Roper's Round Up

Noah

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 02:14:00 +0000

Noah, our baby boy, is doing well. He is starting preschool on Thursday and we are so excited. Praying that the transition into school will go smoothly. He even gets to ride a bus!! He is making great progress with his speech. A lot of the issues we are having are behavioral issues. He can go from being fine one minute to tantrum mode in another. And that can be very emotional and frustrating. We are thankful that we have Connor and Dawsyn. They are Noah's PT's (Play Theapists). They have taught him how to play. Using toys appropriately, his imagination, and keeping him from drifting off into his own "world." I'm grateful that God has blessed Noah with brothers that can help him in those ways. They are 3 peas in a pod. We are 1 week into the gluten/casein free diet. I can't say for sure its helping, but we have a 2 great days so far this week. Praise God!! We were due for a bit of a break. I was able to attend a great Autism Conference last Friday with a couple friends in...

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Connor

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 15:14:00 +0000

Connor started 4th grade. He has the same teacher and class as last year, which I think took away a lot of the beginning of the year jitters. He was very excited to see his best friend Justin as well. (It was really hard to get them together over the summer.) He is very much into reading right now, and I love seeing his face in books. Over the summer we got some of his WASL results from last year and he passed all the parts they took. We were so proud of him. He joined Cub Scouts and we can't wait for meetings to start up after popcorn sales are over. If you want to help Connor with his selling email us for more detail on how you can buy some popcorn!! I thought it would be fun to ask Connor some questions, here is what he had to say: What is one thing you have already learned this year? Learning about the history Washington State. Favorite thing to wear to school? blue sweatpants and his hurley black shirt, NOT together. Favorite thing to do in your free time? Wii (at home)...

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I'm baaaaaaack!

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:42:00 +0000

I'm back!! I decided if I was going to start blogging again and keeping up with our family blog, it needed a makeover...what do you think??? I think it's pretty cute!! So many updates..I'll slowly catch up on everyone over the next couple of days. Hope your still out there reading!! Loves and Blessings!

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Happy Birthday Sabrena!!

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 17:52:00 +0000

Today is the birthday of the most important/beautiful/supportive/awesome woman I know to exist in all eternity. . . my wife! At the moment, she's sleeping soundly because she worked a graveyard last night. She also works at 10pm tonight. This means that she not only works on her birthday - but she works TWICE on her birthday. If you know where she works, go see her and say Happy Birthday! Also give her good b-day tips ;) I remember a time in my life when I thought I had perfectly guarded my heart from letting anyone inside. Almost ten years later I am always amazed at how she managed to get through. But how couldn't she? She's just too amazing of a creation and I'm far too lucky for God to have deemed me worthy for her. I learn new reasons for that daily. SO. . . Happy Birthday Honey I love you!

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Summertime video!

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 19:11:00 +0000

Enjoy some of our summer pictures!

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Connor's 9th birthday! (almost two months ago. . .)

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 01:23:00 +0000

Well, what can I say? I've neglected this awesome family blog when I promised to keep it up while Sabrena is at work. Sorry everybody!!! I hope you are ready for a whirlwind of catching up. There will be a new post going up each day this week starting today with Con's birthday at the Great Wolf Lodge! For Connor's birthday this year, we told him that a present was going to arrive in the mail for him. This was not true. We had in fact, orchestrated a plan for Sabrena, Dawsyn, and myself to pick him from school with his bags all packed and in the trunk and to head for The Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound, WA. I'd never heard of Grand Mound, WA and when we got there, it looked a lot like Rochester to me. As you'll be able to see from the pictures, the place is AMAZING and heaps of fun. Here is a little video slideshow I made. The soundtrack is by Connor's favorite band (and mine - it was mine first), They Might Be Giants. It seemed to fit the occasion, what with my post being so...

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Spirit Week: Connor dressed as his favorite character

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 17:13:00 +0000

Over the next few days I'll be updating posting updates on all that has been going on over the last few weeks. Yikes, we're behind! We've had three birthdays, a baby start walking, a boy ride a bike without training wheels, and a dad who has reached an all-time high weight since becoming a stay-at-home dad/struggling freelance writer who still decided it would be a great idea to take off his shirt at an indoor water park. That last sentance was a run-on purposely but I spelled sentence wrong on accident (I probably should have just corrected it ( now I've also made this sentence too long (dangit, I'm making it worse.))) The last full week at Connor's school was Spirit Week and kids were encouraged to dress according each day's theme. The day Connor looked forward to most was the "Dress as your favorite fictional character" day. I think he looked like a dead ringer for his character but can anyone else guess who Connor dressed up as?

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Here They Go Again

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 23:19:00 +0000

My heart is heavy today for Nate, Tricia and their baby girl. If you have been following my blog you know this is a family I have been following for awhile now and have come to celebrate, cry and pray with/for. Less then a week ago I was so excited to finally hear that sweet family driving home. ALL together. And the excitement I felt knowing that Nate and his girls were all together. Sadly, Tricia is back in the hospital and a lot is going on. Please visit Nate's blog and send your love, prayers, and good thoughts. They all deserve it after EVERYTHING they all have gone through. To the Lawrenson Family: Thanks for being such an inspiration to me, relying on God. Your faith is amazing. In moments of weakness know that we are praying for strength, courage, and that when it feels like it may be too much, remember God will carry you. You have touched many hearts and we are all standing in the gap for you all! Nate, I think your a hero. The love you have for your girls is amazing...

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Update: Urgent Prayer Request

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:11:00 +0000

UPDATE: Sounds like things are looking up and our prayers are being answered. Spencer is remembering the things he wasn't and was only kept over night for observation. He will have a EEG today and if nothing comes up will be sent home. They have no idea why he passed out. Thank you if you read the post below and were praying. I know we all appreciate it. Be Blessed and Praise the Lord!! Sabrena We received a call this morning that our good friend Spencer is in the hospital. Apparently he passed out, hit his head and is not remembering things. I don't have a lot of information at this time, but PLEASE be praying for this sweet family. Spencer has a wife Tammie and sons; Skyler, Drew and Trace. I will keep this updated as I know more. We appreciate you keeping them all lifted up. Sabrena

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Happy birthday Connor!

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Tue, 27 May 2008 05:20:00 +0000

Today was our oldest and wisest son, Connor's birthday. It is amazing to me how big he is. Of course, the fact that he is so incredibly smart, funny, and thoughtful are astoundng too, but mostly I'm amazed at the sheer size of the kid. In all seriousness, I love him so much it scares me. He was my rite of passage into father hood. Nine years ago I had to sink or swim because it was Connor on the line. Not a high score at the arcade or a few bucks lost in a laser tag tournement. Everyday I see him, I thank God that He has not given up on me or let me screw this up somehow. Here is a little message from Sabrena to Connor for this special day. Connor, You're a very special boy and we are very lucky to celebrate you today. I thank God for choosing us as your parents! You're a blessing to our family and we love you so much!! Happy Birthday!

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Awareness and Hope!

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Fri, 23 May 2008 06:19:00 +0000

As most of you know, our youngest Noah Vincent, was diagnosed with PDD-NOS, which is on the Autism spectrum. In hopes of bringing awareness and hopefully one day a reason and cure, we are asking family and friends to join us on July 19th to Walk Now For Autism. Click on Noah's picture to the left, it will take you to our team page where you can join us for our walk or donate. Every penny helps and we will forever be grateful for all donations and support! Our team name is Noah's Ark Angels. We have made a huge goal of 5000.00. It's been a slow start, but everything counts, and we are dedicated to doing what we can. Be apart of the solution! Be the difference! God Bless, The Roper Family

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Dedication, Mother's day and more galore!

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Fri, 23 May 2008 01:21:00 +0000

Mother's day this year was extra special. Gracielyn was dedicated. And to make it extra special our good friends The Brown's shared in the special day with their daughter, Sophie being dedicated as well. They were too cute in their dresses and "talking" to each other during the dedication. Beautiful Blue eyed girl! How Yummy is SHE?? Big princess smiles! I got some pretty sweet gifts. A school made card/poem from Connor with a beautiful picture of a butterfly that he colored. Chase ordered me a Skinit cell phone cover. It's just a sticker that fits on my cell with pictures of him and I and the kids. It is too cute and thoughtful. I also got some tans, so I'm not so pasty white, LOL. My phone with the skinit on: Overall, it was a great day. I am blessed with an amazing family. I am so thankful that God has chosen me as their mommy! Sabrena

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Baby Girl's 1st birthday!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Sat, 10 May 2008 23:37:00 +0000

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY GRACIELYN!!!!! This past year has gone by too quickly. I remember the day Gracie was born like it was yesterday and now it's been a year. She brings such joy to our family and I LOVE having her girlieness around. I'm so thankful to God for choosing me to be her mommy and proud to call her my sweet baby girl. Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Girl. Momma LOVES YOU!

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The Diagnosis.....for now.

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 02:34:00 +0000

On Wednesday, April 9th we went in for the results of Noah's evaluations. We were told that he had a lot of behaviors that look like delays and behaviors that are atypical. Enough of those atypical behaviors brought them to believe PDD-NOS(Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified) best fits Noah as a diagnosis, at this time. PDD-NOS is on the Autism Spectrum. It's seen as the "milder" form of Autism. Although, one symptom may be milder, another may be worse. And we defiantly feel this is Noah's case. He is making great progress and his prognosis is looking good. With this diagnosis we can get him the help he needs and plan to do so in as many ways as possible. We don't want this to be a road block for him in his life. The recommendations for Noah's treatment are: * Birth to 3 services. This would be through the school district. * Once he is 3, which is Aug. have him enrolled in Developmental Preschool. They hope this can be all day. I don't know if our...

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PRAY PRAY PRAY!

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 22:14:00 +0000

It's A GO for Tricia! Be praying for this whole situation. Family traveling to the hospital, nurses, doctors, Nate and most of all Tricia's body to except these lungs. Also, be praying for the family who lost a love one and is giving the gift of life for this dear family. All our love to the Lawrenson family! Sabrena

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My big boys!

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 17:38:00 +0000

"BABE MAGNET" Sabrena

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Updates Galore!

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 16:56:00 +0000

Life has been "off" for lack of a better word lately. It's been hard to keep up with my blog with everything that has been going on so I apologize for the lack of updates and pictures. On the Noah front. He had his longer evaluation on Monday. It went wonderful! He did amazing. He made it through the whole thing and was very compliant. I was disappointed that they didn't get to see the fun temper that he has, but thats o.k. We have an appt for the 9th at 1:00 to discuss the results. Be praying for the results and our hearts. We are prepared to hear either way. At this point I don't know it will make too much of a difference other then programs and such. Connor is getting ready for Spring Break next week. He's been keeping busy playing lots of basketball and spending a lot of time outside. He's been reading a series of books called How to Speak Dragonese. We had conferences last week and he is doing very well. We are proud of him. Dawsyn is enjoying a lot of pretend play. Playing...

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Storm the Heavens, Pray for Tricia.

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 01:59:00 +0000

Late Update: Unfortunately, those lungs were "no good." Tricia is still waiting. Although, I read this morning 4/2 that the transplant team came in with news of another set that may be a match. Check Nate's blog for more updates! Praying these are the ONES!! What a special birthday present it would be for Nate! Our prayers, love, and birthday wishes go out to your family! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ News came in that lungs may be available for Tricia. Visit their blog for more details. Please pray for her and the donor's family. My prayers go out to Nate, Tricia and their baby girl, as well as, their families. I hope this is the news everyone has been waiting for. Rejoicing in the news of giving life, Sabrena

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For Tricia Challenge!

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 18:05:00 +0000

This is late, I have been sick and forgetting to do this and reading my friend, Kim's blog reminded me to do this. This mom gave the Tricia Challenge. Everyone that follows my blog knows about this family, if you don't please visit. Anyways, It was a great idea and I want to follow in doing my own For Tricia List. So, Enjoy! I can't wait for Tricia to experience: Baby girl giggles Dress Up pretty crayon colors all over your walls messy spaghetti and chocolate faces open mouth kisses keeping her from pulling the Christmas tree over hearing "Ma Ma Ma" watching her face light up when daddy gets home from work Dedicating your sweet girl at your church with Nate and your family all standing at your side! There is so many things I can think of, but I wanted to limit it. What is your list? Leave it in the comments!! Sabrena

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Shout Outs!

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 18:30:00 +0000

Since I have that little box on the left telling me who's visiting my page I wanted to give a couple shout outs! HI BECKY!!! Hope you are well and thinking about you! Thanks for always coming and keeping up on us and enjoying my cutie patooties! HI NICHOLE!! Miss you! Call your sister some time. XOXO Anyone else who visits a BIG HELLO from me! Let me know you visit! I love comments! I mean, I think I would since nobody leaves me any!! Sabrena

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PHOTO FRIDAY: My baby boy and baby girl!

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 16:51:00 +0000

Baby boy: Noah Noah's sweet smiles make me melt: Sweet Girl: Gracers 10 months Gracie's latest milestone: Standing!! We have been battling sickness in our house for what feels like FOREVER. I'm the latest victim so it's been hard to keep up my blog lately. Hopefully I'll be better soon. Next Friday will be my BIG BOYS, Connor and Dawsyn. Have a blessed week! Sabrena

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FYI

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Roper) — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 19:11:00 +0000

Over on the right the descriptions under the pictures is my husband's way of being funny. Although, I do think I have one of the CUTEST girls in the world and THE cutest 9 almost 10 month old in the world, some would beg to differ, and I understand that, but you can't blame a father for believing his daughter is the cutest thing in the world, even if he did put too many "n's" at the end of her name. If you haven't read the description about himself that he wrote, that one is pretty spot on as well! (wink wink) Be Blessed with a great week! Sabrena

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Blessed by the ABC's

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 17:59:00 +0000

God is working in Noah's life in incredible ways. I can't put into words the feelings I have witnessing the miracles he is working in Noah. Noah's speech has increased a great deal. He is able to better communicate more needs with us , which has decreased the fits and head banging quite a bit. Recently my best friend told me about a show called Super Why and Word World. They are awesome shows and the boys LOVE them. Noah especially enjoys Super Why. It teaches letter sounds, letters, words, etc. He also has a leap frog letter toy that hangs on the fridge that sings letter songs and tells him the letters, that he also enjoys playing with. We of course read to him as well. Honestly though, it was almost the last thing on my mind to teach him the alphabet, when he can barely tell us with word his needs, although it's getting better like I said. So, last night Noah comes up to me with some of my puffy sticker letters for scrapbooking telling me he wanted "I." After being quite...

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Coughing, fevers, bronchitis, OH MY!

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 23:45:00 +0000

I am SO over this winter. GOOD BYE see you next year. My poor babies are all sick. Connor has bronchitis, Gracie has an ear infection and a bad cough, but her lungs are clear, Dawsyn is going on day 3 with a fever and cough, and Noah an icky cough as well. I took both Connor and Gracie in today and will take Dawsyn and Noah in tomorrow if they are sounding worse to have their lungs checked. Man, we just went through all this in January. I absolutely HATE when my kids are sick. Well, who likes it really when their kids are sick, but I worry so much about something serious being wrong that it wears me out. Not getting any sleep helps that part too. Please keep my precious kiddies in your prayers. That God will heal their little bodies and make them 100%! Day 2 of NO junk is going well so far. Last night was worse then the night before and I almost broke down in tears. Isn't that sad. It wasn't so much not being able to eat candy or ice cream, I just wanted to munch and snack so bad....

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Hi, My name is Sabrena and I'm a sugarholic

noreply@blogger.com (Sabrena) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 23:40:00 +0000

Well, there you have my confession. I am completely and utter addicted to sugar. I LOVE sweets like no other. Along with my great, wonderful and amazing friend Annie, I am on detox day 3, but honestly day 1 for me. I was suppose to start Monday and failed miserably. Was a little better yesterday and so far so good today! I knew I enjoyed junk(mostly chocolate), but good grief I didn't realize how bad it was until last night. Can I just say that I was about to shake to death from trying to keep from running out to my car for some Whoppers I new were out there. I honestly didn't realize it was so bad or such a vise for me. I just thought I ate junk because it was good, but really I relied on that crap for comfort. While it is a bit humiliating to admit all this, I'm thankful my eyes are now being opened to something that has went from healthy to very unhealthy. And I can work to change that. I will be thankful when I'm not consumed with the thoughts of junk and feeling the need to...

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