Hi Everyone,

Corey had a rough start to her day but once again, rallied to a successful end. She had a rough PT session which is to be expected after a travel weekend. Although the nurse and I ranged her several times a day while we were away, it does not come close to the stretches Corey receives and requires on a daily basis. Range of Motion is basic stretching. As a result of not having her usual therapy, her tone increased and she had severe pain from spasms as we tried to work on the matte. This is why daily PT is so critical!

We have found that after a difficult PT session if we get Corey in a hot shower the water along with hot compresses works wonders for her muscles and her attitude. After her spa session she rested a bit and was ready for school.

Chef Corey couldn’t wait to cook today. The entrée selection was Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups. I pre-cooked the lasagna noodles al dente, and Corey prepared the filling. She measured all the ingredients and used her hand held mixer to blend. She scooped the mixture onto the noodle (we are working on the concept of “gentle”…she still has a heavy hand and moves too quickly but it’s getting better). After the mixture is spread she then rolled the individual noodle. She tops the roll up with sauce and sprinkles on mozzarella cheese to complete the presentation ~ bon appetite! We created eight dinners for our local church to distribute.

Christa and Brittany commented that they’ve seen a significant difference in Corey’s ability to utilize the hand mixer. They also have seen an improvement in her stamina to cook for the full hour of school. (Check out the gallery – I call these two woman the Dynamic Duo ~ Christa, math teacher, is on Corey’s right and Brittany, OT, is on her left).

I was having so much fun watching Corey cook I tried filming her session today. We’ve decided that Corey needs a cooking show. At one point she stopped mid-measure looked at me and waved at the camera. She was smiling, bright and happy the entire session. After school Corey took an early evening nap but woke up just as content and happy as she was this afternoon. We had a great night talking, laughing and watching one of our favorite cooking reality shows; Cake Boss (we’re always looking for the next recipe)

Corey, I can’t tell you what it is like to watch how joyful you are when you cook. Your energy is the best ingredient in my day. I have to admit I was concerned this morning. I expected that the day was not going to go well. You did it again…at the end of the day, as I reflect back, your actions showed me not to project to how I think things will turn out. I need to be patient; work through the difficult moments and the best of “what is” will always present itself. Often in ways I could never predict. Your smile teaches me this everyday! Thank You, xoxo