Words for Nicholas

A song because I don't know the words....

2011-07-27T20:19:00.001-07:00

Tonight Nicky asked me to sing (sign) Kenny Loggins', Baby Mine. We often sign songs while dancing to the "Play Room Tunes" Playlist on the ipod. We hadn't recently danced, and had signed that song only once before, so I was surprised that Nicky asked for that song.

I didn't know all the signs, so I ended up changing the words. Maybe I'm just exhausted. Maybe I've been arguing the same obvious political points so often and for so long, that the words came out the way they did. Regardless of the reason,at the end of the song, I did my best to smile, hug him tight and turn the lights out before he saw me with tears in my eyes.

This is how I ended up signing Baby Mine;

"Baby mine, don't cry...Baby mine, wipe your tears...
Rest your head near my heart, never apart, baby mine...

Little Nick, when you play, don't pay attention to what others say.
Let your face sparkle, smile, never cry, baby mine.

All those people who ignore you, would really give anything to know you.

From your head, down to your toes, your small now, Heaven knows...
Your always special to me, always... sweet, baby of mine... "

Standing

2011-05-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

You came from me, but I stand behind you

Leaning on a world that knows, fighting a world, my hearing world of ignorance

A world looking down with a veil of unjustifiable pity.

One veil lifted, one less my own shame for what I hear.

My world is my children, my world is you...

I am your mother, I stand humble, I stand grateful, in the door of your world, your Deaf world.

I am your mother, you are my teacher.

Never believe you are less because your language is different,

There is no limitation in different... only pride.

Your potential is farther than reaching and YOU are worth more than speaking.

Enough Money to Build a Playground...

2011-04-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

Another Nicky Moment

2011-03-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

I have a confession.... I don't offer Nicky his hearing aids as often as I used to. From several times a day, to once a day and now about every other day. He has never said yes. A few days ago, he was watching Sponge Bob with his sister. He looked at me and signed; "Hearing aids?" I was really caught off guard, but obediently started digging through his back pack to find his hearing aids. Of course.....the batteries are dead. By the time I found them, he was no longer interested in wearing them. I set them on top of the tv so that next time...I was prepared.

The very next day, since there was no school and he no longer naps, he wanted to watch Cars while the babies slept. I put it on and reached for his hearing aids. Nicky quickly signed; "NO!" Taken aback I signed: "You don't want to hear the movie?" Nicky, stomping his foot in a very annoyed tone signed:"I can SEE!" Well.....ok then.

If it's not your Birthday, I'm eating your cookies....

2011-03-29T10:21:00.000-07:00

Being about down and laid up lately, I was pleasantly surprised with a basket of cookies...

Nicky comes in to cuddle me and tell me about his day at school...seeing my basket of cookies and signs ;"I want a cookie." I smile and sign "Those are my cookies." Nick: "Your birthday?" Me: "No, my friend gave me to help me feel better." Nick: "I will eat those cookies, not your birthday."

Could Make it a Few Days...

2011-03-13T10:36:00.000-07:00

Turning my voice on. ASL can be an isolating language and the communication barrier is unbearable. I feel totally beaten, frustrated and humbled. What will happen, even after Lent, is turning it off, and using ASL for Nicky, when he is with me or in the room. Hopefully this will eliminate our families developing habit of signed English, encourage fluency and provide a level of continuity for my little man.

Day One Without a Voice...

2011-03-09T18:36:00.000-08:00

I have, in my adult life, always cherished the season of Lent. This year, for my Lenten fast, I will not be speaking for the entire 40 days.

I have been blessed with family and friends patient enough to endure and be supportive of my endeavor. The perspective and deepened understanding while minuscule in comparison are so very important to our Journey with Nicholas. Here's to the first of 40 days of texts, emails and ASL!

My first realization is...Not calling or responding when called, from another room. It is exhausting at best. To stop what I am doing and track down a child....well this counts as at least half of my cardio.

Second...My children, particularly AJ, knows more ASL than even he gives himself credit for. For example, he actually said to me this afternoon (amidst a strictly signed argument betwixt us)without any instruction or prompting from me; "Your using signs I don't know; 'spelling, practice...need'?"

In case it is unclear what happened in this moment, he identified and recognized the signs, whilst insisting he could not and did not. Of course immediately thereafter realizing that he was in fact understanding me, our altercation ended in giggles!

The most notable experience I had today, was with my sister in law. As she approached the door this morning I thought to myself; "Does she know I can't speak? Is she going to be offended and feel ignored?" Realizing that for years now, Nicky has on a daily basis, and sometimes more often than that, thought; "Will this person understand me? Will he/she try and communicate anyway? Am I going to be ignored?"

These things have crossed my mind before, briefly and casually, but I can not describe why or how far off I was. Knowing that, regardless of what I believe to be the depth of my understanding of his experience, I will never come even close to scratching the surface of what it is like to be Nicky.

Dear Nicky,

2011-02-08T20:49:00.001-08:00

If ever there was a time I let you down, I'm sorry. If, when you need it most, I'm not loud enough to make them listen, know that I tried so very hard. For all the times, in the past and future, that I couldn't understand, know that I too shed tears of frustration. I've fought, I'll fight, and I'll never give up, but I'm only me. I'm so very sorry Nicholas, that this existence is filled with corruption and ignorance. I can't protect you from it all. Please never stop believing in the best of intentions, the benefit of the doubt and know that I will always be there to make things right again. I will always and unconditionally, stand by you and take tremendous pride in who you are. "Be who you are, Because those who mind don't matter, and those that matter, don't mind." I love you Nicky, more than you could ever know.

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705366242/Utah-Schools-for-the-Deaf-and-the-Blind-could-take-hit-as-committee-talks-deep-cuts.html
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/home/51193696-76/board-schools-state-blind.html.csp

Readers Help!!!

2011-02-01T20:53:00.000-08:00

This week only, My Coke Rewards is Doubling all Points Donated to Schools. Drink Up! Enter your points online -HERE- and Donate them To Jean Massieu School!!!! Thanks For All You Do!!!

Awe Struck

2011-01-24T18:09:00.000-08:00

I'm so Lucky to have Nicky, I'm so fortunate to have been immersed in opportunity to learn and use this language. I love this language for so many reasons. All the vocabulary, all the lessons even the concepts I struggle with provide the means for communicating with my little one and are therefore, invaluable. From the first time Nicky asked me for 'help' to the first time he asked me to read to him and all that the future holds, words can not express my gratitude, awe and respect for this language.

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Sentence Structure

2011-01-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

Certainly one of my weaker points. It's extremely difficult to dump the English grammar. Nicky has it down...sort of. For example, this afternoon he signed; "Please Potato Blue". Just one of the many moments his expectations of my ASL skills were based on my apparent psychic abilities. Yes psychic, how else could I have possibly known that he meant "Please can I have some Doritos." OK maybe it was obvious....no? Well, I've been learning about contextualization. The context of his request was set in the distribution of after school snacks. The children were gathered in-front of the pantry wherein I have stored an assortment of snack size bags of chips.(Potato)

Unfortunately, often times I can not a ascertain the context of Nick's stories. "White Circle School Me Go" Hmmmm.......I can prod him for the missing pieces, if he's not busy, but the answer is almost always "Know" as in "You know?". One time, after a very excited flurry of the aforementioned type of "Story" In my quest for more information, repeated his last two signs; "Friend" and "Sit"; inquiring, "then what happened?". He looked at me, sighed and the sign he used in reply, I didn't recognize. The story was over, he walked away. Later in the week, I was able to show the elusive sign to a friend at church and found out it meant "Figure it out".

So Far to Go.....

2011-01-18T13:00:00.000-08:00

It's easy for me to become overly confident in my use of ASL, while communicating with a four year old. As I head back to school, in a silent, ASL II classroom, I am humbled. I needed to be humbled. "He who knows everything, has nothing left to learn." With that perspective, I am less confident, and more sponge like. I've never been so excited to learn. Everyday, I feel like I understand a little more. Little Nicholas has been an excellent tutor. He loves telling me I'm wrong. He takes my clumsy hand in his, manipulates my fingers or direction, and beams when I get it right.

I'm exhausted and overwhelmed, but so happy and truly blessed!

MY GREAT IDEA!!!

2010-10-04T20:12:00.000-07:00

Having learned how to read to Nicky, I have yet to master the art of doing so one handed. I need both hands for story telling in ASL.I've tried to hold the book with my chin, my knees and feet. Clipboards have worked for others, and I've not tried it, but I did come up with this:

A simple, small, easel style plate holder, mounted to the wall:

Holds the book, pages open and still easily turned:

Back to School Chaos...

2010-09-24T14:47:00.000-07:00

Well, it would've been nice to be back on the school scene myself. The overly ambitious me is excited to enroll in the Interpreter Program, while the realistic me simply can't coordinate the toddlers for the investigative campus trek. The ambitious me is just that, ambitious, so the Interpreter Program is in the very near, very inevitable future. The realistic me just needs to get on board.

That note aside...School Days School Days Nicky LOVES school! I spent the better part of back to school night trying to learn Nicky's class mates' name signs. This fills in the blanks of our after school conversations, which are often times signed with alot of excited, sloppy signs anyway.

Learning name signs has also proven an invaluable tool, with our most recent, very strange behavioral developments. First, he loses patience quickly with those of us trying desperately to keep up with his growing vocabulary. Nicky will catch our mistakes quickly, correct us, then refuse to communicate further.

He also has random fits of hostility towards those who do not sign. For example; we are blessing the food before Sunday dinner with grandparents. Nicky is signing the prayer, until he notices that I am interpreting for those at the table who do not use ASL. Nicky YELLED out at me and signed that it was his "Turn" and for me to "Stop" and "Wait". I was not allowed to interpret his prayer until he was finished praying. However; If I don't promptly tell him what is being said in his presence, I get my foot stomped on and yelled at until I do. No "Waiting" then!

I know my sweet compassionate little boy is still in there, trying to make sense of all the noise. Toys with sound effects he remembers being able to hear, siblings who abruptly become offended without understanding that he can't hear, his first couple years of language and a new level of communication. I'd shut down at times too. It's frustrating, intimidating and chaotic, but wonderful. I wouldn't change a thing!

A Playground for Nicky

2010-07-14T21:15:00.001-07:00

The list is long of those who have fueled the playground fund-raising train. Everywhere we turn, someone wants to help. Even in this time of economic hardships, we have received so much in well wishing and word spreading. If you haven't spread the word, please do. We've made a lot of progress; but we're still far from our goal. I want so badly for these kids to have a playground, if I have too, I'll stand at the interstate off ramp with a card board sign all summer. Pennies turn into dollars and dollars will soon be swings.

In Cycles

2010-06-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

Well, settling into our new home and new life, its apparent that the behavioral problems we were experiencing run in cycles. The good out weighs the bad by far. He's amazing and we've made great strides in our communication. He's now signing in sentences. For example, today at lunch he told me; "Autumn, table sandwich, no table"

I don't know what any of that meant, but it was an incredible experience for him to master the art of tattling in ASL.

The most amazing accomplishment, by far, was learning to read to my son in ASL. Nick had no interest in allowing me to practice and implement this developing skill. I must have read the Hungry Caterpillar, by myself, about a million a times. There are no words for the way I felt when, for the very first time, Nicky brought me a book and asked me to read to him. The moment was almost four years in the making, but I would've read the Hungry Caterpillar two millions times and it would still be so worth it.

Time Out for Time Out

2010-04-23T19:31:00.001-07:00

I've been told recently that I discipline Nicky in a different manner than his siblings. I don't recognize it as a difference, I recognize it choosing my battles. If I punished Nicky for everything, he would always be in timeout. In fact, timeout is in and of itself a huge struggle. Half way through a screaming, kicking, throwing, running, hitting fiasco, I wonder if he remembers why we are in timeout in the first place.

I'm not one for corporal punishment. Hitting a child seems like a really terrible way to teach a child not to hit or lash out in anger. The language barrier that remains even after all we've accomplished is still pretty significant and exacerbated at times when Nicky refuses to look at me (this would be the same as a child plugging his ears and refusing to acknowledge the firm words and discipline at hand).

UGGGG!

Apologies...

2010-03-23T21:14:00.000-07:00

"I am glad you wrote and I want to sincerely apologize for my comment. I wish I could have taken it back the minute I said it. I am well acquainted with the deaf community, as my sister-in-law is deaf as are a couple of my friends. My family and I are actually learning to sign. I never would have equated the harness and leash with deafness, but I understand your point and I am sorry for my insensitivity. Please accept my apology. I will try harder in the future to bite me tongue and mind my own business. I wish you and your family well."

Offended

2010-03-23T13:12:00.000-07:00

We had our first wonderful day of errands. No tantrums, screaming or stress. The secret of this small success. I caved and bought a harness for Nicky. It was AMAZING and I can't believe I waited so long. Nicky was as happy as can be. We didn't have to fight about holding hands or sitting in the cart with his sister, we just shopped. Nicky was so excited to point at things and show me that he knew the signs, even signs I didn't know he knew, like "Race".

So where does the offense come in? Well, it comes from my forced smile, and feigning that I did not hear a gentleman ask me if he could "Pet my dog.".

This weak attempt at a clever remark came from author who had been invited to promote his new book. Swing and a miss buddy.

I told myself that I would need to get used to the uninformed, baseless opinions of others, and forgive them whether or not offense had been intended, but this should never be interpreted that I won't stand up for my son.

I contacted the store, who will be in touch with the distributor and have sent the following to the author:

"You don't know me, or my family. If you knew us, you might be able to fathom what we've been through and you certainly would not have referred to my child as a "Dog" yesterday at the Salt Lake City Costco.

I'm well aware of the controversy surrounding child harnesses, some parenting groups would say that I lack imagination or that I'm sending the wrong message by using physical force rather than verbal instructions to keep my child safe and close. None of which are as offensive as your comment.

Fortunately, your clever insult very literally fell on deaf ears. That sweet boy, who isn't belittled or demeaned by this safety measure, did not hear you, he won't hear any aspersions like yours ever, though I suspect he will come across much ignorance like yours as he lives his life in silence.

He's a very happy, very active three year old. His sister is 18 months younger than he is, and his little brother is only 9 months old. Should my deaf three year old escape me, as he has before, what good would it do me to call out his name, how should I chase after him? What would you call me if I left my youngest two alone while I chased after him. What if he were lost or worse yet, what if he were to run out into the street or parking lot? What good would my voice be then?

Please learn from that moment and this email, not to be so quick to cast about imbecilic judgment."

Progressive

2010-03-18T19:22:00.000-07:00

Regular audiology is necessary for our little Nicky. Shortly after his hearing loss was pronounced, we as a family accepted it as a part of who he is, aware that progressive means that it will get worse.

Still, when we have audiology appointments wherein a booth test reveals little to no change, I think nothing of it. I don't bank on it, I don't brace for anything else and it doesn't change the way I feel about his hearing loss in general. Four months later, a booth test may reveal another loss and that is the meaning of the word "Progressive".

Today's appointment revealed the latter, a 15 decibel loss, which isn't as bad as the last more drastic loss and may not sound like much, but he doesn't have much left.

The results caught me off guard. It's been two years since the first ABR. Two years ago, I didn't know what a hearing loss would mean for my little man. How could he grow up in a muffled world that would gradually become silent? I was frightened and overwhelmed.

As a family, we quickly realized that this is who our little Nicky is. He is so happy. He has such an amazing bubbly, bright spirit that spills joy all over all the time!

We realized that his quality of life would only suffer if we as a family viewed his hearing loss as a handicap or disability. He his who he is and we are so lucky to have him.

That being said, after our booth test this afternoon, I caught myself trying not to cry. Two years later, still frightened, still frustrated and still overwhelmed. Why can't I sign more by now? Why don't the kids understand how important it is?

This brief period of doubt and insecurity was shut down in moments by none other than my perceptive little Nicky. All afternoon he would show me the sign for "hear", and run towards the front door, like he heard someone or something. He didn't. Does he think we are disappointed because of what he couldn't hear in the sound booth? I still feel physically ill at the thought.

We spent the rest of the day playing school. Nicky was the teacher, his little sister and I were his pupils. Nicky delegated a 'Paint by Number' as we learned about colors and numbers.

We are so blessed to have him, I will never stop striving to be everything that he needs me to be and more. I will make him proud.

Reality

2010-03-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

We've made so much progress in learning to communicate. Leaps and bounds really. I can sit in on meetings and classes where ASL is used exclusively, without a voice interpreter, and understand a great deal of whats being said, or whats going on. I've really been pleased with my progress. Probably even a bit, proud.

I guess I needed a bit of reality.

Nicky and I were playing with Domino's. He jumped up and pointed at something. "OK" I signed "Are you done playing with this?" Nicky nodded affirmatively, "OK, Lets clean up." Nicky shook his head. He glared at me and started sucking his thumb.

Nicky has ALWAYS been incredibly dramatic with his facial expressions. He pointed again. "What?!" I repeated. Nicky glared and pointed firmly, he was starting to get mad. "Let's clean up first" I signed again. He stomped his foot, screamed and pointed. "Show me" I signed desperately . He pointed and yelled again. Still having no idea what he wanted, I signed "Help me clean up first." He stomped, yelled and shook his head 'no'.

I put him in the corner and he really hollered. I set a timer, as I would with my other children, one minute for each year, and after three minutes, touched his shoulder.

He turned around and looked up at me, his eyes red and puffy, his cheeks wet. "Will you help me clean up now?" A fresh, frustrated set of tears spilled over, he just pointed again, and cried, he wasn't even point at anything, just in the general direction of whatever it was he had pointed to earlier.

At this point,Nicky wasn't crying as a three year old throwing a tantrum, he was crying as a little boy wanting to communicate with his mom, and not knowing how. Reality overwhelmed me, I sat down on the ground, he wrapped his little arms around me, and I cried with him, as a mom wanting so badly to communicate with her little boy.

I still don't know what he wanted, but he did help me clean up the Dominos.

For the last two years, I reassured myself over and over again, that while I wasn't a fluent signer, far from it actually, I at least knew Nicky's signs. Everything he knew or was learning, I learned.

Now I want more. I want so badly to be fluent. I want to share everything with my sweet little boy, and I know it won't happen in a day. I would settle for two.

Play Ground Progress

2010-02-25T19:41:00.000-08:00

Are we building a playground? The PTA counted its pennies to buy 100 Dominos Pizza “Where’s the Dough” $10 Gift Cards, 90% of those sales will go towards building the play ground, local Mary Kay Representatives have committed 40% of their sales, Mr. Chem-Dry and All Clean Air Duct Cleaning has donated $20 gift cards and 100% of those sales will go towards building a play ground. I think I can I think I can I think I can I think I can I think I can I think I can !!!!!!

And this would be a "Hic Up"

2010-02-21T14:12:00.000-08:00

My dear readers, It has been kindly brought to my attention that clarification may be necessary with regards to my recent post about Deaf Culture. It was not my intent to convey that it is acceptable to "See Food" while signing with your mouth full. There was no implication, and there never will be, that the deaf deserve less respect or etiquette, than the hearing do.

This blog serves as a record of our families' journey. Any representations made regarding the Deaf, their community or culture, are made based upon our experience. Like any other culture, I'm sure that there are variances and social norms based upon region and generation and any thoughts or input in this regard can be left by comment and are appreciated. Thank you so much for reading!

The Church and ASL..

2010-02-17T11:36:00.000-08:00

The material available in ASL from the Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints, is amazing. As a family, we are so excited to see the Book of Mormon on DVD in ASL, Hymns on DVD, in ASL, a dictionary of terms used by the Church in ASL. It is such a strong testament of the truth of this Church to see its doctrine in so widely available, so accessible and in many languages.

"And I give unto you a commandment that then ye shall teach them unto all men; for they shall be taught unto all nations, kindreds, tongues and people." Doctrine and Covenants 42:58

Nicky's Ridiculous Family

2010-02-13T20:59:00.000-08:00

The "Terrible Twos" within these walls have been double trouble and seemingly endless. Double Trouble as Nicky's red headed, spirited baby sister celebrated her second birthday, and seemingly endless because in June, Nicky turned three. Well, seemingly endless has well served as my penance for my "Terrible Two" assumption...poor poor Nicky.

Read on, my shame presents as follows;

It begins with leaving my office by noon in preparation for the servitude of being a Stay at Home Mom. The twenty hour work week has provided me the opportunity to observe my little Nicky at school. He's always so cute, but at school, well... HE'S an ANGLE!!! Sweet and considerate, no screaming, pinching or throwing. No tantrums. Then it hit me like a ton and a half of bricks... He knows whats going on.

At home we have routines and schedules. We realize that Nicky needs us to communicate with him using ASL, but we communicate with each other in English.

The last several days, our resolve as a family has been to use ASL and English, whether speaking to Nicky or in front of him. Our ASL is far from fluent, but just signing the words we know as they are spoken is enough for Nicky to feel comfortable, included and not foreign among his loved ones.

The results and reward of this resolve have been a night and day difference in Nicky's demeanor. He's that sweet, considerate little pre-schooler I saw in the class room.

I am so sorry my darling baby boy, for not realizing it sooner. I'm sorry for every moment you needed to demand attention, you are such a treasure. We've worked so hard to learn your language, to communicate with you, but somehow I stopped completely listening. I do love you so very very much and I promise to be ready, to listen even when you don't know what your saying, and that you will always know what I am saying.

As imperfect and ridiculous as I am, you for chose me. I'll never take that for granted.

Deaf Mentor Week Three

2010-02-11T22:08:00.000-08:00

We learned today from our wonderful mentor, a handful of new signs...food signs..."want" and "don't want"; We practiced sentence structure; "Banana I want" or "Pizza you like".

The coolest part was learning a little more and delving into deaf culture...

(Put the end of your thumb in the middle of your chest, with your palm parallel to your feet. Your hand nor thumb move, your fingers are straight and spread out, one finger at a time, quickly moves down-think of hitting piano keys -'G' 'F' and 'E'- over and over again, keep your fingers straight. This is a long winded description of the sign for "Cool".)

There's so much still to learn but I wanted to share a couple aspects, points of our lesson that I found kind of cool.

- Deaf Communities are small, tight knit communities.

- Deaf people are famous for "DST," Deaf Standard Time. Not that the Deaf aren't prompt or timely, but events and activities run late as socializing can go on and on.

The hearing are provided social opportunities constantly and in everything we do, at the store, the gym, the bank or wherever the day takes us. Hands free and blue tooth technology for cell phones allow for chatting in the car, and, my favorite use, while doing house work.

The Deaf are not likely to make small talk with a cashier or teller, and signing on a treadmill, well, is nearly as hazardous as using a cell phone to text while driving. So, at a deaf event or activity advantage is taken of the opportunity to visit and chat.

- A Deaf meeting or introduction isn't likely to be the same as an introduction among the hearing. "Where are you from?" (Which may or may not arise from a hearing introduction) "Where did you go to school?" (More often than not the hearing would ask instead "Where do you work? or "What do you do?").

The Deaf community is small enough that no matter where you are, or who you are meeting, you are likely to discover just how small a world it is...

"You went to that School? You must know this person?"

"Yes I do know that person!"

- We learned that the deaf do not "Dance around the issue." They are forthcoming and blunt, right to the point.

ASL is built on a foundation and core of body language. If someone tried to sugar coat a matter, or side step a point, it would be confusing at best. I get it!

I've had the privilege of having experienced this first hand. I had attempted a conversation with one of Nicky's teachers. A simple conversation regarding the number and ages of Nick's siblings,a slow and nervous conversation given my limited, stumbling and clumsy sign language skills.

The following day, when I dropped Nicky off, she didn't try and sign with me, she needed to ask me a question, and jotted it down on piece of paper. She handed me the note quickly, and a pen for my reply.

The point was she needed a quick answer to a quick question, and then needed to direct her attention to the other arriving children and their parents.

It was fun to learn that certain manners, drilled into me and begged of my children, are unnecessary in deaf culture.

For example, say "Excuse me" and "Sorry" if you pass gas, because the deaf, and anyone except the allergic, cold, or otherwise congested, will know you farted.

Say Excuse Me only if your seen burping, or if tradition demands burping as a sign of gratitude and satisfaction and should that be the case, maybe you had better not say "Excuse me", but hit the table hard,stomp your feet, waive your arms and sign "I BURPED". My summary of bodily functions and the deaf culture is as follows:

If your guests, host or hostess can smell it or sees you doing it, all rules of etiquette apply. If your bodily function lacks an olfactory or visual quality, well then the rules of "Don't make a scene" apply.

The cool part of dining among the deaf, Talk with your mouth full. That's right, no reservations. Savor that mouthful of culinary delight and sign away!

AHEM, Should you cough or sneeze (lest you should cough or sneeze the aforementioned half-savored mouthful, upon the table and/or your dining companions) the same rules apply with regards to sparing others of your ick (Cover your mouth!)However, while the aforementioned courtesy applies, you are not likely to be extended a blessing or gesundheit.

Unless your certain that your soul is seeking nasal escape, acclimatizing to, that is getting over yourself and/or dealing with, the omission of gesundheits, is well worth the company, experience and culture.

What's next? Lots and I can't wait!

Building A Playground

2010-01-26T12:44:00.000-08:00

USDB is a statewide school serving over 2000 students throughout Utah. For ten years, Utah Legislature turned down USDB’s request for a permanent building.

A tremendous out pouring of community support, political protests, “USDB Classroom Emergency” letters and emails written to congressmen and legislators fueled the collaborative efforts of the Senate President, the House Chair, the State Board of Education, Superintendent Harrington, Utah State Office of Education, Division of Facilities Construction & Management, the Building Board, and Legislature Coalition for People with Disabilities, SB201 passed for the issuance of bonds for USDB to buy Libby Edwards and the property (1655 E. 3300 South). Hurray!

Now each morning Nicky is dropped off for pre-school at a beautiful new building. Each morning the children gather on the lawn west of the school and stand, run or play in the snow. There is no slide, no jungle gym or tricky bars. Just a broken rusty swing set.

“The playgrounds at elementary schools are the first place where children begin to develop their social skills. Playgrounds are the first place where children learn valuable social skills. Children learn how to associate with others as they share and communicate with each other on the playground equipment. Playgrounds provide a stable starting foundation where bricks are added as they grow and mature.” Associated Content Lion May 19 2009

Now What? USDB now has its own building, but due to budget cuts, these children don’t have a playground.

In 2009, it was reported that Utah Schools for the Deaf would suffer a $2.25 Million Dollar Budget Cut, and later an additional $611,000 cut; totaling $2.86 Million dollars.

It has also been reported that this year’s cuts will be significantly higher, the schools being required to cut an additional $908,500 this fiscal year and to be prepared for a potential cut of $1.13 million next year.

Superintendent Steve Noyce has the following to say in this regard:

“The Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind remain an exemplary school system, on so many counts — including the excellence of students, faculty, and staff. I do believe that we will emerge from the current difficulties ready to continue our progress toward becoming one of the nation’s greatest educational programs for blind, deaf, and deafblind students.”

How do we dare complain when so much has finally been supplied after years of neglect? Everyone is trying their very best, and succeeding in providing for these children, the educators and the staff who nurture them. We don’t complain. We pull together as a community and chip in $1, $5, resources, labor or just a good word. As a community we can build these kids a playground. Make your donation payable to “JMS PTA" be sure to note "JMS Playground" You can mail your check or money order to Jean Massieu School of the Deaf Attn JMS PTA 655 East 3300 South, Salt Lake City, UT, 84106.

My stale brain...

2010-01-25T12:05:00.000-08:00

Kids are amazing. I am so jealous of their spongy little brains!

I was doing my best to communicate with a very sweet woman who was using ASL. I was able to discern that she was asking me if my little boy was my only deaf child, but then she used a sign I was unfamiliar with. Starting from her ear, she moved her thumb across her cheek towards her nose. "I don't know this sign." I replied(a statement I sign often). I then moved my thumb across my cheek in the same manner. She smiled kindly and finger spelled for me "G....I....R....L" I wanted to crawl from the room and hide under a rock. I knew that sign! This would be why I can not stress the importance of not just learning the words, but immersing yourself in the language. I learned the sign for "Girl", but as sliding the inside of the thumb of down along the cheek toward the CHIN. Her pronunciation, if you will, was not from my text book, so I didn't recognize it.

Later that same day, Nicky and his little sister were playing, he noticed something, looked at her and made an "E" with his hand near his ear and brought it down by his chin and up again. Autumn smiled and looked around while I racked my stale brain for what that sign meant. Nicky then pointed at our Deaf Mentor behind me. In less than a week, I had forgotten her signed name, but my two year old remembered it with ease.

I've done quite a bit of research as to exactly what makes this kind of humiliation possible. I found many theories of why as adults we are not as receptive to learning and retaining secondary languages, some theories were far more ridiculous than others and I'm not a linguist, nor do I have the time or attention span to study or form an opinion of each theory.

I did however, find clear justification of my awe:

"On the face of it, it may not seem all that remarkable that children learn language – they all do it, and more or less around the same time when they’re young. But when you think about how difficult it is to learn a second language as an adult (many of us struggle with learning Spanish verb tenses, walking around in earphones endlessly listening to Berlitz tapes), the ease with which young children learn the incredibly complex structure of language is extraordinary....Adults may be able to figure out complex math problems or expound on the theory of relativity, but when it comes to learning language, children are the champs." (Association for Psychological Science Observer Volume 19 Number 9 September 2006)

I've been told at least a dozen times how much easier it would be for my children to learn ASL, than it would be for Daddy and I. However; at this rate, even Daddy has a better grip on it than I do.

What's left...

2010-01-22T09:26:00.000-08:00

When I was told that Nicky's hearing loss was progressive, my interpretation of the word "Progressive" was ongoing, gradually advancing in extent. Three months into settling into Nick's Bilateral Progressive Hearing Loss, we had our first follow up with Primary Children's Rehabilitation Audiologist, and there was very little to no change. His right ear was Severe to profound(about 70-90 HL) his left was Moderate to Severe (about 55–70 dB HL). Three months after that, little to no change. Three months after that had a drastic loss leaving him Severe to profound in both ears. Ongoing, yes, advancing in extent yes, gradually NO.

There are times when Nicky will hold a chiming, beeping or singing toy up to his ear, trying to hear just a little bit of what his brothers and sisters hear. This would tug at your heart strings differently, were it not for the bright smile and constant laughter Nicky brings each day.

Nicky is so happy. I've said this frequently here, and I'll define it now. When we've said our prayers, and he has his blanket, his frog, his train and his puppy, Nicky giggles every night as he goes to sleep. He is so loud and happy every morning, you would think every part of his routine is his favorite part of the day, cereal is exciting, brushing his teeth is an adventure. Picking out his clothes for the day is a game. His joy really is contagious.

HIGH FIVE!!!

2010-01-22T08:56:00.000-08:00

It's not often that Nicky picks up new spoken words these days. His Audiologist's opinion is that at the age of 3, a child's communication center is more or less starving. Because Nicky has such a large ASL vocabulary, his communication center devours signs and doesn't process spoken words as more than background noise.

You can only imagine our surprise when he grasped this concept, whether it was by lip reading, or over heard at just the right pitch and decibel, Nicky spent a great deal of time last night with his hand in the air insisting everyone repeatedly give him "HI FI"!

Our little leader...

2010-01-14T09:40:00.000-08:00

I just got an email from one of Nick's teachers. I'm having a proud parent moment and need to brag...

"We have been seeing Nicky improving a lot ... and he amazes us everyday! He's communicating a lot with us adults and his classmmates. He is always wanting to tell us things. He would always tell me "mommy bring me school." in sign language. He jumps up and "yells" answers during instruction times, and in fact, he is the leader of answers because when he answers teachers' questions, others follow him. He grasps information pretty quickly and he does really impresses me! He's doing great in school and is always happy."

Hurray! Go Nicky!

Deaf Mentor Week Two

2010-01-13T20:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had our second visit from our Deaf Mentor and time really got away from us. We learned all the family signs.Mom, Dad, Sister, Brother, Baby, Grandma, Grandpa, Aunts, Uncles, nieces, nephews and Cousins. The wall in Grandma's Piano Room is almost floor to ceiling with pictures of all six of her children, their spouses and all twenty five of her grandchildren, so we had plenty of faces to practice with!

This is the sign for family!

We played a finding game in the kitchen and learned all sorts of food signs, including "Like" and "Don't Like". Some of the "Don't Like" signs got pretty descriptive with funny faces and gagging noises.

In no time at all, our lesson was over and we were left with instructions to practice, practice and practice. We've made a family goal to always sign, and every night at dinner time, for one hour, it's "Voices Off" time. Wish us luck!

Dearest Nicky,

2010-01-11T18:33:00.000-08:00

Tonight as we said our prayers,while I clumsily stumbled through my limited vocabulary of 'Thank You's, you interrupted me, as you often do, and pointed to the picture of our Savior hanging on your wall.

You are absolutely right my darling little Nick, Thank you Heavenly Father, for Jesus Christ. Nicky, not yet knowing the extent of suffering and sacrifice involved in that, the greatest of gifts, I can only imagine that you are thanking him for the love he has for you.

Nicholas, you have taught us so much in these three years. You have taught me to slow down. You have taught me not to be so desperate when times are hard, that the most optimistic means is not just in seeing the bigger picture, the entire plan, but to look closer, to take in and appreciate the beautiful details and intricacies that stand as proof of the love our Heavenly Father has for us, and the multitude of blessings that are yet to come.

Our First Sunday with the Deaf Ward

2010-01-11T12:51:00.000-08:00

I am so spiritually and emotionally recharged right now. We live in an amazing ward, but last Sunday, for my little Nicky, our family attended the Deaf Ward.

All I can say is wow. It was so intense. We had Relief Society (Priest Hood) first, One very kind woman approached me and offered to voice interpret for me. "YES!" "THANK YOU!" (Jared was not so fortunate and was not able to follow most of the lesson). Everyone used ASL.

Sunday School was equally, if not more incredible. The same, generous interrupter invited us to sit near her and she again voiced the entire lesson, which, while very much appreciated, was almost unnecessary. The teacher did not only sign, he practically emoted the entire lesson.

The songs were so beautiful, very few members used their voices. The songs were all signed. It was amazing.

I have never seen Nicky so happy, at that moment I felt that I had given him what I received as a convert, a little light.

I am ashamed to say that it wasn't until recently I realized that while we had worked so hard to be able to communicate with him, “What do you want to eat?” “Do you like school?” and “Where are your shoes?” etc., we had not made an effort to learn the most important words, “Heavenly Father” “Jesus Christ” “Holy Ghost”. Without having the language to teach the Gospel to my son, I had hoped and prayed that his Heavenly Father had not closed the veil, and perhaps he knew already, more than what I could show him with words.

My words can do no justice to the most spectacular aspect of attending the Deaf Ward, but I will do my best to describe it.

Because the deaf do not generally hear loud/soft or voice inflection, they rely a lot on body movement and facial expression. In fact, in learning sign language, we've been taught that what is said by expression and body language is more important than what is being said with your hands. The deaf really put a lot more emphasis into their body language and expressions than the hearing do. Their smiles are bigger, their surprise greater, every muscle in their face is always at work.

This being said, take a moment to recall, James E. Faust's 2005 Conference Talk, The Light in Their Eyes. Quoting the Lord he says this “And the light which shineth, which giveth you light, is through him who enlighteneth your eyes, which is the same light that quickeneth your understandings.” Where did that light come from? Again the Lord gives the answer: “I am the true light that lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” The Lord is the true light, “and the Spirit enlighteneth every man through the world, that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit.”

President Faust says “This light shows in our countenances as well as in our eyes.”

You can try to imagine, but can not comprehend the intensity of the “Light” I saw in those members eyes and in their countenances. I felt like each of them could just stand in the street, being there without saying or signing a word, and passers by would just look at them and want the Gospel.

Yesterday, those members shared a little light with me, that will last me all week.

If I had any money..

2010-01-08T12:54:00.000-08:00

I found this sweet video as I desperately searched for a movie for our little boy. There are a handful of movies that have been made in which the actors use ASL, unfortunately none have been made for children. I realize this animation has been difficult, but now, with leaps and bounds being made in CG Animation, wouldn't it be easier? I honestly don't know enough about the subject to write much in depth, but what I do know, is that for Nicky, learning to read is around the corner, reading subtitles, well the day will come soon enough, and until then, we will just watch the same movies over and over again, he seems to like knowing what will happen next.

Our Deaf Mentor

2010-01-06T10:56:00.000-08:00

Hurray! Hurray! She's Finally Here! We're Finally In! Today we had our first meeting with Emma our Deaf Mentor. I was so nervous and excited. Emma is deaf, and I was a little worried about one-on-one without an interpreter but she made us all feel so confident with the signs we knew, and explained the signs we didn't (we used a lot of finger spelling).

This is a huge mile stone for us and in understanding American Sign Language and the Deaf Community. I realize that I know a lot of words, but I am so far from knowing the language. Being so much closer means a lot to our family and to Nicholas.

A Dog Blog

2009-11-18T13:58:00.000-08:00

We are dog people. We are looking forward to the day when the right dog finds our family. I am writing today, a tribute to a little terrier, whose fence borders the School for the Deaf and its playground. Every morning this little dog runs the length of that fence, back and forth, back and forth over and over again, barking his little heart out at the children as the play and gather before school starts. I imagine it’s the highlight of his day. I also imagine that this little canine would be devastated to learn that his vociferous efforts are all for not, as none of these children can hear his incessant demand that he and his territory be acknowledged

A random thought I know. However, having brightened my morning and bringing a smile, I thought the very least I could do in return, is blog for the dog.

Pre School

2009-08-12T10:40:00.000-07:00

Nicky will be attending Utah Schools for the Deaf's Jean Massieu (JMS) Our Parent Infant Program Teacher brought us to a couple of different schools and different programs for Nicholas and children who are deaf or hard of hearing. We visited classes in the Granite School District program which focuses a great deal on speech. The Granite class rooms had children at varying levels of communication skills and abilities. When we visited JMS, the classroom was so inviting, the teacher was so patient with my questions and the kids were signing the Speckled Frog song and learning about tadpoles. I instantly loved the environment, the teachers and the students. JMS views ASL and written English as equally important and offers kind of a Bilingual program of the two. I chose this option for Nicholas because when he looks back at this time, when we are all learning doing the best we can, I want him to know it was more growth than adjustment. I am proud of him, I don't view his hearing loss as a disability and I am grateful for the opportunity our family has to integrate into such a wonderful community.

The Call

2009-04-28T13:59:00.000-07:00

Dr. Park left us a message today to have him paged, even after hours, to discuss Nicky's test results. With my heart in my throat, I called. The results for an autoimmune deficiency were inconclusive. Dr. Parks is still confident that this is the most likely cause for Nicky's hearing loss. An autoimmune deficiency would mean that Nick's immune system is attacking his hearing. This can be suppressed and his hearing possibly stabilized with steroid therapy. Nicky is so tiny, and the list of side effects is so long and dangerous for our brave little guy. We are going to follow up with a rhuemetologist and make an informed, educated decision about what's best for Nicky. Whether we should attempt to stabilize his hearing loss and maintain his ability to benefit from the hearing aides, or accept the hearing loss and benefit from a lifestyle unaffected by steroids and their side effects? Whatever we decide, it will be based upon a tremendous amount of research, and an even greater amount of prayer.

Prayers for Nicky

2009-04-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

Because of his recent and drastic hearing loss, Nick’s specialist at Primary Children’s Hospital decided to run one more series of complicated blood tests. This time they are looking for an Autoimmune Disease and/or Rheumatoid Factor. I don’t know what this means for Nicky. We have been so confident that his quality of life will not suffer because of his hearing loss, but some of the Autoimmune Diseases they are looking for can cause arthritis or kidney problems. The information I’ve been able to find on the association of Autoimmune Diseases and hearing loss is limited and the entire prospect is scary enough to keep us up at night, but, if there is one thing in our lifetime that has been reiterated over and over again, it’s the power of prayer. We have faith that regardless of what the tests may or may not reveal, we are not alone in this.

2009-02-23T14:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was our big day. Under general anesthesia, specialist at Primary Children’s Hospital performed the Auditory Brainstem Response test. Nicki was sleepy and feverish when we arrived, so we waited to make sure the fever wouldn’t worsen once he was anesthetized. He woke up a little slower than they would’ve liked, and needed just a little oxygen, but over all, did very well. The results confirmed the audiologist findings that there has been another significant hearing loss, for a total of 70db on both sides now. Where in November he had a Severe to Profound hearing loss on one side, and a Moderate to Severe hearing loss on the other, now both sides have suffered a Severe to Profound loss.

Nicki woke up this morning smiling with excitement for a new day, just as he has every other morning. So we will fashion our feelings about the hearing loss after Nick’s and know that his quality of life, and his ability to touch all our lives, will not suffer because of his hearing loss.

2009-02-16T14:09:00.000-08:00

Well, two separate booth tests indicate that there has been another significant loss since his last test in November.

When the audiologist performs a booth test, Nick sits in a soundproof room which is divided into two halves separated by a window. Nicky sits in one half, and the audiologist is in the other half. Nicky wears headphones and the audiologist plays recorded frequencies or sound tones at different volumes or levels, testing each ear separately. The sounds are made louder or softer until Nicky responds.

To confirm these results, the audiologist has ordered another sedated ABR (Auditory Brainstem Response). During an ABR, tiny earphones are placed in Nick's ear canals. Click-type sounds are introduced through the earphones, and electrodes measure the hearing nerve's response to the sounds.

We did a sedated ABR this time last year. Nick was given an oral sedative and took a nap while the test was performed. This time, the audiologist will consult with the ENT regarding the urgency of performing the ABR given the significant loss in such a short period of time. If they decide to perform the ABR right away, Nick will actually be anesthetized, otherwise we'll wait until April for a sedated ABR.

This was expected with his original diagnosis last year. We were told Nick had suffered a severe to profound hearing loss and no one was able to explain the cause, whether we could expect it to get worse and if it did get worse, how long before he wouldn't be able to hear at all. These questions remain unanswered, and how it could drop so significantly since November is also a mystery.

Nicky however, is still his happy, healthy and active self. Everyone seems to comment on how hard it is not to smile when he is in the room. We are blessed!

2008-09-17T14:10:00.000-07:00

I've said before that we would not put Nick through anymore tests to diagnose the cause of his hearing loss. However, Primary Children's offered us a "Hearing Clinic", a full day of specialists and diagnostics that would provide us with at a minimum a prognosis. With hope and patience, we participated. At the end of a very full day, with a very tired little boy, we waited... The panel diagnosis was pretty much a shrug of the shoulders. We still don't know the cause or reason behind Nick's hearing loss, we don't know if it will ultimately be profound, we don't know anything!

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, these tests are so hard on Nick and they will not change the fact that he can't hear. We are done. Of course will keep track of the hearing loss via his audiologist, but no more diagnostic tests. No more sedation, no more scans. He's been through enough.

He had been through enough a long time ago. Nicky is such a special little guy. He warms the heart of everyone who meets him. There is a much bigger plan in place than mine. I'm letting go of the controls and we'll just have to wait and see where Nicky takes us!

WHAT!???

2008-07-07T14:12:00.000-07:00

We all know the huge impact the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (USDB) has had on our family. Most of you have heard Jared and I carp about the recent legislative recommendations regarding the school and it's building. The following and very disturbing facts have been sent to parents of USDB Students:

1. USDB is a statewide school serving over 2000 students throughout Utah, 410 of whom are served in self-contained classrooms by teachers specifically trained to work with deaf/hard of hearing, blind/visually impaired and deaf-blind children.

2. Legislature has turned down USDB permanent building requests for 10 years.

3. In the legislative session of '07 USDB was given a used five story office building to house our children and $500,000 for renovations with the assurance it was this or nothing. This was in place of approving a request for an actual school building.

4. USDB made a good faith effort to make do with the scraps that were thrown their way only to learn that a) renovations and bringing the building up to code for a school would cost 1.4 million for renovations to the first floor alone, and b) a school cannot be more than three stories. So, the building and the funds were taken away and not replaced.

5. The building which housed USDB‚s newly expanded ASL/English Bilingual students was due to be demolished this year leaving the school with nowhere to house those 72 day school students grades pre-k through 9th grade.

6. DFCM offered USDB an actual school building in the Salt Lake City school district. It turned out the building was riddled with asbestos and so far from code it would take over 1.5 million to renovate and then another $660,000/yr to lease. DFCM provided a mere $236,000 in one time lease moneys. The rest was to come from cuts in direct services to students.

7. The meetings and negotiations related to finding a building for USDB students have intentionally taken place without the presence of USDB administration being invited or allowed.

8. Leaving USDB again without a home for the children, DFCM delayed and delayed and finally gave up one more office building inappropriate for student use. Again trying to make do and without further recourse as the '08-'09 school year looms, USDB will house these students in another dilapidated old school building on Connor St in Holladay, where the preschool for the Blind and a number of related services staff are presently housed, and move related services and administrators to the office building. Even so, the school on Connor St lacks sufficient space, is extremely run down, and has only one year left on the lease. Additionally, the legislature has allocated only $263,000 of one time lease money that can be used to retrofit and upgrade both buildings. After the Conner St lease expires in Spring 2009, where will DFCM shove this group of children next?

9. DFCM has successfully marginalized school children whose sensory impairments appear to make them less worthy citizens than other 'normal' school children who have buildings and equipment and green space and mascots and identity. Our children have been relocated from facility to facility, in some cases annually, in order to sweep them under the rug and DFCM is held accountable to nobody!

10. The State of Utah does not care about the education of the blind and deaf children whose parents live, pay taxes and vote within its borders. Or at least it would seem so from the treatment of DFCM. When will all children matter in Utah? I guess No Child Left Behind only means test scores. When will legislative leadership step up and make this a priority so that we can have the funds to build, or so that DFCM will get us an educational facility or contract with a local school district who understands our needs?

What can you do for Nick and all the other children who rely on USDB? Please write your congress men, your legislator and/ or the following legislators who can choose to play a strong role in correcting this situation: Sen. Curtis Bramble, Rep. Gregory Hughes, Sen. Howard Stephenson, Sen. Margaret Dayton, Sen. Lyle Hillyard, Sen. Patricia Jones, Sen. Mark Madsen. Sen. Ross Romero, Sen. Karen Mayne, Rep. Sylvia Anderson, Rep. Brad Dee, Rep Craig Frank, Rep. James Gowans, Rep. Kory Holdaway, Rep. Brad Last, Rep. Rebecca Lockhart, Rep. Ronda Menlove, Rep. Michael Morley, Rep. Carol Spackman Moss, Rep. LaWanna Shurtliff, Rep. Kenneth Sumsion, Rep. Stephen Urquhart, Rep. Mike Wheatley. Their contact information can be find here for Senators and here for Representatives. Title your email: USDB Classroom Emergency.

When Nicholas was diagnosed with a sever to profound hearing loss, I just didn’t know where to turn. Our ENT recommended we contact the Utah School for the Deaf and the Blind, and that’s all he told us. Without knowing who to talk to or what to talk to them about, I called USDB, “My son was just diagnosed with a sever to profound hearing loss, and will likely soon be completely deaf, what do I do? Who do I talk to?” I was promptly transferred to an audiologist, and have not been lost since. The USDB gave us all the information and resources we could possibly ask for. They lent us Nicky’s first set of hearing aides, and closely monitored his progress. They have sent over a therapist who helps us all communicate through both signs and speech. A huge language barrier has been breached, Nicky can tell me what he needs, and I can tell my little boy that I love him. It might not sound like much to you, but six months ago, I was terrified and overwhelmed with Nick’s diagnosis. Now, he has a vocabulary of about two dozen signs, and has actually spoken three words!

There is a high demand for this kind of specialized teachers, counselors, etc. The Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind has taken the table scraps of DFCM for 10 years, and have only asked for enough to offer Utah’s children with sensory impairments, the same quality education as any unimpaired child.

Since my first encounter with USDB, I have taken comfort knowing that Nicholas’ quality of life will not suffer because of his hearing loss. The quality of his education, and his educational environment shouldn’t suffer either.

Nick's New Hearing Aids

2008-07-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

We love Primary Children's! The staff at the rehab center is phenomenal! Nick got his new hearing aides on Friday, they are the SUMO DM by Oticon, they are digital and designed to maximize speech and control unwanted noise. It was so cute, they came with a little stuffed toy who also wears hearing aides and ALLOT of
information.

Can you imagine going through life in silence, and then having the world explode with noise? Nick is getting better and better at recognizing sound. We play a game with him, when a phone rings, or the clock goes off, we say "I heard that!" and try and find where it came from. He is also starting to mimic sounds, which is a really good sign for developing speech.

Diving in with Nick

2008-06-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

We transferred Nick's treatment and care to Primary Childrens Hospital. They are wonderful! The new ENT is setting us up with a clinic in the hospital that will properly diagnosis Nick's hearing loss and give us a prognosis (i.e. if the loss will become profound). The new audiologist set us and our insurance up with the new hearing aides...they did everything! More surgery is still on the horizon but hopefully not for a few more months. There is a blockage in one tube, but since it's not the season for infection, we can probably wait to remove it.

Nick continues to progress with his signs.

The new ones are; train, bird and please. The other signs we've been working on seem to have sunk in at a receptive level, but he still hasn't used them expressively. Our next adventure is choosing a sign name for him, it seems like a bigger deal than trying to name him.

What if he hates it?