honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, returning to

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-876272344537397672009-11-09T14:34:00.007-06:002009-11-09T15:18:14.259-06:00

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and today is D-Blog Day -- conceived four years ago by Gina Capone at Diabetes Talkfest as a means of celebrating the power of this ever-growing online community to share, to educate, to support anyone willing to write their story, make a comment, or simply read a d-blog.My son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes just over five years ago -- and honestly, I

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-51000916049523887682009-09-21T14:29:00.003-05:002009-09-21T14:39:04.645-05:00

First-- Joseph is doing just fine.But I'll backtrack a moment because when I googled "H1N1" and "child with diabetes," I got nothing -- reassuring or otherwise. So here is our experience thus far:As I said in my last post, Joseph spiked a fever early Friday morning. Well, by early afternoon he was showing all the symptoms: cough, headache, fatigue... and his fever had climbed to 102 two hours

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-86221801003443034192009-09-18T08:37:00.006-05:002009-09-18T09:43:58.531-05:00

"Mama, why don't you write on your blog anymore?"I stop typing the press release I'm working on and look down at my girl's pale face, her dark brown and uncharacteristically watery eyes."Honey, I- well I've been busy with my job and you kids... and well... I don't know. Why do you ask?""Because I miss it.""You miss it," I say with a smile, "but Honey, you didn't really read it.""I did sometimes

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-84454294966647279872009-08-14T10:45:00.002-05:002009-08-14T10:49:08.959-05:00

We're in the homestretch of summer vacation and it's been crazy over here.Late last week, my external hard drive crashed... that would be the hard drive containing backups of our documents, photos and the only copies of my edited videos (files too big to store on our laptop).Thankfully, the Geek Squad was able to recover most of my files, however, a directory containing a large number of my

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-42245575943065126242009-08-06T12:44:00.003-05:002009-08-06T13:42:13.127-05:00

Finally.The piles of folded clothes that covered the dining room table are packed tightly into Joseph's large blue duffel-- along with sunscreen, bug spray, goggles, sneakers, flip flops...Everything my boy will need for a week at camp.And next to that duffel is a medium-sized black suitcase packed neatly with dresses, shirts, skirts and "skorts" -- along with no less than six "buddies" from

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-18815015205465830292009-08-03T11:45:00.001-05:002009-08-03T11:47:59.779-05:00

Okay, so.Joseph went to camp last week and I've got A LOT to say about it.Some absolutely awesome, some... pretty horrendous.But I can't write about it today because it's our first day home from Joseph's road trip with his little league All Star team. (I've got some stories about that, too.)Yes, I know. My posting has been choppy at best. I can't promise that I'll post more regularly because I've

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-67287093681293570602009-07-25T15:30:00.005-05:002009-07-25T17:38:10.531-05:00

Two days ago, I was flown to Indianapolis for a meeting with nearly 30 other diabetes bloggers and online community leaders-- many of them close friends.The vast majority I'd never met in the flesh.Throughout the evening and one-day event I was struck by the passion, the intense commitment of these bloggers to making life better for everyone living with diabetes.(When I wasn't fighting back

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-20926930087759145952009-06-29T08:20:00.000-05:002009-06-29T08:18:08.294-05:00

We leave tomorrow for a two week visit with family back east. If at all possible, I will post from there.In the meantime, for the sake of closure I'm sharing an entry I wrote on May 11th and just now found in a draft folder...___________________________________________________________I write my previous entry, hit "publish post" -- then sit back in my chair.Thinking.What if he gets this thing?

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-47268546483770250662009-05-08T17:30:00.002-05:002009-05-08T17:32:50.246-05:00

On my way to pick up Joseph, I can't help smiling.The sun is bright, the air warm, and it's Friday.Ice cream, that's all this day needs.Just as my boy climbs in the car, I turn and flash him a grin."How 'bout we pick up Evan and then go for some ice cream?""That'd be great," Joseph says.And then he turns and looks out the window."What's up, Bud? Anything happen at school today?""A kid got swine

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-84630232723884136872009-04-17T19:44:00.000-05:002009-04-17T19:45:44.477-05:00

... and could the freeze-frame look any goofier? Will write a post soon... really.

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-59893721368520121342009-03-29T18:43:00.005-05:002009-03-29T18:54:25.878-05:00

Have you ever lost touch with a close friend?Ever let so much time go by without talking that you just didn't know where to begin?And even when something truly wonderful happens, your shame at having let this friend fall so far out of your life prevents you from sharing it with them.Well, that's how I've been feeling for quite a while now.About this blog-- and about all of you.So I'm just gonna

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-70958356474097062902008-12-08T10:19:00.002-06:002008-12-08T10:27:20.174-06:00

Here we are coming to the end of the year, and what have I been doing?Stressing about money.Money for our property taxes, money for Joseph's orthodontia, miscellaneous medical bills, our insurance premiums, CHRISTMAS...Money for a new insulin pump.That's right, Joseph's current pump will soon be out of warranty-- and given our history, there's no way we can afford to be without a warranty.

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-5399238163865081262008-11-24T11:12:00.002-06:002008-11-24T11:20:31.655-06:00

I lean back and stretch, before glancing at the time in the lower right corner of the computer screen.11:35 AMJoseph should have called by now to confirm his lunch bolus.Standing up, I stretch again-- then walk upstairs to the kitchen, drop into a seat at the counter and slide Joseph's bright yellow and green logbook in front of me.Hmmm.... 155 before breakfast-- that means the spike will be a

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-69990104731703967402008-11-14T09:25:00.004-06:002008-11-18T17:50:28.279-06:00

In honor of World Diabetes Day, and because this year's theme is again "Diabetes in Children and Adolescents," I'm going to step aside and let my son do the talking:

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-57251429320980443042008-11-09T15:36:00.002-06:002008-11-09T16:57:07.250-06:00

Back in 2005, when I wrote my first D-Blog Day post, I was a part of a small, but passionate group of people determined to tell our stories, to reach out-- to connect with others affected by diabetes.And now, just three years later, we are hundreds strong-- and still growing.Wow.Sometimes it just blows me away, how rapidly this community has become a source of support for thousands.A force for

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-20591739687894944202008-10-22T20:53:00.006-05:002008-10-22T21:18:10.180-05:00

"I can't believe it-- we're actually gonna see the Red Sox play tonight!""Mom, we should just get cable," Joseph says with a sly grin, "then we can see them anytime we want.""No."That's all I say. Because I don't feel like explaining yet again that if we had cable TV, we'd be a family of lab rats-- spinning endlessly through all of those channels...Nope, I'm not going there.We're having dinner in

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-48909219484292305402008-10-01T19:29:00.005-05:002008-11-11T11:47:46.859-06:00

Please watch....... and vote.

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-45727588953290543842008-09-25T11:03:00.001-05:002008-09-25T11:06:29.951-05:00

Taking a seat in the common room, opposite Joseph's cabin nurse -- a woman with wavy brown hair who looks to be about my age -- I'm not nervous at all.Determined, is more like it.We start out talking about basal rates and insulin-to-carb ratios; corrections and the timing of set changes.And then, I take a deep breath."Now, I'm sure you're aware that Joseph needs to be checked at both midnight

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-80914683472521863802008-09-18T16:53:00.001-05:002009-08-14T10:43:35.113-05:00

So yes, I really am back.Honest.I'm just trying to figure out where to start.You see, part of me feels that by writing about the present, I'm giving short shrift to the best summer we've had in years.I never wrote about all the summer baseball-- or those 15 amazing days out east bonding with my siblings and their kids.Or the swimming, fishing, and quirky fun we had in northern Wisconsin with

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-79865435556246904702008-09-08T11:06:00.005-05:002008-09-08T11:11:47.111-05:00

First.I am so sorry to have left you all hanging-- we're here, and we're fine.I think.So much has happened since my last post, I don't quite know where to start.I guess an explanation for the silence might be the best place.Now, I could just say I haven't posted because we've been busy -- DANG busy -- with multiple trips out of town, beautiful weather, preparations for school...All true.But

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-11647601428492365342008-06-12T21:16:00.002-05:002008-06-12T21:36:40.425-05:00

They're home.Thank. God.Half an hour before they got in, I called Ryan's cell phone yet again to see how close they were to home-- I was petrified because the news had said sections of I-94 between here and the Dells were closed due to flooding.They'd warned that road conditions were "extremely dangerous."Ryan's cell didn't answer, so I left a message.I tried again.Several times.I called Joseph's

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-71073947390833129962008-06-12T18:25:00.002-05:002008-06-12T18:29:01.134-05:00

I'm sitting in my basement with Evan.The tornado siren went off about 45 minutes ago; there've been at least three confirmed touch downs in the area.Along with "hen's egg" sized hail, torrential rains, and 80 mile an hour winds.According to the news, at least three more "tornadic" storm cells are heading toward us.Right now, Ryan and Joseph are on the interstate just outside of the Dells --

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-66942150777616191562008-06-12T10:51:00.002-05:002008-12-09T18:25:54.077-06:00

He's gonna be fine.That's what I keep telling myself, over and over.He'll have a blast.But, I can't get rid of the gnawing in my stomach-- and I cannot stop thinking about all the things that could go wrong.What if he's low while he's at the top of a rollercoaster?That place is so big-- what if he can't find Ryan?They'll be in the Dells, where a storm is headed-- where there'd been massive

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-7168455586458443162008-06-08T18:12:00.005-05:002008-12-09T18:25:55.107-06:00

Okay, seems I've been tagged for a meme by Penny and Lisa, and (as usual) am very late getting to it.(Sorry, ladies.)The rules are as follows:I must write a post listing 10 weird, random, facts, habits or goals about myself then choose six people to be tagged, list their names and why I tagged them.All righty, then-- here we go:#1. I'm the last to finish eating at every meal-- even if I don't do

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-70154435753165098402008-05-28T13:39:00.002-05:002008-05-28T13:52:08.468-05:00

Sitting next to Joseph on a bench painted like a black and white spotted cow, my mind is racing.We've worked so hard... the testing, adjusting, the basal rate changes... so many long nights...It has to have come down.A knock at the door, and into the exam room steps a young woman with wavy blond hair and a slightly nervous smile.A resident."Hello, Dr. C wanted me to meet with you before she

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-1896747453903971832008-05-07T09:57:00.001-05:002009-08-14T10:43:35.114-05:00

Yesterday it dawned on me that I hadn't posted in three weeks.Yikers!What the heck's goin' on over here?Well, the short answer is:We've been outside.The slightly longer answer...I've been mulching and tending to my garden; Joseph started baseball-- and is again a pitching monster; Evan learned how to pump her legs and swing (a moment of pure joy, by the way), and we've been playing a lot of

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-70571297583445369892008-04-14T20:29:00.005-05:002008-12-09T18:25:55.212-06:00

For more than three years I've posted about our experience living with Type 1 diabetes.About the incessant highs, the dangerous lows; about the long nights and the early mornings.And I've come clean about the fear.Today, I'm just tired-- and more than a little hoarse.Even so, today is too important a day not to post.Because the voices of those living with Type 1 diabetes far too often go unheard

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-80284222148715451642008-04-04T07:46:00.004-05:002008-04-04T08:05:26.430-05:00

I'm lying in bed looking up at the ceiling-- only I can't see the ceiling because the room is pitch black.All right.He was crashing down at 11 o'clock, but two glucose tabs pulled him up 15 minutes later-- to 132. Then he ate some cheese crackers...That ought to hold him.I roll over on my side.He's got no insulin on board, and his basal rate is pulled back 30% for the next couple hours.He should

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-76621252950661857812008-03-25T22:35:00.002-05:002008-03-25T22:48:36.745-05:00

         Joy           Pain             Confusion               Understanding                  DeterminationRepeat.----------------------------------------------------------------------------Thanks to Nicole for the tag.Rules for this interesting little meme are as follows:1) Write your own six word memoir; 2) Post it on your blog and include a visual illustration if you’d like; 3) Link to the

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-17021832085641244142008-03-14T07:59:00.001-05:002008-03-14T08:01:38.732-05:00

Today marks the beginning of my fourth year as a diabetes blogger.In my very first post, I said that it was "liberating to think that I could write something here that might help someone out."Three years later, and I still feel exactly the same.And more.Because soon after writing that first entry, I learned that blogging could open the door to both giving and receiving a tremendous amount of

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-36301006348897234652008-03-12T08:37:00.002-05:002008-03-12T08:41:14.005-05:00

She's smiling.Which seems a little surprising-- given the number handwritten in black ink on that sheet of paper sitting on her desk."Joseph, you've gotten so big!" she says enthusiastically, "I wonder if you can you see over my head now?"Immediately, my son leaps out of his chair.Standing directly in front of her, it's clear that Joseph is now several inches taller than his endocrinologist."Oh

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-6011311323850104882008-03-03T17:47:00.005-06:002008-03-03T18:13:59.301-06:00

My favorite table in any restaurant is one by a window.So I'm glad when Joseph nabs the lone window seat in our favorite bakery.Minutes after settling in, I glance outside at the snow and ice-covered parking lot -- through glass streaked with condensation -- and then immediately take another long sip of my very hot tea.Meanwhile, Joseph -- hands wrapped around a mug of hot chocolate -- continues

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-18934258726947673732008-02-25T16:47:00.008-06:002008-12-09T18:25:55.596-06:00

My daughter is not a closed kid.On the contrary, Evan is pretty darn good at sharing her emotions, her ideas-- often in amazing detail.But.There are these times -- for about an hour on most days -- when she wants to be by herself."To do a story," as she puts it.Sometimes these stories involve costume changes, elaborate sets and many props.But more often she'll just sit, still and quiet -- as

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-18703126845578250362008-02-21T09:38:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:25:56.755-06:00

It's everywhere.Slick and black under snow-covered streets. Dangling precariously from countless eves.Glittering on every branch, on every trunk of every tree.Like jewels.And the sound.With each gust -- each movement of those ice-covered limbs -- comes an unexpected, vaguely familiar sound."Snap, crackle, pop..."That's right.Exactly like Rice Krispies.(A very big bowl of Rice Krispies.)The storm

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-42043150035538559612008-02-14T08:25:00.002-06:002008-02-14T08:31:17.155-06:00

I'm sitting at the counter, entering Joseph's bg in his log book-- his sugar is just flying down.No surprise-- it was a gym day.As I stare at the curve -- the 100-point drop that took place during our short ride home from school -- Joseph plops down on the seat next to mine. I look up from the log.Nope, not yet-- he's still low.He has a look.A "tell."It's the way he smiles when he's low-- it's

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-20667109697822813792008-02-11T13:59:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:25:59.125-06:00

Evan was sick.Again.She had the awful, fever-inducing, hacking-cough virus that's been spreading amongst the pre-school set like wildfire.Poor kid stayed home all week.Thus, so did I.Yeah.I must say it was a bit too quiet around here (except for all the coughing and nose-blowing, that is) until Wednesday -- when a blizzard pounded our city, dropping an ungodly amount of snow:Mid-afternoon

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-78991557741421289022008-01-30T09:55:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:25:59.674-06:00

Anyone recall this post?The one in which I share the news that (according to Joseph's orthodontist) my son will likely need major corrective surgery on his jaw at around age twenty.Well.After having detailed records taken -- x-rays, photos, molds of his teeth -- and meeting with two orthodontists, we discovered there's a good chance Joseph will not need surgery down the road.(Thank. God.)However.

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-41304848428898097902008-01-25T19:23:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:25:59.899-06:00

For nearly three weeks, we've hunkered down.First there was the thaw that transformed our local sled hills into slush hills-- and came darn close to leveling our backyard "luge."Immediately following the thaw came a blast of arctic air-- bringing with it many days of brutal, sub-zero temperatures.And more snow.A lot more snow.But sadly, it's been too dang cold to sled.Too cold to do anything

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-44154654457454010702008-01-02T11:42:00.000-06:002008-05-07T13:26:33.466-05:00

Happy New Year!(And a very late Merry Christmas!)And to the many folks who commented on my previous entry:Thank you.Your kind thoughts and wonderful suggestions meant a great deal to all of us.Just looking across the street, at that empty house, still hurts.But the holidays -- along with record snow fall -- have given us some wonderful distractions.There's been much visiting with friends-- and

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-53875996280784211242007-12-20T22:40:00.002-06:002009-08-14T10:43:35.114-05:00

Since August -- when we first heard the news -- I've tried very hard to put it out of my mind-- determined to follow Joseph's lead."Mom," he'd say, "I'm just not gonna think about it until I have to."This week, he had to."It's not fair! It's just not fair!" Joseph cries, tears streaming down his cheeks. "This is worse than getting diabetes!"I know, Bud... I know... "That's all I can say, over

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-30488373149858950252007-12-16T22:49:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:02.967-06:00

And I simply cannot believe it.

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-90004905161656585192007-12-07T18:38:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:26:03.094-06:00

"Hi-- is this Joseph's mom?" asks an unfamiliar voice."Yes," I say into the phone."Ms. Miller, this is Ms. G___ , Joseph's gym teacher."His gym teacher?Wait, Joseph called an hour ago -- right before gym. His blood sugar was only 140, and he had a ton of insulin on board, so I had him cancel the rest of his lunch bolus, and eat a bag of cheese crackers...Suddenly I'm feeling very afraid."Is

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-53658296398593020322007-11-26T10:36:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:26:03.321-06:00

"Hey, I call the wishbone!" Joseph announces-- before anyone takes their first bite of turkey.And then a little more tentatively, "Is that okay?"Everyone is smiling-- and no one objects."Sure," I tell him, "but only if I get a shot at it too.""Mom," he says, eyes rolling, "you'll just wish for a cure for diabetes."We all look at him."I can live with diabetes," he continues, laughing. "No. I'm

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-74992283856597396262007-11-20T23:40:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:26:04.086-06:00

Amylia, Jamie, and Heidi tagged me for the meme that's spreading like wildfire throughout the OC.To participate, one must:Link to the person’s blog who tagged you.Post these rules on your blog.List seven random and/or weird facts about yourselfTag seven random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.Let each person know that they have been tagged by posting a comment on

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-91387740444370489432007-11-14T09:33:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:26:04.393-06:00

He cried, saying that he didn't want to have diabetes."Mom, I'm scared."We held each other, having absolutely no idea what this all meant.I have such mixed feelings today.Excitement-- about all of the attention WORLDWIDE that will be given the disease that invaded my son's body over three years ago.And sadness-- over the fact that Joseph (and so many others) have to live with something that

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-30549321442169667352007-11-09T08:06:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:26:04.559-06:00

Last Sunday.On an unseasonably warm afternoon, I agree to take Joseph and his two new friends (12-year old "G"and his 9-year old brother "R") to an outdoor skateboarding park about 20 minutes from our house.Sure, I've got a boatload of laundry to do, a garden to clear, groceries to buy...But man, it is one beautiful day.So I head out to the backyard to tell Ryan the plan-- and to see if he's all

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-77347805087491952412007-11-05T13:06:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:04.992-06:00

Pulling away from the school, I check the rear view for cars-- and for a glimpse of Joseph's face.He's looking out the window-- his expression, a blank."Honey, so you'll probably have to wear braces-- but it won't be forever. Maybe a year or two-- tops.""I really don't want braces, Mom.""I know, Bud-- but if you need them, we gotta do it. Hey-- remember how that orthodontist we saw a couple of

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-70877768499583360942007-10-31T16:11:00.001-05:002008-12-09T18:26:05.240-06:00

On November 14, 1991, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) organized the very first World Diabetes Day.The goal:Raise awareness about the disease, it's treatment-- and its potentially devastating consequences.To further this cause, the United Nations passed a resolution last December recognizing World Diabetes Day-- making it a"United Nations Day."Every year, the IDF designates a theme

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-13415521685863442562007-10-25T09:58:00.000-05:002008-12-09T18:26:05.503-06:00

The kids are finally in bed.I sit down heavily on the couch, pick up the remote, and hit "rewind."And then listen to the videotape spin loudly back to the beginning.Joseph can just watch the tape tomorrow.It's probably fine.But I can't get that description out of my head-- the one I read earlier on the PBS website that started out sounding good:This Teen Connection will include teens and expert

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-75928525120757380952007-10-20T14:43:00.001-05:002008-12-09T18:26:06.621-06:00

First- thanks.To everyone who continues to come here -- even when I don't show up -- and to those of you who've commented or sent emails checking in.We're all right.I think.Remember how, two posts back I mentioned that a ton was happening and that there were some things I couldn't talk about yet?Well, I can now.Ryan is changing jobs.After teaching Java programming for over 10 years, he's burnt

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-29287206184092773682007-09-29T22:38:00.000-05:002008-12-09T18:26:06.799-06:00

"Mama, Mama, Mama... I want Mama."I turn on the light, bend over, reach down and -- before my hand touches her skin -- feel the heat."Oh, Honey-- you're burning up," I whisper.But she doesn't respond-- she just keeps rolling back and forth, eyes closed tight, moaning."It's all right, Sweetie-- Mama's right here, Mama's right here," I tell her, while gently stroking her forehead, cheeks, and belly

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-50995028211491375672007-09-24T09:14:00.000-05:002008-12-09T18:26:07.553-06:00

I'm almost giddy at the prospect.Really.So, why the long silence?Well, there's been a ton going on-- some of it I can share now, some I can't talk about yet.But I will soon.Anyhow, a couple of weeks ago, Ryan -- who is almost never sick -- had a pretty bad case of "That Dreaded Vomiting Thing."Thankfully, he recovered quickly (albeit seven pounds lighter)-- and (hurray!) neither the kids nor I

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-79653037550721872902007-08-21T10:44:00.000-05:002008-12-09T18:26:07.812-06:00

"Mom," Joseph calls out suddenly from the back seat, as we finally begin the long drive home from camp."I want to be more responsible for my diabetes care.""What do you mean, Bud?""You know, like do my own set changes."I catch a glimpse of his earnest expression in the rearview, and am struck with an odd mixture of pride and sadness."Really? Are you sure you want to do those yourself-- the

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-43620299145888378042007-08-19T19:48:00.001-05:002008-12-09T18:26:08.283-06:00

Some days -- especially on this one -- it doesn't feel like all that long ago that he didn't have this thing.Ryan says he has a hard time remembering. Joseph never talks about it-- the way things were back then.Still, I can't seem to forget.

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-59899404926912473862007-08-16T00:50:00.001-05:002008-12-09T18:26:08.298-06:00

For a moment, I look out across grass and trees and paths that lead to one-story camp buildings and cabins, and -- turning upward -- at a sky so perfectly blue that it doesn't seem real.Then I walk forward and hand my "receipt" to the young blonde woman sitting at the check-in table just inside the campground."I'm here to pick-up my son," I say-- feeling both excited that I'm finally going to see

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-48702111496064190302007-07-29T23:40:00.000-05:002008-12-09T18:26:08.486-06:00

We got home late Thursday night.And as much as I'd love to tell you all about the road trip, I'm gonna have to save that for the next post (maybe the next two posts-- because really, it was that good).In the meantime, we're back in the van, driving the two (relatively) short hours to diabetes camp-- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows wide open on my lap.Still hoarse from reading aloud 524 pages

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-67812910431905374192007-07-11T00:01:00.000-05:002008-12-09T18:26:08.790-06:00

While gearing up for our trip back east-- to my home state of Massachusetts -- we hit a couple of snags that could delay our departure.(More on these "snags" in another post).We're still coming, of course-- just might arrive a day or so later than expected.In the meantime, I'd like to set up a plan to rally with some d-bloggers (and any readers who would like to join us) in the New England

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-89325270053656482602007-07-02T09:01:00.000-05:002008-12-09T18:26:09.918-06:00

Feast your eyes on young Jonathan Bryce:My brand spankin' new nephew.Very soon, I'll get to hold this little guy.And I can not wait.We leave for Massachusetts in just a couple of weeks-- fingers crossed, our van will get us there without incident.And why the the need for crossed fingers?Because yesterday we had an incident.A beautiful, sunny afternoon-- Joseph and I are sitting in front of the

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-46699826369898412792007-06-24T14:52:00.000-05:002008-11-11T11:42:04.010-06:00

Sorry for the long silence.There's so much to tell, but -- with the kids out of school for the summer -- so little time to tell it.I'll do my darndest to post more as soon as I can.In the meantime, here's something that happened just today...------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4:35 in the morning.Bleary eyed, Ryan sits on the floor holding Joseph's

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-16189392182977838962007-06-11T10:19:00.000-05:002007-06-11T11:29:35.955-05:00

Well folks, we finally had that second 504 eligibility meeting-- and I finally have a few moments to tell you about it.Early Friday morning, Ryan and I take seats around a large circular table in the principal's office at Joseph's school. Our advocate sits across from us.The principal (she wasn't a part of our first meeting), the school psychologist (L) and the School District's 504 person (SDP)

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-88136490615463086052007-06-06T17:36:00.000-05:002008-12-09T18:26:09.943-06:00

Last night.My son plays in his 12th baseball game of the season.During the first inning, he struggles on the mound-- walking a couple of batters, letting go a couple of hits.But he keeps it together, allowing only one earned run.(Once back in the dugout, he discovers his blood sugar is dropping fast. He eats a couple of glucose tabs, some peanut butter crackers.)Over the next two innings, he gets

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-45748650597740001582007-05-28T23:14:00.001-05:002007-06-11T14:27:10.663-05:00

Two months ago I wrote a post about our efforts to get a 504 plan put into place for Joseph.Well, I finally had the 504 meeting (on May 8th) with Joseph's teacher, school nurse and school psychologist. The next day, our team's evaluation and 504 plan were submitted to the School District.I thought we were all set.Until last Tuesday-- when I received an email informing me that the School

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-72104636135054246132007-05-22T10:43:00.001-05:002008-12-09T18:26:09.990-06:00

This happened almost three weeks ago -- in the midst of all that eye business.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Leaning over, I whisper:"Honey, it's time for you to wake up."A low sigh."C'mon, Sweetie-- you've got school today," I say while gently stroking a warm, slightly damp cheek.That's when I smell it."Honey, Honey-- wake up."Eyelids flutter,

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-54077807500436231612007-05-18T11:00:00.000-05:002008-12-09T18:26:10.306-06:00

Every time I step into a doctor's office these days-- whether it's about me or one of my kids -- it feels like I'm stuck playing this horrible game yet again.A six-chambered cylinder -- loaded with one deadly (or potentially maiming) round -- is spun.And the damn thing doesn't stop spinning for hours, days, weeks-- sometimes months.Thankfully, the chamber has always been empty.So, yes-- I win

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-58761414401638858012007-05-17T09:19:00.001-05:002008-12-09T18:26:11.274-06:00

So much, in fact, that I've had no time to post about it.In short, there's been:The run-up to, and subsequent, 504 meeting (Man, was this ever grist-- I'm still shaking my head over this one... )Middle. School. Mania. (After many school vists, phone calls, orientations -- and much, much agonizing -- we've finally made a decision. And folks, Joseph will not be going to the school I wrote about

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-58187300640752038712007-05-03T17:20:00.000-05:002007-05-03T17:43:25.109-05:00

First, sorry for the insanely late update, but a couple of other things -- extremely upsetting things -- kept me away from the blog.And seriously upped my already through-the-roof stress level.(More on those "other things" in a later post.)So let's get down to it.The eyes.Well, there's no mistake-- I got me some narrow angles.And yes, I will likely need to have laser surgery...Late Tuesday

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-40076911686545615782007-04-30T15:57:00.001-05:002007-04-30T16:21:53.725-05:00

I've been having some headaches lately.And well, my eyes have been buggin' me.A lot.So I call the eye doctor's office on Friday and tell them I think I might be having some trouble with my new eyeglass prescription.I also mention the optic nerve swelling that they discovered at my last visit -- a month and a half ago.A few hours later, I'm sitting in an exam chair-- face forward, chin and

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-20110690884923147502007-04-25T15:01:00.001-05:002008-12-09T18:26:12.101-06:00

Three weeks ago, we were in Florida.And I can't think of a time in the last two and a half years when my son had a greater sense of pure freedom.It was the ocean, really.He spent hours each day playing in the surf-- and trying to "skim" board along its edge.Absolutely determined to learn how to do this thing...... the whole time, no pump, no infusion site (they didn't like the salt water).No

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-32827992422818346842007-04-16T11:29:00.000-05:002007-04-17T10:42:55.196-05:00

"Seriously, I don't have one single strand of gray hair," she tells me."And you've got all those curls now too," I say.We both laugh."It's weird how it all came back curly-- and I've got a ton of it," she says, "more than before.""Indeed. After everything you've gone through-- ya end up with this fabulous head of hair."Again, we're laughing-- the big, belly kind that brings tears.Her doc thinks

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-81186634314930887722007-04-10T23:58:00.001-05:002008-12-09T18:26:12.384-06:00

I've been a very bad blogger of late.Which is kind of sad because there's been plenty of grist.In fact, I'd love to just let loose right now.But in this moment, I can't stop thinking about Brazil.Earlier tonight my phone rang-- a very excited friend informed me that a piece about type 1 diabetes was on the NBC Nightly News.I tuned in just in time to see a young girl give herself an insulin

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-70790791772805095812007-03-28T15:27:00.001-05:002007-03-28T16:03:27.298-05:00

My son.First off-- thank you to everyone who commented on my previous post.Armed with all of your excellent suggestions and many words of encouragement-- I sent off the following email to the school psychologist (whom I've discovered is the on-site coordinator for 504s):L____,Could you give me an update on the status of my son's 504 plan? Did you receive the paperwork I signed and sent back to

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-18984566389731774372007-03-26T07:57:00.001-05:002007-06-11T14:27:19.958-05:00

It dawns on me that I haven't heard anything about Joseph's 504 plan in nearly three weeks.(Not since signing and sending back the consent for evaluation and medical release forms.)So I call his teacher."Sandra, I heard something just this morning," she tells me. "There was a meeting with the principal today. Now I wasn't there, but I was told that Joseph's name came up toward the end. Seems

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-18985095530478626682007-03-21T10:28:00.001-05:002008-12-09T18:26:12.946-06:00

Hey, I'm still here.And I'm no longer completely freaked out by my not-so-good eye appointment.Though I can't say I'm not a little scared-- sometimes a bit more than a little.Just not so damned freaked.Anyhow, as a number of you wisely suggested, I did stay away from Google.At least initially.You see, a couple of days after writing my last post, I confirmed that there is indeed a history of

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-83392039932447057372007-03-10T09:13:00.001-06:002007-03-10T09:17:42.643-06:00

Yesterday morning.Walking into my eye doctor appointment, I have only one concern-- getting out in time to pick up Evan from her preschool class at the Y.So naturally, after taking a seat in the exam chair, I ask the technician:"Do you need to dilate my pupils this visit?""Yes, we do."Dang! However, when I explain why I need to leave in an hour, she says:"No problem, we'll have you done in

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-27092350415665068682007-03-08T09:03:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:13.579-06:00

"Mom, I feel low.""Okay, Bud-- let's see where you're at."Joseph washes his hands, dries them on a dish towel, and picks up his meter.A "beep" and then -- 66"Should I take two, Mom?""Yup-- and why don't you just disconnect from your pump. We need to do a set change anyway... "While I go collect the necessary supplies, Joseph sets his insulin pump on the kitchen counter, pulls up a chair and

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-49222071118412203452007-03-01T09:23:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:26:14.829-06:00

As most of you know, we midwesterners got smacked with (not one, but) two major snowstorms last weekend.The result?Massive amounts of heavy, wet, drifting snow.Sounds awful, doesn't it?Well people, my kids could not have been happier.You see, whenever we got snow this winter, bitterly cold temperatures kept it light and powdery.Fine if you're into skiing-- but if you like to throw snowballs, or

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-37932684270227319512007-02-22T10:53:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:26:15.082-06:00

I'm walking down an unfamiliar urban street, trying to find my way home. Every once in a while, a car passes.A small, brown and white dog with the face of a pitbull is following me.I look up and down the street-- hoping its owner is nearby.But there's no one else.Just me and this dog-- who walks behind me, head down, letting go a low, menacing growl.Quickly, I cross to the other side of the

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-84670582735610533892007-02-15T12:02:00.000-06:002007-02-15T16:47:58.636-06:00

It's funny how sometimes you just can't find words. No matter how hard you try.That's been me over the past week. Maybe it's because this disease is suddenly feeling more relentless of late.The highs, the lows-- they continue.And the exhaustion, too.I realize I'm not alone-- thus, even writing this has me feeling somewhat sheepish.So I'm just gonna launch into something more specific-- and

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-63463178537792757472007-02-08T00:40:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:26:15.303-06:00

"It's just gonna be a scene," Ryan says with a devilish grin.I look at him, doubtful at first-- but then I imagine how blown away Joseph will be when he opens this gift on Christmas day.When he sees the tickets.And really, it would be one helluva lark."All right. Let's do it."So here I am -- two months later -- sitting in a crowded arena, flanked by my husband and son.Directly in front of us --

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-34003815055712485852007-02-01T09:53:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:15.767-06:00

I'm sitting in front of the laptop doing some late-night blog surfing, when I hear several loud, insistent "meows."Looking down on the floor, I see that Tim has decided to join me.I guess he can't sleep either."Why aren't you upstairs bonding with Joseph, you little bugger?"Tim looks up at me with those big eyes of his, and meows again, pleadingly."Oh, all right... come here."I shift in my chair

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-78018680988304699012007-01-29T10:46:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:15.870-06:00

Bleary eyed, I make my way across the dark bedroom, bend over, and switch on the small lamp next to Joseph's bed.I pause a moment, then look hopefully at my sleeping son as he lay curled on his side, one hand resting by his head.Reaching down, I move my hand across his forehead and down the sides of his pale face-- gently pushing aside several strands of damp hair.Damn.Quickly, I slide the meter

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-73192796169618888012007-01-24T18:37:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:16.070-06:00

We're bonding, that's what.After months of big brown-eyed-begging...So many adorable photos...And yes, my own longing for a feline friend...We finally took the plunge.His name?Well, he was dubbed "Reno" at the shelter.But we call him . . . Tim.(aka "The Enchanter")We brought him home late Saturday.He'd been at the shelter for a month-- before that, living on the street as a stray.The kids and I

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-55054961619795795882007-01-17T23:25:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:16.081-06:00

Joseph and I move through the revolving door together, spilling out into the bitter cold.We walk forward a few paces, and then stop-- resting our elbows on the building's stone railing.Below and in front of us is an expanse of frozen, brown grass and leafless trees. Just beyond that, a busy downtown street.Ryan and Evan are still inside."You cold, Bud?""Nah, I'm fine. But I think Dad's gonna be

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-38622650632241228542007-01-13T11:16:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:16.261-06:00

"If you want your kids to eat, have them bring a bag lunch," offers the principal of H middle school–- then pauses, as we all stare at him."Look, we've got over 250 sixth graders comin' into the cafeteria and only two lunch lines-- and they move real slow. There's just too many choices."Though," he says with a laugh, "most of the kids end up eating three slices of pizza or a pile of french fries.

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-28698186220582625402007-01-05T00:03:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:26:16.416-06:00

I sit down and begin typing the acceptance note:Thanks to everyone who voted for A Shot in the Dark.Hmmm... I'm so dang flattered... don't know what to say.“Mom. Mom," Evan calls, grabbing hold of my left leg."Look what I did... Dad’s work card is inside of here.”She hands me an envelope containing Ryan’s pay stub-- now covered with drawings of little stick people.“Okay, Honey– I just need to

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-13088985901059253222007-01-02T11:48:00.000-06:002007-01-02T11:53:47.453-06:00

Last night I couldn't sleep. And sadly, I couldn't write either.The mind was racing a little too fast-- just couldn't grab hold of anything.Anyhow, while checking in on a few blogs I came across the "Year in Review" meme over at Kerri's place. Then saw it again at Rachel's.Since the kids are entering their second full week of vacation (Read: little time to think, let alone post) and I felt the

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-55849396069776974662006-12-29T23:17:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:16.715-06:00

Okay, so we're all still alive.And, we've had no more "initially scary, but ultimately just-plain-odd" ailments. (Hurray!!)Instead, we have had:A visit from Gramma and the baking of festive cookies...The stray chat with an old friend...The opening of gifts...The subsequent wearing of gifts...And really, just loads of gratitude that we're all still healthy and happy.I hope you all are feeling

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11856564.post-87005069251393572062006-12-21T21:22:00.001-06:002008-12-09T18:26:16.965-06:00

On Monday, Evan's doctor told us that most children with Transient Synovitis have it for at least a week-- while some kids recover in just a few days.Well folks, my little girl is some kid.Not only is she able to stand again-- but she's also walking, skipping, jumping and running.All without pain.Again-- Hallelujah!Thanks to everyone who sent positive thoughts our way-- it helped knowing you were

Sandra Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16664436447708465809noreply@blogger.com18