Friday, February 29, 2008

But I'm not tired yet!


Thanks Maria!



Since Jack was born, it has always been tricky to find appropriate toys for him to help with his growth and development. Well...thanks to Maria and Toys-R-Us, they have teamed up to create a toy guide for differently-abled kids. The guide is to help parents navigate the world of toys so thatthey can get the right toy for their child. You can download the PDF or search toys on their website HERE.

Coincidence???



Just found out that my birthday, March 21st, is World Down Syndrome Day. So if any of you have been dying to get me a birthday gift (besides those of you I have already requested a Playstation 3 from), you can make a donation to your favorite DS charity on behalf of Rancho Jack, or just send me a card...or email...or just think of me during your morning coffee.

Monday, February 25, 2008

2008 NADS Bowlathon!


Our family will be participating in the 23rd Annual Bowl-A-Thon for the National Association of Down Syndrome (NADS) on Sunday, March 2, 2008 and would love your help in raising money for this great not-for-profit organization that primarily serves families in the Chicago metropolitan area. This is the first NADS event we are participating in, and we are excited and eager to get more involved with this community. Donations can be made on a "per pin" basis for the three games bowled, or for a flat amount.
When Jack was first diagnosed with Down Syndrome, the NADS organization was a source of support, by helping to answer some of our questions and by putting us in touch with another family in our neighborhood with a child with Down Syndrome. The experience of being able to talk with these parents, and more importantly, to meet their adorable 2 year old daughter, Maggie, was another source of comfort to us during an emotional time. We were very appreciative of that opportunity that was made possible through NADS.
Please know that the wonderful encouragement that you, our family and friends have provided is support enough – so please do not feel obligated! However, we know many of you would be upset if we didn't tell you about this opportunity to contribute to our efforts! If you would like to participate, please either contact us and let us know the amount (either a flat amount or a "per pin" pledge). If you would like to pay by check, please make payable to "NADS". We would like to submit as much of the payment on the day of the event (March 2) but will also collect afterwards (up until March 30).

1000 website hits!

1000! I never thought this day would come so quickly but thank you all very much for visiting Rancho Jack! Would love to hear what all of you think so please post more comments!

Enjoying a little R&R


Jack and Papa playing cowboys and indians

Jack and Papa comparing landing techniques


HMMM...I'm thinking exit number 5 might be best.


Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Jack does Nick Nolte


Rancho Jack Online Store NOW OPEN!

Due to the overwhelming demand (by my wife) I have made an online store with all new Rancho Jack merchandise! I started this website to help spread the word on Jack's doings and bring awareness to Down Syndrome. And since it isn't about making money, ALL sales will be donated to NADS (National Association for Down Syndrome) for research.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

Monday, February 4, 2008

Two new friends of Rancho Jack - to keep in your prayers

This is a post by Vicki (Rancho Mom)......
Dave and I wanted to share a story that is unfolding right now, and ask everyone to keep the Owyang family in your thoughts and prayers. Gordon is my co-worker at Gartner, and he and his wife Jenn-Jen are going through a difficult time as their twin girls were born premature and are in critical care in the NICU. Please keep baby girls Katelynn and Daria, as well as their parents and big brother Adam (5 yrs.) in your prayers.
Gordon is posting updates to this blog - and the updates are so heartfelt, spiritual and touching, that we wanted to make them available to the Rancho community.
http://owyang.wordpress.com/

Vicki