tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36827914362061053232024-03-14T04:16:03.184-04:00~**~NIMKEE~BLESSINGS~**~~created in Loving Memory of Bennett-Chadlen Roy..aka "Nimkee". Nimkee Blessings is dedicated to helping families with babies in the NICU at Sick Kids Hospital, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. This project is a source of strength and healing for my family.
Love, Peace, & Nimkee Blessings, from my family to yours xxooNimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-63042048602204386192011-10-15T00:08:00.000-04:002011-10-15T00:08:05.505-04:00~October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month~<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">~Did you know that October is PREGNANCY & INFANT LOSS AWARENESS MONTH?</span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AA7BtmtnFm8/TpkBocQ-3sI/AAAAAAAAKzo/7xwcm9kFjxE/s1600/NILMDTS++sample+III.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AA7BtmtnFm8/TpkBocQ-3sI/AAAAAAAAKzo/7xwcm9kFjxE/s320/NILMDTS++sample+III.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">~Portal to Heaven~</span></td></tr>
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</style> <![endif]--> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">October 15<sup>th</sup> is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Day.<span> </span> </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">It’s a day when all of us that grieve the loss of our beloved babies can openly and publicly declare our remembrance of these tiny humans that have touched our lives forever.</span></span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8r17Yuss-8/TpkFmAIWCHI/AAAAAAAAKz4/oIU8__Tcpcw/s1600/ihadsons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8r17Yuss-8/TpkFmAIWCHI/AAAAAAAAKz4/oIU8__Tcpcw/s320/ihadsons.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">~ ♥ October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month ♥ ♥ October 15th is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Day ♥ ♥ </span></span></h6><h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":1}"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage" data-ft="{"type":3}">~ ♥ I always remember, and want you to never forget ♥ ~<br />
<br />
~RIP Noah-Alexander Golder ♥ August 6th, 1999 ♥<br />
~RIP Bennett-Chadlen Roy ♥ March 29-April 6, 2007 ♥</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"></span></span></h6></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Death is not the end of our love, or our memories; nor should that be expected.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today we stand united to embrace our grief and request that each of<span> </span>you take a few moments out of your day to think of our little angel-babies and reach out to support and remember alongside us.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=248688325170664">Project Sweet Peas will be holding a candle lighting vigil in remembrance of our angels.</a> At 7pm, I will be lighting candles in Loving Memory of babies everywhere, and keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr align="center" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><td><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZniPqOQVXg/TpkCstpqiFI/AAAAAAAAKzw/3WSKktdjn0o/s1600/IMG_2524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZniPqOQVXg/TpkCstpqiFI/AAAAAAAAKzw/3WSKktdjn0o/s320/IMG_2524.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">We always remember, and want you to never forget.</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Californian FB","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Californian FB","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Californian FB","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Californian FB","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Californian FB","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Californian FB","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Californian FB","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>~Crazy 4 Daizies~http://www.blogger.com/profile/07850381715476384822noreply@blogger.com1Little Current, ON P0P, Canada45.97875 -81.92528099999998445.7401665 -82.392199999999988 46.217333499999995 -81.45836199999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-70819390913725000292011-08-03T15:50:00.003-04:002011-08-03T23:53:53.643-04:00~2nd Annual Nimkee-Blessings Benefit Concert~<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KY-CdHAro1I/TjoXC3vrbfI/AAAAAAAAKyI/E2aZ4BrDxGE/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KY-CdHAro1I/TjoXC3vrbfI/AAAAAAAAKyI/E2aZ4BrDxGE/s320/13.jpg" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">~my son Brendan, aka "Introducing Bennett"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
~Well, it's that time again. That time of year to put this plan into action and make this another successful event to help out the families with babies in the NICU at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.<br />
<br />
Here's a link to the details of last year's event: <a href="http://nimkee-blessings.blogspot.com/2010/08/1st-annual-nimkee-blessingsintroducing_30.html">Annual Nimkee-Blessings Benefit Concert </a>.<br />
<br />
We have found a venue location and are very grateful to the Chief and Council of Sheguiandah for allowing us to host our event on Saturday, August 20th, at the Ball Field/Pow Wow Grounds on Hwy 6. on <a href="http://www.manitoulintourism.com/">Manitoulin Island</a> . This location will provide ample space with parking, washroom facilities, and a children's play area as this will be a family event. The water is nearby, but I ask that all children be supervised while near the beach area especially!<br />
<br />
If you know anyone that may be able to assist in the planning, or have any advice, please let us know by leaving a comment with your suggestions here on this post, or email Melissa at <a href="mailto:nimkee.blessings@gmail.com">nimkee.blessings@gmail.com</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
We will also require a confirmation of musicians that are interested in donating their time to this very worthy cause. I've had a friend do most of the legwork here---Dave Southwood---(thanks Dave!)---and he's worked very hard to secure the venue location, find bands, and many other details in between! I couldn't have done this without his gracious assistance. Dave has informed me that we've had 3 bands cancel so we're scouting bands to provide some entertainment for this very worthy cause. This year I am hoping to be able to make enough money to help cover some travel expenses to the bands that are able to attend. Last year's bands were amazing and generous, and their support will be eternally cherished and appreciated.<br />
<br />
We are very grateful for all of the volunteers that helped to make last year's first concert a success. It was a real learning experience and we hope to become bigger and better in years to come. If you'd like to donate your time or have some fund-raising ideas to offer please don't hesitate to contact us. All suggestions or offers of assistance will be graciously considered.<br />
<br />
I have set up a group specifically for volunteers, so feel free to join is here if you are on facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/nimkeeblessings/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/nimkeeblessings/ </a> <br />
<br />
More information and the story behind the creation of Nimkee-Blessings can be found at this link: <br />
<a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/">http://projectsweetpeas.com/</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/NimkeeBlessings.aspx">*Nimkee-Blessings is an International Affiliate of Project Sweet Peas</a>, a registered charity based out of the United States of America.~Crazy 4 Daizies~http://www.blogger.com/profile/07850381715476384822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-52896271735710351232011-03-14T00:46:00.000-04:002011-03-14T00:46:21.905-04:00~March 13th ~ TRISOMY 13 AWARENESS DAY~~Today, myself and many other families around the world took part in remembering and honouring our <a href="http://www.livingwithtrisomy13.org/content.php/191-Living-trisomy-13-album">Trisomy 13 angel-babies</a> and <a href="http://www.livingwithtrisomy13.org/content.php/191-Living-trisomy-13-album">miraculous survivors</a>. The 13th day of the 3rd month signifies the addition of the 3rd COPY of Chromosome 13 which contraindicates <a href="http://www.livingwithtrisomy13.org/MemoriesOfBennett.htm">Trisomy 13</a>.<br />
<br />
This is a beautiful commemoration of other <a href="http://www.livingwithtrisomy13.org/">Trisomy 13 families</a> that celebrate and cherish the blessings that we share. Thank you to <a href="http://www.livingwithtrisomy13.org/entry.php/165-Faith-Constance-Carlson-Stillwater-Oklahoma-%28OK%29-Mosiac-Trisomy-13">Micayla, Angel Faith's Mommy</a>, for putting this together and sharing it with others.<br />
<br />
Love, Peace, & <a href="http://nimkee-blessings.blogspot.com/">Nimkee-Blessings</a> to all on this special day and ways xxoo<br />
<br />
I love you <a href="http://www.livingwithtrisomy13.org/MemoriesOfBennett.htm">Bennett-Chadlen</a> xxoo <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/OE0IVJjPidM" title="YouTube video player" width="440">&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;fk&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;</iframe>~Crazy 4 Daizies~http://www.blogger.com/profile/07850381715476384822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-22016849578955897682011-03-12T19:02:00.002-05:002011-03-12T19:04:31.953-05:00~March is TRISOMY AWARENESS MONTH~~This month, please keep babies like my sweet angel Bennett-Chadlen, in your thoughts and prayers as we remember and celebrate their life journeys during this month of March. For more information about Nimkee, & Trisomy 13, also known as Patau Syndrome, please click here: <a href="http://my-baby-is-an-angel.blogspot.com/">http://my-baby-is-an-angel.blogspot.com</a><br />
<br />
Love, Peace, & Nimkee-Blessings to you all, Mxxoo<br />
<br />
<div><embed flashvars="&p=86d253a3853cd09ae0bb10&skin_id=701&host=http://www.onetruemedia.com" height="382" name="FLVPlayer" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" quality="high" salign="LT" scale="noscale" src="http://www.onetruemedia.com/share_view_player?p=86d253a3853cd09ae0bb10" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="550" wmode="transparent"></embed><br />
<div style="font: 12px/20px verdana,arial,sans-serif; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 15px; text-align: center; width: 550px;"><a href="http://www.onetruemedia.com/landing?&utm_source=emplay&utm_medium=txt2" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></a></div></div>~Crazy 4 Daizies~http://www.blogger.com/profile/07850381715476384822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-36425028968573162112011-01-24T01:12:00.004-05:002011-03-11T01:01:01.604-05:00~Waiting For Nimkee~<div><embed flashvars="&p=86d1697590206d70665296&skin_id=701&host=http://www.onetruemedia.com" height="382" name="FLVPlayer" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" quality="high" salign="LT" scale="noscale" src="http://www.onetruemedia.com/share_view_player?p=86d1697590206d70665296" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="500" wmode="transparent"></embed><br />
<div style="font: 12px/20px verdana,arial,sans-serif; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 15px; text-align: center; width: 500px;"><a href="http://www.onetruemedia.com/landing?&utm_source=emplay&utm_medium=txt1" style="text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Make an on-line slide show at <span style="text-decoration: underline;">www.OneTrueMedia.com</span></a></div></div><br />
During my 5th month of pregnancy with Bennett-Chadlen I received the heartbreaking prenatal diagnosis of Trisomy 13. As I struggled with the implications of what this could mean, I did my best to prepare for an unknown future with my darling, unborn son.<br />
<br />
These photos depict our prenatal journey from beginning to end. I share with you such a rare glimpse into the world of the unknown that I, and too many others, have chosen to experience.<br />
<br />
How do you prepare to say Goodbye before you've even had a chance to say Hello?<br />
<br />
**photos courtesy of Heather Renee Morgan of <a href="http://lifespark.ca/">Lifespark Photography</a>.~Crazy 4 Daizies~http://www.blogger.com/profile/07850381715476384822noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-44242268267766843142011-01-18T22:22:00.000-05:002011-01-18T22:22:08.343-05:00~Plans in the Making~~Well, it's that time again.<br />
<br />
That time of year to begin thinking about and planning our 2nd <a href="http://nimkee-blessings.blogspot.com/2010/08/1st-annual-nimkee-blessingsintroducing_30.html">Annual Nimkee-Blessings Benefit Concert </a>.<br />
<br />
We are requesting some feedback concerning venue ideas, so if you know of a location on <a href="http://www.manitoulintourism.com/">Manitoulin Island</a> that may be feasible, please let us know by leaving a comment with your suggestions here on this post, or email Melissa at <a href="mailto:nimkee.blessings@gmail.com">nimkee.blessings@gmail.com</a>.<br />
<br />
The location will require ample space with parking, washroom facilities, and preferably a children's play area as this will be a family event.<br />
<br />
We will also require a confirmation of musicians that are interested in donating their time to this very worthy cause.<br />
<br />
We are very grateful for all of the volunteers that helped to make last year's first concert a success. It was a real learning experience and we hope to become bigger and better in years to come. If you'd like to donate your time or have some fund-raising ideas to offer please don't hesitate to contact us. All suggestions or offers of assistance will be graciously considered.<br />
<br />
More information and the story behind the creation of Nimkee-Blessings can be found at this link: <br />
<a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/">http://projectsweetpeas.com/</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/NimkeeBlessings.aspx">*Nimkee-Blessings is an International Affiliate of Project Sweet Peas</a>, a registered charity based out of the United States of America.~Crazy 4 Daizies~http://www.blogger.com/profile/07850381715476384822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-48246908925873842222010-12-28T14:30:00.000-05:002010-12-28T14:30:32.276-05:00~What makes a Mother?~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8wSVxVxSQ1E/TRo3ulODMHI/AAAAAAAAKpk/V_6a6paUe1M/s1600/First+Kiss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_8wSVxVxSQ1E/TRo3ulODMHI/AAAAAAAAKpk/V_6a6paUe1M/s400/First+Kiss.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt;">What makes a Mother?</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I thought of you and closed my eyes, and prayed to God today.</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I asked, “What makes a Mother?” and I know I heard him say:</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">“A Mother has a baby, this we know is true.”</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">“But God, can you be a Mother when your baby’s not with you?”</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">“Yes you can”, He replied with a confidence in His voice,</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">“I give many women babies, when they leave is not their choice.</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Some I send for a lifetime, and others for a day,</span></b></div><div class="MsoBodyText3"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">And some I send to feel your womb, but there’s no need to stay.”</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">“I just don’t understand this God, I want my baby here.”</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"> He took a breath and cleared His throat, and then I saw a tear.</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">“I wish I could show you what your child is doing today. If you could see your child smile with other children and say:”</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">“We go to Earth and learn our lessons of love and life and fear. </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">My Mommy loved me oh so much I got to come straight here. </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I feel so lucky to have a Mom who had so much love for me, </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I learned my lesson very quickly; </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">My Mommy set me free. </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I miss my Mommy oh so much, but I visit her each day.</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">When she goes to sleep, on her pillow’s where I lay. </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I stroke her hair and kiss her cheek and whisper in her ear,</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">‘Mommy don’t be sad today, I’m you’re baby and I’m here.’”</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">“So you see my dear sweet one, your children are OK. </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Your babies are here in My home and this is where they’ll stay.</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">They’ll wait for you with me until your lesson is through,</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">And on the day that you come home they’ll be at the gates for you.</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">So now you see what makes a Mother, it’s the feeling in your heart.</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">It’s the love you had so much of right from the very start.”</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">~Jennifer Wasik</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">~Thinking of all my special Mommy friends that are spending their holidays missing their loved ones. </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">I send prayers of peace, love, & healing to those that are spending their Christmas in the NICU (neo-natal intensive care unit) with their new babies, in need of some extra tender-loving care. </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">May our Creator watch over you, and shower you with an endless abundance of Nimkee-Blessings. </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Peace be with you,</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #00ccff; font-family: "Arial Unicode MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Melissa xxoo</span></b></div>~Crazy 4 Daizies~http://www.blogger.com/profile/07850381715476384822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-11993070317807781782010-12-18T19:27:00.000-05:002010-12-18T19:27:31.597-05:00~Reflections of Cystic Fibrosis~<a href="http://s91.photobucket.com/albums/k298/crazy_for_daisies/?action=view&current=purpleflowersforCarolyn003.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="I Believe In Tiny Miracles" border="0" height="300" src="http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k298/crazy_for_daisies/purpleflowersforCarolyn003.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/">http://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/(click here for more info)</a><br />
<br />
I remember a visit to <a href="http://www.sickkids.ca/">Sick Kids Hospital</a> in Toronto, Ontario back in 2004. Tristan (5--diagnosed with Spherocytosis which is a blood disease) was there to have his spleen and gallbladder removal surgery and we had to spend 11 days on the surgical floor as he healed.<br />
<br />
I took advantage of having someone to sit with Tristan and I took a brief jaunt to grab a coffee and a snack. In the nurses/admission area I saw a woman holding a very sick looking little baby. He was several months old, and had tubes attached to him. The mother had a very sad glint in her eyes, but smiled at me and said "Hi" as I approached.<br />
<br />
My mommy senses kicked in and I just had to take a peak at her baby boy and let her know how cute I thought he was. I then asked her what was wrong. She told me he was born with <a href="http://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/en/aboutCysticFibrosis/FAQs.php">Cystic Fibrosis </a>and his life expectancy was nearing its end. My heart took a leap and I felt my eyes instantly fill with tears. I instinctively reached out and placed my hand on her arm and looked at her and told her how sorry I was to hear that as I had also lost a baby to stillbirth and it was a pain that I could relate to.<br />
<br />
How does a parent maintain composure as they know their child's life is ending? At that moment in time I couldn't even conceive of experiencing and surviving such a thing.<br />
<br />
She thanked me for listening as she shared her son's all too brief life story and explained that all they could do at that point was provide him with comfort measures and hope for the best. The only thing which may prolong his life was if another family lost their baby and donated the necessary tiny lungs to another family in need.<br />
<br />
I walked away with tears and just felt such an incredibly overwhelming sense of sorrow and heartache for this woman. Thoughts of her and her baby stayed with me over those next several days, weeks, months, and even years. Every time I hear the words 'Cystic Fibrosis', this woman and her beautiful son instantly appear in my mind.<br />
<br />
Despite the sadness which she was experiencing, she was still able to smile and truly appreciate that I had stopped and allowed her to speak with me. She said most people just keep on walking and go about their day. She just needed someone to listen, show compassion and empathy, and provide that little bit of comfort in that moment.<br />
<br />
This link gives hope for the future for many families that are struggling to survive with Cystic Fibrosis. <a href="http://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/en/aboutCysticFibrosis/Personalstories.php">Click here for more personal stories</a> of hopes, dreams, and determination.<br />
<br />
As we are in the midst of our holiday season, please remember all those that are spending their holidays in hospitals around the world, watching their loved ones slip away. <br />
<br />
What can you do? Consider the generous, self-less gift of <a href="http://organdonations.ca/">organ donation</a> to help another family in need.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/en/getInvolved/Donate.php">Life----it's in you to give.</a>~Crazy 4 Daizies~http://www.blogger.com/profile/07850381715476384822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-37622181965350219342010-11-15T17:05:00.003-05:002010-11-16T18:19:57.996-05:00~Hats of Hope ~ Project 150~<a href="http://twomomsltd.blogspot.com/2010/10/hats-of-hope-project-150.html">http://twomomsltd.blogspot.com/2010/10/hats-of-hope-project-150.html</a><br />
<br />
~The following statement is an exert from the above blog:<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;"><b>"Approximately 150 Kentucky kids are diagnosed with cancer each year. Kentucky children have a greater proportion of new solid malignancy cancer cases than anywhere else in the United States." </b></span><b><br />
</b><span style="font-style: italic;"><b>~ UK Pediatric Research Institute</b></span></blockquote> What is "<a href="http://twomomsltd.blogspot.com/2010/10/hats-of-hope-project-150.html"><b>Project 150</b></a>" you may ask? <a href="http://twomomsltd.blogspot.com/2010/10/hats-of-hope-project-150.html"><b>Project 150</b></a> was inspired by a compassionate little girl named Jesse, who was named after her mother's childhood friend who sadly passed away from cancer. Jesse's mother discusses how she read the above quote to her 5 year old daughter, and Jesse's response was that she wanted to be able to knit and provide hats to kids with cancer by Thanksgiving because<br />
<blockquote><b><i>"that's when it will be getting too cold to not have one if you are bald." ~ <a href="http://twomomsltd.blogspot.com/2010/10/hats-of-hope-project-150.html">Jesse, 5yrs old.</a></i></b></blockquote>This website explains that in the year of 2010, the average cost of cancer care for one child patient is approximately $36, 800, so Jesse would also like to try and raise enough money to help these families that so greatly require this financial assistance.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><b>"<a href="http://twomomsltd.blogspot.com/">Two Moms </a>is now selling <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60704482/hats-of-hope-childrens-cancer-awareness">Children's Cancer Awareness Ribbons</a> on our etsy store to help reach our $36,800 goal! Come check them out now! 100% of sale price will go right to Project 150!" ~ Aura, mom of Jesse</b></blockquote><blockquote><b><br />
</b></blockquote><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TOGqbIuCi8I/AAAAAAAAAK0/HpwTVhp8fSU/s1600/hatsofhope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TOGqbIuCi8I/AAAAAAAAAK0/HpwTVhp8fSU/s320/hatsofhope.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60704482/hats-of-hope-childrens-cancer-awareness"><b>http://www.etsy.com/listing/60704482/hats-of-hope-childrens-cancer-awareness</b></a> </div><br />
For more information, please click on the links provided. Feel free to share this information with others to help raise Awareness, and help these families. <br />
<br />
Love, Peace, & Nimkee-Blessings,<br />
Melissa xxoo<br />
<blockquote><b><i>"In addition, to reach our 150 Hat goal, we are offering free hat making parties to anyone who might be interested in learning how to make the hats, with the only caveat being that everyone in the party donate the first hat they make to the project. We are also accepting knit and crocheted hats from anyone who is willing to send them to us!</i></b> </blockquote><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>(all hat donations can be sent to: Project 150 C/O Jesse Paige, 191 Baybrook Circle, Nicholasville, KY. 40356.)</i></b></span></blockquote>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-61100809304310589242010-10-17T16:21:00.006-04:002010-10-17T17:13:19.125-04:00~♥ ♥ TODAY WE REMEMBER UNITED, EVERY DAY WE REMEMBER IN OUR HEARTS ♥ ♥ ~<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~<a href="http://october15th.com/">October 15th</a> is a monumental day for families like mine, for it's the ONE day all year that we are recognized and given permission to mourn openly and remember our beloved ^Angel^Babies.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">This is monumental as much of society still perpetuates the old way of thinking, instilling the Taboo Silence of Infant Loss. A mother never forgets the day a child is born, regardless of the duration of that pregnancy, or newborn's life. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">All that we ask is that you all try to imagine what we've gone through, and understand with compassion that we are doing our very best to strive and survive through the greatest heartache imaginable.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">It is a loss of hopes and dreams of future days spent cuddling as we watch our children learn and grow. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Be gentle with us, as we are with you, for we also understand that it's so very difficult for you to deal with our grief.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Once a year on this date, families around the world unite and remember their angel-babies in a variety of ways.</span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtGAaY44SI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/9Bg7iTlqTbo/s1600/WaveofLight.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="340" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtGAaY44SI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/9Bg7iTlqTbo/s400/WaveofLight.gif" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.october15th.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">http://www.october15th.com/</span></a></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><div style="text-align: center;">Many others, like myself, will release balloons in Loving Memory of our Angel Babies. </div></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">In conjunction with Project Sweet Peas, and their balloon release event, I too released balloons to the babies of the families that sent in their requests. I released balloons for 87 babies on my list; together Project Sweet Peas as a whole released balloons for over 400 little lives lost too soon.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtIXidqOzI/AAAAAAAAAKU/0ToV294u5o4/s1600/IMG_2448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtIXidqOzI/AAAAAAAAAKU/0ToV294u5o4/s400/IMG_2448.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">My second angel-baby Bennett-Chadlen was born on March 29, and grew his tiny wings 8 days later on Good Friday, April 6th, 2007 at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, Ontario</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtJb9w340I/AAAAAAAAAKY/aoHLdi8jAug/s1600/IMG_2449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtJb9w340I/AAAAAAAAAKY/aoHLdi8jAug/s400/IMG_2449.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">My first angel, Noah-Alexander, was born with wings on August 6th, 1999</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtJuhvBeZI/AAAAAAAAAKc/Mmd-taTlkts/s1600/IMG_2495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtJuhvBeZI/AAAAAAAAAKc/Mmd-taTlkts/s400/IMG_2495.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Tristan, Tanner, Mason, & Rheanne were there to help honour the memory of their beloved siblings</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtKCkDK-SI/AAAAAAAAAKg/Yr_nbzEoJiQ/s1600/IMG_2501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtKCkDK-SI/AAAAAAAAAKg/Yr_nbzEoJiQ/s400/IMG_2501.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">My boys and I ready to release the balloons!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtLbg6B56I/AAAAAAAAAKk/on-kgLKPWJg/s1600/IMG_2510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtLbg6B56I/AAAAAAAAAKk/on-kgLKPWJg/s400/IMG_2510.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Up, up, & away.....*photo courtesy of my boys as I was cutting the ties!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">On behalf of Nimkee Blessings, I want to wish all families of ^Angels^ peace and comfort in your hearts, knowing that we all remember with you. I wish you strength to get through the difficult moments as they inevitably come, and courage to face another day. Set small goals, and don't fight the feelings. Get through today.......then do it again tomorrow. Be gentle with yourself.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Love, Peace, & Nimkee-Blessings to all~</span></div><div><br />
</div><div><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}"><span class="UIStory_Message"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~ ♥ ♥ Today, we remember united; Every day we remember in our hearts ♥ ♥ ~</span></span></h3><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtaOX-0fEI/AAAAAAAAAKo/xYC8DDOWxgI/s1600/IMG_2524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TLtaOX-0fEI/AAAAAAAAAKo/xYC8DDOWxgI/s400/IMG_2524.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~1 candle for Noah-Alexander, 1 candle for Bennett-Chadlen, 1 candle for all~</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div></div>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-3943301537875499042010-10-03T00:07:00.002-04:002010-10-03T00:27:02.720-04:00~LaBelleDame.com~Jewelry to nurture and support the spirit~~the following links are to a wonderful website which provides beautiful keepsake jewelry for mothers, grandmothers, aunts.....and also offer cards and links to support resources.<br />
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<b><i>For every purchase made by following one of these links, I will receive a 15% discount which I am planning to put towards the purchase of items for recipients of my Nimkee-Blessings Memorial gift bags for families with newborns at the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) of Toronto, Sick Kids Hospital.</i></b><br />
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</i></b><br />
<b><i>Thanks in advance~Melissa Roy, project leader for Nimkee Blessings</i></b><br />
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<b>Miscarriage and Infant Loss Memorial Jewelry</b>:<br />
<a href="http://ww7.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.labelledame.com&afid=16975&tm=30&im=4" target="_top"><img alt="Miscarriage and Infant Loss Memorial Jewelry" border="0" height="60" src="http://www.labelledame.com/images/affiliates/tinyfootprints.gif" width="486" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://ww7.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.labelledame.com&afid=16975&tm=30&im=2" target="_top"><img alt="Miscarriage and Infant Loss Memorial Jewelry" border="0" height="60" src="http://www.labelledame.com/images/affiliates/butterflybaby.gif" width="486" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://ww7.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.labelledame.com&afid=16975&tm=30&im=1" target="_top">Miscarriage, Stillbirth and Infant Loss Jewelry</a> -Customised jewelry to celebrate the life of a child lost in miscarriage, stillbirth and infant loss. Each piece is created using carefully selected symbols to help support the grieving parent after the loss of a baby.<br />
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<a href="http://ww7.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.labelledame.com&afid=16975&tm=30&im=6" target="_top"><img alt="Memorial Jewelry" border="0" height="60" src="http://www.labelledame.com/images/affiliates/memorial-jewelry.jpg" width="486" /></a><br />
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<b>Fertility Jewelry:</b><br />
<a href="http://ww7.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.labelledame.com&afid=16975&tm=30&im=7" target="_top"><img alt="fertility jewelry" border="0" height="60" src="http://www.labelledame.com/images/affiliates/fertility-jewelry.jpg" width="486" /></a><br />
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<b>Pregnancy Jewelry:</b><br />
<a href="http://ww7.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.labelledame.com&afid=16975&tm=30&im=8" target="_top"><img alt="pregnancy jewelry" border="0" height="60" src="http://www.labelledame.com/images/affiliates/pregnancy-jewelry.jpg" width="486" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://ww7.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.labelledame.com&afid=16975&tm=30&im=9" target="_top">Memorial Jewelry</a> -Customised jewelry to celebrate the life of a loved one. Each piece is created using carefully selected symbols to help support the grieving process, and life after loss.<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://ww7.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.labelledame.com&afid=16975&tm=30&im=10" target="_top">Fertility Jewelry</a> - Each piece is created using carefully selected symbols and gemstones to help support the couple who is trying to conceive. Sensitive pieces make wonderful gifts for those who must walk a longer road to get the baby they dream of.<br />
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<a href="http://ww7.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=www.labelledame.com&afid=16975&tm=30&im=11" target="_top">Pregnancy and Birth Jewelry</a> -Customised jewelry to celebrate and support your pregnancy and birth. Created using carefully selected gemstones and symbols to honour this exciting time!<br />
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<a href="http://www.petmemorialjewelry.com/" title="Pet memorial jewelry created to keep your cat and dog's memory close after the loss of a pet. Touching pet loss sympathy gifts. Free online pet memorials">Pet Memorial Jewelry - Pet Loss - Cat and Dog Sympathy Gifts</a><br />
Pet memorial jewelry created to keep your cat and dog's memory close after the loss of a pet. Touching pet loss sympathy gifts. Free online pet memorials<br />
<a href="http://www.petmemorialjewelry.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://www.petmemorialjewelry.com/images/pet-memorial-banner.jpg" /></a>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-51505840306347010952010-09-10T23:28:00.000-04:002010-09-10T23:28:30.792-04:00~OCTOBER 15th is PREGNANCY & INFANT LOSS REMEMBRANCE DAY~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIr2jKfcIMI/AAAAAAAAAHc/7YI3gwd-deM/s1600/oct15poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIr2jKfcIMI/AAAAAAAAAHc/7YI3gwd-deM/s640/oct15poster.jpg" width="492" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div>~As many of you are aware, I am a member of <a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/NimkeeBlessings.aspx">PROJECT SWEET PEAS</a>, and to commemorate our beloved angels on this day, October 15th, we are offering to release balloons with your angel's name(s) on it.<div><br />
</div><div>I will be participating in this balloon release, so if you have a special little angel that you would like to have remembered and want me to send a balloon to, please let me know and I'll add you to my list!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Much Love, Peace, & NIMKEE BLESSINGS to you all,</div><div><br />
</div><div>Melissa, Mommy to 2 special angels---Noah-Alexander, born w wings on August 6th, 1999---and Bennett-Chadlen, forever 8 days old, March 29th-April 6th, 2007.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIr2tdzJISI/AAAAAAAAAHk/BNs6OCpWQ0o/s1600/oct15.2.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIr2tdzJISI/AAAAAAAAAHk/BNs6OCpWQ0o/s640/oct15.2.2.jpg" width="493" /></a></div><div><br />
</div>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-60014916190862583362010-09-10T19:08:00.004-04:002010-09-10T23:29:17.531-04:00~LINK to the 1st ANNUAL NIMKEE BLESSINGS CONCERT EXPOSITOR FEATURE from Sept. 8, 2010<a href="https://acrobat.com/#d=I2xHj3SM4rfl6i3HIlNgsQ"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Click HERE to read the Expositor story</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://acrobat.com/#d=I2xHj3SM4rfl6i3HIlNgsQ"></a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">It may take a minute or so to upload for viewing.....so please be patient......sing a song, or count the seconds :O)</span>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-63792129961781091492010-09-10T17:35:00.005-04:002011-01-18T22:21:57.683-05:00~The AFTER Benefit Concert Update~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIk7C9Ogn7I/AAAAAAAAAFs/y8q1RWcwkeA/s1600/brendan+sepia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIk7C9Ogn7I/AAAAAAAAAFs/y8q1RWcwkeA/s400/brendan+sepia.jpg" width="380" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Nimkee's big brother Brendan, founder of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/introducingbennett">INTRODUCING BENNETT</a></span></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Sunday, Sept 5th turned out to be a beautiful, warm, sunny day. Many local families gathered together to share in our planned festivities, and a great day was had by all.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I was overwhelmed with great joy and deep gratitude as I looked around and saw the faces of people that I had never met before---and here they were---setting up tables, selling tickets for donated items from various Manitoulin Island businesses, home-baked goods, and who can forget Landon's Lemonade Stand!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Landon is a little local boy that is fighting leukemia. He too endures many trips to <a href="http://www.sickkids.ca/Research/LRG/Children-with-leukemia/index.html">Sick Kids Hospital</a> and his mother Marilee knows all too well what we families must experience in order to keep our children healthy, comfortable, and alive. Landon and his wonderful Mommy Marilee set up a lemonade stand and graciously donated all the proceeds to my project NIMKEE BLESSINGS! God bless you Landon---please know that you have a couple of very loving Guardian Angels watching over you at my request. Their names are Noah-Alexander, & Bennett-Chadlen....aka Nimkee.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~GREAT BIG THANKS to my nephew PAUL aka "Commander"---I appreciate everything you did to help us out! Love you muchly XXOO</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Thank you Marilee for helping out as you did! The painted faces made me smile through my tears, your thoughtfulness and generosity will never be forgotten.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Various volunteers collected donations of items and services which were raffled off through a silent auction. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Thanks to our many generous sponsors:</span><br />
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<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The Manitoulin Expositor for running our ad for 2 consecutive weeks, and for doing a couple of feature stories about our family, and my project Nimkee Blessings!</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">NACK's Store in Manitowaning for their generous donation of various craft items used to keep our visiting children busy---colouring books, crayons, bubbles, face paints, paints, brushes, temporary tattoos, cardstock paper for my business cards, etc, and toys for a draw! And thanks for lending us your table because I forgot mine!</span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The following businesses graciously donated items which were used in our silent auction/raffle draws:</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Soul Hope</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Carl's Trading Post</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Huron Lodge Motel</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">South Bay Gallery</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">JD Garden Centre</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Ward's General Store</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Manitoulin Espresso Bar</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Mum's Restaurant</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Roosterant</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Moose</span></li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">BIG THANKS to the following volunteers for all of your help!</span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Stace McGauley </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://lifeonmanitoulinreviews.blogspot.com/2010/08/something-near-and-dear-to-our-hearts.html?showComment=1283229936697_AIe9_BFjRX-AQduXJ03iRiuCzGH7v0RFryF5iQ-jIkT_EvdZ-iBQytuEuCmIuCoXthq0q9CTIwGW9gAPL4ohb3WHCKmChBlxl6uaOauvY4HYk74iUFk2j-S7SZnj7f0orMgPwxg9rMt7mCIEaul9xMIJ4uvSUHzzeOHHmd8NvK5-6B3JFhgjGyEuJpKFCAaIUGGp4bPQ8RCKr0HM4--77ypK3r1Hz_yZALYGVJjCzmUcfRI-m0AE49DnxSzIlIZejCenHxwHHPpYeyRY6xTe-m2EMUQn1sPozFQFz3XlzvVQMAwKJ3azK29oNCYvg7UZrA9nFB8MmD9QpzCi--uNM7ZQfILSJ2mVSzGbedqHuiUbuy_xPywhe4_dFhDL0CWb9raFUiFeX87aP6JBZVL3y9e9ofiybilPisTx5TyztW1HTXuXsixUCxGxu7p2vOiM4-bIQwfieYSWbn5LO1Ln8vvZULRT0rTAX3r0-7abL_p9sy0ytmJKChzwguVse9HSl5M0pZcDZ6o0sO_AOMoncL0gzkvPkb1vfh7J16oEGajNZMlBxqkDgpbIZ5c07t_NIAysZvAYAgmYem-txasSiz5R4DhkArQZY_ugV_MHv_ze819hXArNGmb60JVZ9wSUYZmixfo604KKMyvaoOpY5KHP9t_BH9GUP9j03ZadA4KkpZ9cu2WKDHwHDnhiZuBouXUvMRXj3OfoquiHI7CopwL-7nmeEwdgke_PrauEn_zsjiPyLeZdRYgqiY9oLkxbom0FE6V9Tnf7vVz002dWQWFqvZ4DSYQ0LlIwCy5MPMaenUKX40ZxRtKBeXjHs2P5_oN1diYybW_XKO0RT9Kt2JM6tdy47bRFMMU-hSXSEIlWW2vV99R1K8-nM7PxYw7XOSgNSCtpvbpwuW6fKaxVfblH4DHU9GtVxIq860_57Uu1zMpUwtd1gbwl79dphcjxkBwGWDEE6VEJELfSGw1orD8gWLXULT2pZi64Z03XIC4_oOfzswV11jVJPfKyIB8MKkB6MDo3m6MA1VJlyPSMG1qEshQQ9q6z7hVvZDnlFGE9Juq2RzuwaimsTEOOJs31GZNDuCjf7g91rBO5zMki8pFj-u9KUDUToC3fMc73GiAZzZKhn4Pug3QPOJS1W_IO4QkhzVxk58kOchqo2kqJuSXvyBl_rgqguhN6efWCOsQlvk5lmcWD6PEL2KzstmHhjLRrLEjlLd-J3jptf0p3ljzuiP0wyvCGQ06RJ_WVT4MopuNcdcKBRG8uRgnTBTBswEwxS20JJKvB#c5733593848096754767">Christine Lee McNaughton</a></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Jennifer Hooper</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Rhonda Martin</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Carrie Hull-Spry</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Jena Bowerman</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Allison Pyette</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Marilee Harasym and LANDON for their lemonade stand!!!</span></li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Much gratitude to LUKE SELLEN for making everyone SOUND GREAT!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Much love & gratitude to our wonderful musicians:</span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/introducingbennett">INTRODUCING BENNETT</a> ft Brendan, Pete, Jason, & Tedd</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">BRAND NEW EYES ft Brendan, Jason, Matt, Cindy, & Justin</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">LOW GUNS ft Luke Sellen & Dwayne Trudeau</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">CRYPT aka Michael Stevenson---who also proposed to his gf that night following his performance---she said YES! CONGRATULATIONS Michael & Carissa---may you have love and happiness together for the rest of eternity!</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Dave Southwood & son Skylar, Darren Madahbee, & Damien Thibodeau</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Digger Wyman, Wayne Smith, & Robbie Shawana</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Leslie Neshkiwe</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Pat Peltier & bandmates</span></li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">YOU GUYS ROCK!!!! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~AND WE CAN'T FORGET OUR MAGICIAN!! Gchi-miigwech to Ashlee Manitowabi for his wonderful, and mesmerizing performance!! I wish my camera had been working so that I could have taken some pics!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Thank you all from the bottom of my bottomless heart. Without you there'd be no concert----I feel blessed and forever touched by your generous donation of time and talent.</span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Thanks to <a href="http://www.manitoulinislanders.net/">The Manitoulin Islanders</a> & their volunteers for all of their hard work and making sure no one went hungry!</span></div><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~And last, but certainly NOT LEAST---thanks to Rita & Terry of </span><a href="http://gordonspark.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Gordon's Park</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> and staff for allowing us the use of their beautiful landscape. It was perfect!! The kids loved the mini-putt and playground! We'll definitely be back next summer to enjoy some of your<a href="http://www.gordonspark.com/astronomy.html"> star-gazing nights</a>!!!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The children enjoyed our 3 pm presentation by a local magician from the </span><a href="http://www.debaj.ca/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Debajehmujig Theatre Group</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> here on Manitoulin Island. Gchi-miigwech to Ashlee Manitowabi for his stellar performance! You boggled my mind---great show!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The show got underway as </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/IntroducingBennett"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">INTRODUCING BENNETT</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> performed for us. As most of you already know, my eldest son Brendan began this musical project during my pregnancy with Bennett-Chadlen as we knew that his time here with us may be cut short due to his prenatal diagnosis of <a href="http://livingwithtrisomy13.org/memoriesofbennett.htm">Trisomy 13</a>. It was a coping mechanism and very therapeutic for Brendan to work through his emotions with music. I'm very proud of you Brendan----we all are-----especially our Little Thunder "Nimkee".</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The spirit of the cause hung heavy in the air, but was uplifting and cheery. The number of musicians that came out to help us entertain and raise funds was phenomenal. I wish that more people had been able to witness this amazing talent with us, but overall it was a wonderful and memorable day which has touched my heart deeply.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">GCHI-MIIGWECH to EVERYONE for coming out to support us, & entertain us, so that we may reach out and help some other NICU families through their own healing journeys. I couldn't have done this without you! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Love, Peace, & Nimkee Blessings </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Melissa XXOO</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIk6lAL1DeI/AAAAAAAAAFk/Q7b6xo2AsYM/s1600/41243_484261345032_634730032_7048794_6373637_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIk6lAL1DeI/AAAAAAAAAFk/Q7b6xo2AsYM/s400/41243_484261345032_634730032_7048794_6373637_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">INTRODUCING BENNETT</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIk7SrUZz-I/AAAAAAAAAF0/_RIvpwZ81KM/s1600/digger,+mike,+n+luke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIk7SrUZz-I/AAAAAAAAAF0/_RIvpwZ81KM/s400/digger,+mike,+n+luke.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CRYPT aka Michael Stevenson, Digger Wyman, & sound engineer extraordinaire Luke Sellen</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIk7rQqbcwI/AAAAAAAAAF8/1RqwCHSZukM/s1600/dave+%26+damien+bw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIk7rQqbcwI/AAAAAAAAAF8/1RqwCHSZukM/s400/dave+%26+damien+bw.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Darren Madahbee, Dave Southwood, & Damien Thibodeau<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 9px;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIls9-PXcJI/AAAAAAAAAGk/WKQOK2yCemc/s1600/leslie1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIls9-PXcJI/AAAAAAAAAGk/WKQOK2yCemc/s400/leslie1.jpg" width="362" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leslie Neshkiwe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIltqu_RpRI/AAAAAAAAAGs/F9uRLENz0fE/s1600/dig8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIltqu_RpRI/AAAAAAAAAGs/F9uRLENz0fE/s400/dig8.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Digger Wyman & Wayne Smith</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlkJ9ixiWI/AAAAAAAAAGM/4Zo65OVo4WY/s1600/bne+sepia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlkJ9ixiWI/AAAAAAAAAGM/4Zo65OVo4WY/s400/bne+sepia.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BRAND NEW EYES ft Brendan, Jason, Matt, Cindy & Justin</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlsOKVZF-I/AAAAAAAAAGc/d03XUU2MIXc/s1600/pat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlsOKVZF-I/AAAAAAAAAGc/d03XUU2MIXc/s400/pat1.jpg" width="400" /></span></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pat Peltier Band</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlwdJjJdpI/AAAAAAAAAG8/BnWADrqJFJI/s1600/southwood1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlwdJjJdpI/AAAAAAAAAG8/BnWADrqJFJI/s400/southwood1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skylar Southwood, Darren Madahbee, Dave Southwood, Damien Thibodeau, Luke Sellen</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlveD3sfPI/AAAAAAAAAG0/4AwN__wmjTI/s1600/dig1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlveD3sfPI/AAAAAAAAAG0/4AwN__wmjTI/s400/dig1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wayne Smith, Digger Wyman, & Robbie Shawana<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlxOrwQ2CI/AAAAAAAAAHE/-06X-fopBK0/s1600/b3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlxOrwQ2CI/AAAAAAAAAHE/-06X-fopBK0/s400/b3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlxVJ3oBuI/AAAAAAAAAHM/B-yfARHQ2aI/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlxVJ3oBuI/AAAAAAAAAHM/B-yfARHQ2aI/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reggie Leach (NHL record holder & current coach of the Manitoulin Islanders team) & my Dad---Larry Roy (retired General Manager of the same team)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlzrqztfgI/AAAAAAAAAHU/b8DwjvMCjWQ/s1600/fam2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="347" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TIlzrqztfgI/AAAAAAAAAHU/b8DwjvMCjWQ/s400/fam2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Family--L to R--Mason, Tanner, Tristan, Grampa Cannard, my Mom--Glena Roy</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-14429393463332376112010-08-30T15:42:00.002-04:002010-09-10T23:29:44.504-04:00~LINK TO OUR MANITOULIN EXPOSITOR STORY~<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 10px;"></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 10px;"></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 10px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://acrobat.com/#d=lSu5mfnvykgJdhSYyNmUFg">CLICK HERE for our Manitoulin Expositor story</a></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/THwISZWIKBI/AAAAAAAAAFU/bKSaabMFhB8/s1600/IMG_2210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/THwISZWIKBI/AAAAAAAAAFU/bKSaabMFhB8/s320/IMG_2210.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/THwIDP4gr2I/AAAAAAAAAFM/GXJcv0OnNS4/s1600/expositor.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/THwIDP4gr2I/AAAAAAAAAFM/GXJcv0OnNS4/s320/expositor.JPG" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I have been trying to share this link on facebook but it won't work for some reason?! I have tested this link here and it did lead me to the story. </span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Good luck, I hope it works for </span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/THwGs6BYcFI/AAAAAAAAAFE/j0Gg047dHHM/s1600/expos-ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/THwGs6BYcFI/AAAAAAAAAFE/j0Gg047dHHM/s320/expos-ad.jpg" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: x-large;">you!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: x-large;">Thanks to Michael Erskine for his time in interviewing Brendan and I, and for writing this story----very well written and thought provoking! </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: x-large;">Much thanks to Rick, his family, & the staff of the Manitoulin Expositor for sharing this story and for also providing us with our advertising for our event!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Love, Peace, & Nimkee Blessings to you all,</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Melissa & family xxoo</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></div></span></span></span>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-32605500838541103722010-08-30T12:45:00.001-04:002010-08-30T13:11:42.010-04:00~1st ANNUAL NIMKEE-BLESSINGS/INTRODUCING BENNETT BENEFIT CONCERT~LINE-UP INFO & UPDATES!!!<div style="text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/THvc6XuZPXI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/I6EWMK7FvII/s1600/bottom-poster.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" height="144" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511241464377064818" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/THvc6XuZPXI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/I6EWMK7FvII/s400/bottom-poster.jpg" style="display: block; height: 121px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 333px;" width="400" /></a><br />
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<tr><td class="data"><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_4c7bdb7eca3f5166e8d2d"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~**~NIMKEE BLESSINGS & INTRODUCING BENNETT~**~ are co-hosting a Benefit Concert on SUNDAY, SEPT 5th at Gordon's Park (18777 Hwy 6), Tehkummah, Manitoulin Island! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">We will have lots of great entertainment for young and old alike, & fun things for the kiddies to do! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~ALL PROCEEDS go to helping families with babies in the SICK KIDS HOSPITAL NICU in Toronto, Ontario.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">$10 for ages 15+ </span></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">$5 for children 5-15 </span></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">FREE for children 4 & under </span></span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">FEATURING</span>: </span><br />
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<ul><li> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">2-2:30 Introducing Bennett (Brendan, Pete, Jason, Tedd) </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 2:30-3 Tedd Jensen </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 3-4 Pat Peltier </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 4-4:30 Leslie Neshkiwe </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 4:30-5:30 Dave Southwood & Darren Madahbee </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 5:30-6 Digger Wyman </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 6-7 Brand New Eyes (Brendan, Jason, Cindy, Justin, Matt) </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 7-7:30 Damien Thibodeau 7:30-8 CJ, Brendan, and probably Jason! </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 8-9 Low Guns (Luke Sellen & Dwayne Trudeau) </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 9-9:30 CRYPT (Michael Stevenson)</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> 9:30-10 Introducing Bennett (Brendan, Pete, Jason, Tedd)</span></li>
</ul><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511241724937890658" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/THvdJiY762I/AAAAAAAAAIY/Lmcc4cBxye4/s400/bunny+n+balloons.png" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 333px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 210px;" /></span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">NEWS UPDATE:</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">WE ALSO HAVE A MAGICIAN FOR THE KIDS!!!</span></span></div></div></span></div><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_4c7bdb7eca3f5166e8d2d" style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_4c7bdb7eca3f5166e8d2d"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Children's activities so far:</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="text_exposed_show"></span></span><br />
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<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Face painting</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Rock painting--make something for the garden!</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Colouring & Drawing station--will have a display board to showcase art!</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Playground</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Bubbles</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">For a park fee: Mini-putt, heated swimming pool WITH ADULT SUPERVISION for anyone under 16</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Nimkee Blessings Corn Roast</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">BBQ w funds going to The Manitoulin Islanders---come on out and support your local team!!!</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Bake Table!</span></li>
</ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></span> </div></td></tr>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05124078466709494768noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-3668929962973697602010-08-16T00:54:00.013-04:002010-08-17T15:35:51.025-04:00~1st ANNUAL NIMKEE-BLESSINGS/INTRODUCING BENNETT BENEFIT CONCERT~<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; text-align: center; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"></span></b><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; text-align: center; text-autospace: none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TGjB7WNI4wI/AAAAAAAAADk/RB3I1FLTtVs/s1600/topmel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TGjB7WNI4wI/AAAAAAAAADk/RB3I1FLTtVs/s400/topmel.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TGjB7WNI4wI/AAAAAAAAADk/RB3I1FLTtVs/s1600/topmel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><b></b></span></div><b></b><br />
<b><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline !important; text-align: center;"><div style="display: inline !important;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Benefit Concert at Gordon’s Park (18777 Hwy 6)</span></span></b></div></div></div></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><b></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><b><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Sunday, September 5</span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">th</span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">2pm-10pm<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">ALL PROCEEDS go to helping families with babies in the SICK KIDS HOSPITAL NICU in Toronto, Ontario</span></span></b><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Great entertainment and activities for young and old alike!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Camping-tipi/tent, cabins, heated pool, 18-hole mini-put--13 mins from the Chi-cheemaun ferry!</span></span></b><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Tickets will be sold in advance and at the door. If you cannot make it, please considering purchasing a ticket as a donation for this very worthy project!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">$10 for ages 16+<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">$5 for children 5-15<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">FREE for children under 4</span></span></b><b><span style="color: black; line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br />
</span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Featuring:<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-insideh: none; mso-border-insidev: none; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 480;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;"> <td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 261.0pt;" valign="top" width="489"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Harlow Solid Italic'; font-size: 18pt;">Introducing Bennett:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Harlow Solid Italic'; font-size: 10pt;">Brendan Pinand, Jason Girdwood, Peter Jones, <o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Harlow Solid Italic'; font-size: 10pt;">& Tedd Jensen<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></td> <td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 261.0pt;" valign="top" width="489"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Bauhaus 93'; font-size: 16pt;">Brand New Eyes:</span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Bauhaus 93'; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Bauhaus 93'; font-size: 9pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Bauhaus 93'; font-size: 10pt;">Cindy Thornton, Justin Lussier, Matt Bond, <o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Bauhaus 93'; font-size: 10pt;">Jason Girdwood, & Brendan Pinand<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;"> <td style="padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 261.0pt;" valign="top" width="489"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Broadway; font-size: 12pt;">LOW GUNS:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Broadway; font-size: 8pt;">Dwayne Trudeau & Luke Sellen<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Forte; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">& More</span><span style="font-family: Forte; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Food provided by </span></span></b><a href="http://www.manitoulinislanders.net/" target="_blank"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The Manitoulin Islanders</span></span></b></a><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">-come on out and support our local team!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">*This is a family event; please no alcohol, drugs, or dogs!<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">**Bring your own lawn chair.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">For more information:<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> Please contact Melissa Roy @ (705) 370-1583 or email </span></span></b><a href="mailto:nimkee.blessings@gmail.com" target="_blank"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">nimkee.blessings@gmail.com</span></span></b></a><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Or visit our Website at: </span></span></b><a href="http://www.nimkee-blessings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">www.nimkee-blessings.blogspot.com</span></span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div></div></b></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; text-align: center; text-autospace: none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TGjDTnX3erI/AAAAAAAAADs/_B53j5wl0mw/s1600/bottom-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="143" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TGjDTnX3erI/AAAAAAAAADs/_B53j5wl0mw/s400/bottom-poster.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><b><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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</div>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-89565984581157974852010-08-10T01:45:00.001-04:002010-08-17T11:27:36.975-04:00~The story behind WHY *~Nimkee Blessings~* is so inspired to host this BENEFIT CONCERT~~**~NIMKEE BLESSINGS & INTRODUCING BENNETT~**~will be hosting a benefit concert at Gordon's Park on beautiful Manitoulin Island...SUNDAY, SEPT 5th! We will have lots of great entertainment for young and old alike, & fun things for the kiddies to do!<br />
<br />
<br />
~Featured artists include: Introducing Bennett, Brand New Eyes, Low Guns, Tedd Jensen, Leslie Nishkiwe, Dave Southwood, CJ, Damien T, Michael S---& more to be announced---if you wanna play us a tune---some on out and join us, we'd love to have you!!<br />
<br />
<br />
~Advance tickets will be sold. If you cannot make it, please consider it as a donation to this very worthy project. <br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">$10 for ages 16+</span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">$5 for children 5-15</span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"></span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">FREE for children under 4</span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"><br />
</span></b><br />
<br />
~ALL PROCEEDS go towards helping families with babies in the SICK KIDS HOSPITAL NICU in Toronto, Ontario.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=107089974465910959442.00048d708deec976699ec&ll=45.669815%2C-81.962128&spn=0.014545%2C0.027595&t=h&z=15&iwloc=00048d709ed27ee6bb8e8">Google Map--location of Nimkee Blessings Benefit Concert</a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.gordonspark.com/">Gordon's Park Eco-Resort</a> is located: (from website)</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">~15 minutes from the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry Terminal. The Ferry sails May - October from Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula to South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">~Gordon's Park is situated 35 minutes from Little Current.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">~From Hwy 6 or 17, turn on to Hwy 6 at Espanola. Follow Hwy 6 through Little Current & Manitowaning. They are 15 minutes from Manitowaning, just before the Hwy 542 junction.</div><br />
<a href="http://my-baby-is-an-angel.blogspot.com/2010/04/reflections-of-our-final-day.html">http://my-baby-is-an-angel.blogspot.com/2010/04/reflections-of-our-final-day.html</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/TE3mSNUPPjI/AAAAAAAAAC0/hPHJQkI8sdI/s1600/NILMDTS++sample+III.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498303920575823410" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/TE3mSNUPPjI/AAAAAAAAAC0/hPHJQkI8sdI/s320/NILMDTS++sample+III.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 178px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 266px;" /></a><br />
<div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Words cannot describe the searing, heart-clutching pain that a parent feels in their chest the very moment that their baby has been 'pronounced'.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">"I'm very sorry, but he's gone.......</span></i></b><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">"</span></i></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">How do you take another breath, knowing your beloved has just taken his last? How can you fathom a future without this little person by your side, sharing first smiles, sloppy kisses, and giggles galore?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">One can't help but wonder "what do I do now? How will I get through this...."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The entire day was just a blur, with moments of vivid memories. I look back at our photographs taken during that final afternoon. The photographer's lens captured those heart wrenching images as we had to do the unthinkable.</span></div><div></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498303909306698818" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/TE3mRjVeDEI/AAAAAAAAACs/ahCRJ53xlCs/s320/NILMDTS+sample+IV.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 266px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 178px;" /><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"></span></span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">"How do you say farewell, when you've just held this tiny little being in your arms for the very first time</span></b></i><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> since he entered this world, outside your womb?"</span></b></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I remember walking out of the hospital that night, with empty arms. I hadn't taken a single breath of outdoor air in more than a week, since the day I entered the hospital to give birth 9 days earlier. I stayed by Bennett-Chadlen's bedside night and day, never wanting to be too far away in case the worst should suddenly occur. I wanted to be right there with him should they need to page me.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I stepped outside and took in a huge breath, and held it for a few moments. I could not believe what was happening.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">"It's not supposed to be this way".</span></i></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498304352575641426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/TE3mrWpBV1I/AAAAAAAAAC8/VmvP3IwamYk/s320/IMG_1156.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 266px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 199px;" /><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I was clutching a stuffed bunny in place of him, an Easter gift to Bennett-Chadlen from his brothers.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">In the days and weeks that followed I was able to look at the photos and feetprints. I cherish the hand and foot moulds that were made with my hands, and the hands of Nimkee's siblings.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> All of these items make him </span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">'real'</span></b></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I cannot hold his hand again, but I can see his tiny fingers and feet....a lock of his hair....his gold embossed feetprints with the 6 gorgeous toes....all thanks to the little things that were done for us before we left the hospital.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498446409572934882" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/TE5n4KMd5OI/AAAAAAAAADU/gHgiYwj23PM/s320/Nimkee%27s+Shrine008.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 199px; width: 266px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498446403864007378" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/TE5n307WktI/AAAAAAAAADM/Ws7EwEpUKTM/s320/Nimkee%27s+Shrine007.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; height: 199px; width: 266px;" /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Imagine knowing that your unborn child will be born with a devastating birth defect requiring a NICU stay immediately following birth.</span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Imagine giving birth to what you believe to be a healthy baby, during what you anticipated to be a routine labour and delivery---only to have your newborn baby go into fetal distress as he/she makes her debut into your life.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Premature birth is another cause of newborns which will often require a very lengthy stay of several months while the baby endures a lot of intensive care while the parents sit by, watching, waiting....praying.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Instead of being handed over into your loving and waiting arms, your newborn is whisked away abruptly, with few words but---"we're very sorry, but we'll do everything we can". How do you not panic in such a state?? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">This is why I am so dedicated to reaching out and helping other families in a similar situation. It's such a difficult and 'impossible-to-describe' scenerio.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">If a family is lucky, their baby receives the necessary treatment and heals quickly, returning home and back to their parent's waiting arms.....but for many this isn't the case. NICU's all over the world are filled with little ones that are often critically ill, or require a very lengthy NICU stay. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">These families find themselves in a place that they could never have imagined, beyond their worst nightmares. There is no way to prepare yourself for this journey. Please help me, to help other families that will have babies that require a NICU stay.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">A little bit of comfort goes a long way, and can touch a family's heart forever.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TGDmY2hs1ZI/AAAAAAAAACs/I5DidmS68t4/s1600/First+Kiss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TGDmY2hs1ZI/AAAAAAAAACs/I5DidmS68t4/s400/First+Kiss.jpg" width="267" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~Our First Kiss, he was 5 days old. I still hadn't held him in my arms~</span></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">~ Gzaagin Nimkee ~ We love you ~ Forever in our hearts ~ ♥ ~Tattooed on my soul~ ♥</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></div>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-36894567105353360862010-08-09T16:51:00.000-04:002010-08-09T16:52:52.032-04:00~PROJECT SWEET PEAS featured on Good Morning America!!<span style=" ;font-size:15.6px;" class="Apple-style-span"></span><br />
<div><object height="405" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/SEn04m3aoew&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/SEn04m3aoew&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="500" height="405"></embed></object></div><div><span style=" ;font-size:15.6px;" class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Refresh/video/pepsi-refresh-winner-project-sweet-peas-11257915">http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Refresh/video/pepsi-refresh-winner-project-sweet-peas-11257915</a></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">~On the morning of Tuesday, July 27th, ABC network's Good</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Morning America show did a feature story on </span><a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/default.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Project Sweet Peas</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the month of April, </span><a href="http://www.refresheverything.com/projectsweetpea"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Pepsi Refresh gave away $25,000 to Project Sweet Peas</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> for our</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> worthy mission to help families with babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> (NICU) at various hospitals. Our goal is to be able to provide </span><a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/giftbaginfo.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">gift bags</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> containing comfort and support items to</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> the many families that have a sick baby in the hospital, instead of at home in their loving arms.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499027285150072866" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_PK7LNnHogWE/TFB4LkWNACI/AAAAAAAAADk/ySnj1Ky9utQ/s320/Bennett-Mommy.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; height: 178px; width: 266px;" /></span></div><div><a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/aboutus.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Project Sweet Peas</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> is an organization made up of several families that have been through the NICU experience, and sadly, many families like my own--have lost our babies to various illnesses or birth defects.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Because we know what it feels like, we are extending our comfort and support to others, so that we may be able to touch their lives and let them know that they are not alone in this very difficult, healing journey.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/howtohelp.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Project Sweet Peas</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> specializes each bag for a boy--or a girl--and will also customize the various bags by </span><a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/giftbaginfo.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">holiday seasons, short-term or long-term NICU stays, and Memorial</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> bags for those babies that grow their wings much too soon.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you have any questions, or would like to donate, or request a bag for a loved one, please contact me here, or email me at melissa@projectsweetpeas.com</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Help spread the word about my project NIMKEE BLESSINGS, by joining my facebook page at this link: </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/NIMKEE.BLESSINGS?ref=ts"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">http://www.facebook.com/NIMKEE.BLESSINGS</span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">~Love, Peace, & </span><a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/NimkeeBlessings.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Nimkee Blessings</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> from my family, to yours,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Melissa xxoo</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">*</span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">More information may be found by following the various embedded links in this post*</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">**All proceeds from NIMKEE BLESSINGS will be donated to </span><a href="http://www.sickkids.ca/Neonatology/Who-We-Are/Our-History/index.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Hospital for Sick Children, aka Sick Kids Hospital</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.</span></span></div><div><span style=" ;font-size:large;" class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682791436206105323.post-75037751961426485172010-08-08T23:48:00.000-04:002010-08-09T21:56:08.880-04:00~OUR STORY~<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://projectsweetpeas.com/NimkeeBlessings.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">http://projectsweetpeas.com/NimkeeBlessings.aspx</span></span></a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TF96Uu4ZQ8I/AAAAAAAAAB8/YL8RnG3DrPQ/s1600/NIMKEE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zm8dbUew67o/TF96Uu4ZQ8I/AAAAAAAAAB8/YL8RnG3DrPQ/s320/NIMKEE.jpg" /></span></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 1px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 1px; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">In July 2006, I found out that I was unexpectedly expecting. I was scared, nervous, but elated and hopeful that this pregnancy would mean great things for me and my family. I embraced this new life that was growing inside of me, looking forward to our future together. I imagined what the next summer would be like with a new baby here. I pictured the next mother’s day with a little one in my arms. My boys were happy and excited….life was good.</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 1px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 1px; color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 1px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 1px; color: #0c343d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I called my midwife and arranged to begin my prenatal journey as healthy as possible. One day she was here to draw some blood for regular prenatal tests and she asked if I would like her to draw a little bit extra to send away for a ‘maternal serum test’. I had never opted for this in the past, but this time I said, “Sure, go for it, it will give me one less thing to worry about.” </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Several years ago in August of 1999, I delivered a stillborn son named Noah-Alexander. I already had 2 sons, and I went on to plan 2 more pregnancies after his birth. Each pregnancy was very nerve-wracking for obvious reasons, and every day of those subsequent pregnancies was a joy, and a struggle, and resulted in 2 more healthy sons. I told myself that lightning won’t strike twice and tried to relax and enjoy this new journey.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I remember the day that my midwife phoned to let me know she had some results for me. She stopped by to explain to me that there was a 1:8 chance of my baby having Trisomy 18. I had never heard of it. She told me it’s a chromosomal abnormality and that she had made me an appointment with a genetic counselor in the city nearly 2 hrs away. I attended that appointment and was told what Trisomy 18 is, and was offered termination, and/or a chance to have an amniocentesis performed. I opted for the amnio to find out for sure what we were possibly dealing with. I could not envision myself spending the duration of the pregnancy wondering what might happen.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I went to </span></span></span><city><place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Toronto</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">, nearly 8 hrs south of here, to </span></span></span><place><placename><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">North</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></span><placename><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">York</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></span><placename><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">General</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span></span></span><placetype><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Hospital</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> to have the amnio performed. I was frightened about the risks, but everything went fine. 3 days later I received the preliminary FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) test results which indicated that Trisomy 13 was detected in his cell sample. The final results came back a couple of weeks later and told me that I was expecting another son, and he did indeed have Full Trisomy 13, aka Patau Syndrome, in EVERY single cell of his entire body, meaning he had 3 copies of the 13th chromosome instead of just the 2 that he should have received—one from his father, one from myself.</span></span></span></placetype></placename></placename></placename></place></place></city></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">More information about Trisomy 13 and Bennett-Chadlen can be found here at this site: </span></span></span><a href="http://www.livingwithtrisomy13.org/MemoriesOfBennett.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">http://www.livingwithtrisomy13.org/MemoriesOfBennett.htm</span></span></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I chose to embrace my son’s diagnosis and give him as much love and comfort as I could during our time together. I was told that he may be premature, stillborn before Christmas, and I was very frightened as I remembered what I went through with Noah-Alexander so many years ago. This time I was prepared and decided to preplan his funeral arrangements in the event that it should occur suddenly. I wanted to be able to give him the type of service that I hadn’t been able to give to Noah. I knew that when or if it should happen, that I would be recovering from childbirth, and grieving, possibly unable to think clearly and plan as thoroughly as I would like to. I didn’t want to have any regrets.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I travelled to </span></span></span><city><place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Toronto</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> once again to have level II ultrasounds, and fetal echocardiograms to see if any birth defects could be detected. The doctors had noted the possibility of a non-severe Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia. I requested to have a Fetal MRI to see what we were dealing with. He had no organs up in his chest and his lungs developed normally, which was great news! These CDH babies do require immediate intubation at birth so that they don’t cry and possibly swallow air which could cause the internal organs and intestines to swell up and make it more difficult to fit everything back in place during the surgical repair. They were unable to see clearly if there was indeed a CDH, but we prepared for that just in case.</span></span></span></place></city></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I made arrangements to have the remainder of my prenatal appointments in </span></span></span><city><place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Toronto</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> at </span></span></span><place><placename><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Mount Sinai</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></span><placetype><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Hospital</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">, and Bennett-Chadlen would be transferred across the road and treated at the Hospital for Sick Children in </span></span></span><place><city><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Toronto</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">, </span></span></span><state><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Ontario</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">, </span></span></span><country-region><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Canada</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">.</span></span></span></country-region></state></city></place></placetype></placename></place></place></city></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Bennett-Chadlen was born on </span></span></span><date><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">March 29th, 2007</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">, 2 days overdue. He was very alert and responsive following birth and intubation and did not require the paralyzing sedatives because he was not fighting the ventilator. When I was able to see him for the first time, I spoke his name and he turned his head to look at me. He heard me and knew I was there! It was the most amazing feeling in the world. My friend quickly snapped a photo of him looking right at me, and another one looking at her because he saw the flash of the camera. I cherish these photos more than words can express.</span></span></span></date></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The surgeon came over to </span></span></span><place><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Mount Sinai</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"> to see him and told us the wonderful news that he appeared to be doing very well and may not require the surgical repair. He said he was transferring him to do further tests, and would be able to extubate Bennett-Chadlen if the hernia was not detected.</span></span></span></place></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The next time I saw my boy later in the day, he was unresponsive and on full life-support. He fought hard and lived his life in 8 days, passing away due to unexpected complications on Good Friday,</span></span></span><date><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">April 6th, 2007</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">. Easter is always a period of remembrance, as well as his birth and angel dates.</span></span></span></date></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">We miss him very much, and are very happy that we had the chance to hold him and sing to him as he passed away in our arms, surrounded by his siblings, family, and dear friends. </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">We had a chance to have a prenatal photo shoot taken by photographer Heather Renee Morgan of Lifespark.ca, and she also did a photo shoot while he was in the NICU. On his final day we had a photographer come from a wonderful organization called Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep and he took photos of all of us surrounding Nimkee with unconditional love. I highly recommend that all new mothers-to-be of babies who have been prenatally diagnosed with any type of possible complication should be sure and get these photo mementos to hold onto. I have made my photos into video montages, and display Bennett-Chadlen’s keepsakes in my home so others can know he is still very real to us.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">I want to be able to reach out and give love, comfort, and support to others as they to endure the difficult NICU days. It’s difficult to prepare for such an emotionally charged period, but we will strive to do our best to provide others with things that will help make the NICU experience a little more positive, comfortable and memorable.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">We will also make available some Bennett Blankets and Bennett Bunnies to give as sibling gifts. My boys have these and they sleep with them every night, drifting off to sleep cuddled in their baby brother’s “hugs”.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Much love, peace, and Nimkee blessings to you and yours……Melissa & family</span></span></span></div>Nimkee's Mumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01423614278333558781noreply@blogger.com0