Rainy Family Day

The University presented a Family Day during the Film Festival. There were lots of events in which to participate, but the day was very rainy and it was crowded inside the building.

I wanted to take the kids especially for the instrument Petting Zoo--where kids could get up close and personal with different instruments and students that play them. Vivian tried almost every one, and got a sound out of everything she attempted except the trumpet. Elena didn't have as much luck; her mouth muscles and breath support are not as strong. She still enjoyed trying, and especially liked the cello.

Testing the Cello

Playing the Trombone!

Playing in the rain

A blog reader recently commented on what we do in rain, given Elena only has one pair of shoes, really. I found a pair of "overshoes" on amazon.com and they work beautifully in rain! There are several styles available, but the sizing is questionable. Elena wears a size 2.5 New Balance shoe, and the size overshoe we bought is a size "S/M". The overshoes are not high quality, and they are hard to get on/off but they do work well for our purposes. This has been the first time E could really stomp/splash in a puddle!

Her umbrella hat continues to be of good use also. The attachments on the head band are a little uncomfortable, so I think I"ll be making some changes by sewing on a sweatband of sorts.

Rain Ensemble

Another change of note: look at her crutch tips. These are called Flexy Foot crutch tips, and they are awesome! For some reason, Elena has been wearing through her regular crutch tips--about 3 pair per month. She's been growing, and I hadn't realized this wear and tear with her last pair of crutches, but it is what it is. These Flexy Foot crutch tips have lasted over a month, are still in great shape, and have helped ease her fatigue while getting around on crutches. They are expensive; I bought them for $35.00 per tip (they do have replaceable end caps, which I haven't had to buy yet) but right now, I think it's worth the cost.