Still making us laugh

This past week has been quite eventful.  My mother, Whitney’s grandmother, past away.  She has battled Parkinson’s for 40 plus years.  I am always interested in Whitney’s response to all of life’s changes.  Last night at the viewing, she stood looking at grandma for a few seconds before she realized it was her.  Then she excitedly signed “Grandma”.  Then she touched her face and signed, “cold”.  All of a sudden I see Whitney play “got your nose” with Grandma.  I mean, who does this?  Only Whitney.  When the casket was closed, Whitney had a look of concern and signed, “what is happening with Grandma”?  I couldn’t imagine what she thought about her grandma being put in a box with the lid closed.  I tried to explain that her body has died, but her spirit lives with Jesus.  She finished my sentence, “and with Gabby”.  I think she understands as well as a 9 year old can.

  Last week Whitney had her first Cheer competition.  She did great!  However, before the event, Whitney’s dad told her to do her “rocker hands”.  During the competition, when she was lifted into the air in a split, she whips out her best rocker hands and facial expression.  I was so busy taking pictures that I didn’t notice.  When I got home and pulled up the pics on the computer…there is was.  I couldn’t believe it.  Here’s the picture, I’m sure it will make you smile.

THE CHAMPIONS

Yesterday Whitney performed with the CHAMPIONS, a cheerleading group for children with special needs.  Nine years ago, I would have never thought that this was possible.  After the performance, I couldn't help but stand up, cheer and cry.  This was only a parent show, but I was so proud of her.  Next week will be the first competition in her full uniform.  I was so amazed that she made it through 2 1/2 hours of waiting, practicing and performing in a room with over 500 people and loud music.  With her sensory issues, this was not easy, but she did great.  She has come so far!  Here is our favorite video clip.  Hope it makes you all smile.