# Clay Harris, EOS Implementer > Clay Harris is a Certified EOS Implementer based in Chapel Hill, NC, and he loves typing in the third person and helping entrepreneurs get everything they want from their business. Public Ghost content for AI and LLM tooling. This file includes a bounded export of public pages first, then recent public posts. Append `.md` to any post or page URL to get the content in Markdown (for example, `/example-post.md`). ## Pages ### About You URL: https://clayharris.com/about-you/ Last updated: 2025-09-21T15:39:08.000Z Clients don't turn to EOS because they're failing. They are running profitable and growing companies. Clients turn to EOS because they know it can be better. More profit, easier growth, less headaches, more feeling of control, less chaos. Good news: running a successful business and being frustrated at the same time - it just means you're normal. ### Running your business will never be easy. But it can be *easier.* Rather than becoming resigned to the frustration, I'd like you to consider the possibility of having your cake and eating it too. What if it the success came with more ease and peace of mind. Maybe even some enjoyment? That's where I can help. I work with entrepreneurs and their leadership teams to build healthier and happier businesses and lives by implementing the simple and proven tools and disciplines of the Entrepreneurial Operating System. ### I implemented **EOS** in my business in 2013, when it was starting to just feel *off*. - We weren’t on the same page about what ‘growth’ meant. - Meetings were ineffective and unstructured. - Our approach to hiring and firing was inconsistent. - I felt like I was always reacting - I could never take time to look forward. EOS helped my business get on track and helped propel **4x growth** in the following years. I discovered my passion - helping other entrepreneurs and their leadership teams get the most from their businesses and lives - and would love to share my experience, and EOS, with you and your team. ## Free 90-Minute Consultation Subscribers can schedule a free 90-minute consultation. Schedule Email sent! Check your inbox to complete your signup. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. ### Recommended Reading URL: https://clayharris.com/recommended-reading/ Last updated: 2025-10-03T14:34:48.000Z - [Traction](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007QWLLV2?tag=clayharrise0c-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1&ref=clayharris.com), Gino Wickman - [Rocket Fuel](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1942952317?tag=clayharrise0c-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1&ref=clayharris.com), Gino Wickman & Mark Winters ### EOS Mastery Series - [Process](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1637741367?tag=clayharrise0c-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1&ref=clayharris.com), Mike Paton & Lisa Gonzalez - [Data](https://www.amazon.com/dp/163774613X?tag=clayharrise0c-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1&ref=clayharris.com), Mark O'Donnell, Angela Kalemis, & Mark Stanley - [People](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1637744366?tag=clayharrise0c-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1&ref=clayharris.com), Mark O'Donnell, Kelly Knight, & CJ Dube ### Additional Resources - [Good to Great](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003VXI5MS?tag=clayharrise0c-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1&ref=clayharris.com), Jim Collins - [Five Dysfunctions of a Team](https://amzn.to/4gbg7X6?ref=clayharris.com), Patrick Lencioni - [Rocket Fuel](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1942952317?tag=clayharrise0c-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1&ref=clayharris.com), Gino Wickman & Mark Winters ### Clay's Recent Reads [![Annihilation](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1403941587l/17934530._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17934530-annihilation?ref=clayharris.com "Annihilation (Southern Reach, #1)") [![James](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1704107491l/173754979._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/173754979-james?ref=clayharris.com "James") [![The Let Them Theory](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1735589383l/216351768._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/216351768-the-let-them-theory?ref=clayharris.com "The Let Them Theory") [![Razorblade Tears](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1636739235l/54860585._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54860585-razorblade-tears?ref=clayharris.com "Razorblade Tears") [![Positive Intelligence: Why Only 20% of Teams and Individuals Achieve Their True Potential and How You Can Achieve Yours](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1344719507l/13221308._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13221308-positive-intelligence?ref=clayharris.com "Positive Intelligence: Why Only 20% of Teams and Individuals Achieve Their True Potential and How You Can Achieve Yours") [![Intermezzo](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1716387455l/208931300._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208931300-intermezzo?ref=clayharris.com "Intermezzo") [![Where the World Ends](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1485165987l/33148519._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33148519-where-the-world-ends?ref=clayharris.com "Where the World Ends") [![Burn](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1699934842l/202102018._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202102018-burn?ref=clayharris.com "Burn") [![Simple Numbers, Straight Talk, Big Profits!: 4 Keys to Unlock Your Business Potential](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1347366465l/12661583._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12661583-simple-numbers-straight-talk-big-profits?ref=clayharris.com "Simple Numbers, Straight Talk, Big Profits!: 4 Keys to Unlock Your Business Potential") [![The Circle](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1376419833l/18302455._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18302455-the-circle?ref=clayharris.com "The Circle (The Circle, #1)") [![This Time Tomorrow](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1635860014l/59089704._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59089704-this-time-tomorrow?ref=clayharris.com "This Time Tomorrow") [![The Last Ranger](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1684817837l/63249808._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63249808-the-last-ranger?ref=clayharris.com "The Last Ranger") [![Blizzard](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1675522982l/61783821._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61783821-blizzard?ref=clayharris.com "Blizzard") [![Descent](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1410170967l/20312459._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20312459-descent?ref=clayharris.com "Descent") [![Happiness Falls](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1693315671l/75495002._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75495002-happiness-falls?ref=clayharris.com "Happiness Falls") [![The Women](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1733493019l/127305853._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127305853-the-women?ref=clayharris.com "The Women") [![The Nightingale](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1681839850l/21853621._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21853621-the-nightingale?ref=clayharris.com "The Nightingale") [![The Suicide Museum](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1678846261l/64623135._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/64623135-the-suicide-museum?ref=clayharris.com "The Suicide Museum") [![North Woods](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1681076428l/75569082._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75569082-north-woods?ref=clayharris.com "North Woods") [![Lessons in Chemistry](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1714630953l/206305528._SX98_.jpg)](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/206305528-lessons-in-chemistry?ref=clayharris.com "Lessons in Chemistry") ### About Clay URL: https://clayharris.com/about-clay/ Last updated: 2026-08-25T11:42:30.000Z ### I’m a **dad**, entrepreneur, and Certified EOS Implementer. I started an IT services company with friends my senior year of college, way back in 2001\. Over the next ten years, the business slowly grew to $5M in revenue and 30 team members – and then got stuck there for a while. I read book after book but still had trouble putting all the theory into practice. Then a friend gave me a copy of [Traction](https://amzn.to/4iZ3FKh?ref=clayharris.com) (thanks Ed), It clicked, and very quickly I found a local EOS Implementer and began to implement EOS. Over the next six years. the business grew to $20M+ revenue and 100+ team members. It worked. Over that time, I fell in love with building and coaching our leadership team, and it became clear to me that’s where I should dedicate my time: helping owners and their leadership teams get everything they want out of their business. I’ve been in your shoes, and I would be honored to guide you and your team on your EOS journey. Briefly: - 20 yrs running IT services company - M&A experience – 8 transactions - Operating from Chapel Hill, NC; servicing clients in-person in the Southeast and virtually across the globe. - Dad to two great kiddos, Zoe and Nora - Tar Heel (but it’s ok if you’re not) **Kolbe**: Fact Finder 4, Follow-Through 4, Quick Start 7, Implementor 5 **Working Genius**: Discernment, Galvanizing **StrengthsFinder**: Achiever, Harmony, Relator, Responsibility, Focus Important note: I’m a Tar Heel. My fellow Tar Heels find it odd I pull for Duke in the NCAA Tournament. My dream is the Tar Heels and Blue Devils meeting in the National Championship every. single. year. I hope you're a Tar Heel. It's ok if you're not - sometimes it's more fun that way. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/08/eg6s78s5l2sg1.jpeg) Vince Carter, Julius Peppers, Ronald Curry, Makhtar N'Diaye, Antawn Jamison ### EOS Resources URL: https://clayharris.com/eos-resources/ Last updated: 2025-09-26T19:24:16.000Z - [Strety](https://2.strety.com/clay-harris-6cf968/join?ref=clayharris.com) \- the only tool you need to help run EOS in your organization. - [ENRG](https://www.enrg.life/?ref=clayharris.com) \- Peer Group for Visionaries and Integrators leading companies running on EOS. - [EOS Academy](https://academy.eosworldwide.com/?ref=clayharris.com) ### BMT Offices, LLC @ 605 W Main St URL: https://clayharris.com/605-w-main-st-in-carrboro-nc/ Last updated: 2026-01-30T15:17:09.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/01/605-W-Main-St-Carrboro-NC-Primary-Photo-1-Large.jpg) My company, BMT Offices, LLC recently purchased Suite 206 in this beautiful building in downtown Carrboro - 605 W Main Street Currently, all 5 suites in the space are occupied for 2026, but check here for future openings! ### Strety Live Session: Scorecards URL: https://clayharris.com/strety/ Last updated: 2026-03-24T14:35:59.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/03/image.png) Thanks for joining the Strety webinar on Scorecards! If you're interested in learning more about implementing EOS with an implementer, or just want to go deeper on your scorecard, [Schedule 30 minutes with Clay ](https://calendly.com/clayharris/strety-scorecard-review?ref=clayharris.com) ### Stay in touch! - Connect on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayharris/?ref=clayharris.com) - Subscribe to the All 10's Podcast: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@All10sPodcast?ref=clayharris.com) | [Apple Podcasts](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-10s-podcast/id1810811928?ref=clayharris.com) | [Spotify](http://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/all10spodcast?ref=clayharris.com) - Join an ENRG Peer Group: [Raleigh-Durham](https://enrg.life/locations/north-carolina/raleigh-nc/?ref=clayharris.com) | [Find a group near you](https://enrg.life/locations/?ref=clayharris.com) - Join the list for my monthly newsletter - hit the Subscribe button up top! ### Testimonials URL: https://clayharris.com/testimonials/ Last updated: 2026-08-12T20:12:20.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/08/1-1.png) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/08/2.png) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/08/3.png) ## Posts ### EOS Model - Data Component URL: https://clayharris.com/eos-model-data-component/ Last updated: 2026-08-25T11:25:57.000Z Numbers don’t lie. Having an objective view on what’s working and not working in the business is critical. Clay and Josh discuss why EOS Scorecards are prediction tools that indicate issues in the business and should not be used for reporting. Further, they introduce methods to help determine great measurables. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@All10sPodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-10s-podcast/id1810811928 Spotify: http://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/all10spodcast This episode is brought to you by our friends at Strety! Learn more here: http://all10spod.com/strety ### EOS Model - People Component URL: https://clayharris.com/eos-model-people-component/ Last updated: 2026-08-20T00:17:22.000Z 82% of small business owners cite people as their #1 frustration. Right people in the right seats is a simple concept, but not easy to achieve. Josh and Clay tackle people issues through the EOS tools and share some nuggets beyond the tools. YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@All10sPodcast](https://www.youtube.com/@All10sPodcast?ref=clayharris.com) Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-10s-podcast/id1810811928 Spotify: http://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/all10spodcast This episode is brought to you by our friends at Strety! Learn more here: http://all10spod.com/strety ### Phil Harvey Center for Entrepreneurship URL: https://clayharris.com/phil-harvey-center-for-entrepreneurship/ Last updated: 2026-08-12T20:20:37.000Z I'm excited to be a part of this new program being built by the [Hillsborough Orange County Chamber of Commerce](https://www.hillsboroughchamber.com/?ref=clayharris.com). Months ago, Scott Czechlewski called me with an idea to start the center and we did a bit of brainstorming on how to integrate EOS into the center. Here we are today with a fully formed idea ready to launch. Amazing work by Scott to get this across the finish line with exceptional support from the community and [PHE](https://www.pheinc.com/?ref=clayharris.com)'s generous sponsorship. Know an entrepreneur with a great idea in Hillsborough? Make sure they apply! [Entrepreneurship CenterAccelerate Your Entrepreneurial Journey The Phil Harvey Center for Entrepreneurship, presented by PHE, Inc. and powered by the Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce, will open in October 2026\. Mission Statement To positively impact the greater Hillsborough area by leveraging local resources and talent to support entrepreneurship, nurture area start-ups and promote job creation. Who…![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/icon/cropped-hillsborough-favicon-270x270-218f6945-ffe6-4c87-9645-d73026930861.png)Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/thumbnail/Entrepreneurship-Center-LOGO-MASTER-bb32fd2f-69e1-4499-82a2-a85c6c46e7a1.jpg)](https://www.hillsboroughchamber.com/entrepreneurship-center/?ref=clayharris.com) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/08/Social-Media-ad-MASTER-DESIGN-1.png) ### EOS Model: Vision URL: https://clayharris.com/eos-model-vision/ Last updated: 2026-08-10T14:15:53.000Z Founders have a vision for their business, but many of them fail to clearly define and share it with their teams. Clay and Josh go beyond the V/TO and discuss how teams can bring life to the words on the page and go deeper with their teams. ### Special Guest: Lucas Petty of AI Daddy URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-lucas-petty-of-ai-daddy/ Last updated: 2026-08-05T14:24:09.000Z Many business owners are experimenting with AI and others aren’t sure where to start. Lucas Petty of AI Daddy joins Josh and Clay to advocate for a Managed AI Department approach that includes education and training, your AI tech stack, and focusing on specific projects. ### Back to School URL: https://clayharris.com/back-to-school/ Last updated: 2026-08-01T15:28:30.000Z Once a year I ask my clients for introductions. This is that month. Why August? I'm beginning my third year as an EOS Implementer. I graduated EOS 'bootcamp' in August 2024\. I left bootcamp singularly focused on finding my first client. As my daughters go back to school in a few weeks, I want to get that energy too - back to the grind, back to producing results. That's why August. I was lucky to find you as a client. I was luckier to sit down in a session room with you to share a few laughs and roll up our sleeves. You've been kind to me and we've done great work. I'm grateful for you. The transition to becoming an EOS implementer is a big deal for me. I'm passionate about the work we're doing together - *to make sure you get everything you want out of your business and your life*. This month's email doesn't have a deep dive. It has a simple request. ****I'm ready to roll up my sleeves for 6 more clients in the coming year. I need help finding them.** The next time you are talking to a leader of a company with 50-500 employees who can't quite figure out how to break through whatever is in their way, please introduce me. Include me on an intro message at clay@clayharris.com or 919-452-5390\. I'll reply quickly and with care. Next month, back to regular programming. --- This is the EOS proven process. You've done it. You can share this with anyone so they know what to expect. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/08/image.png) --- [Clay Harris | EOS Implementer | EOS WorldwideGreat leadership teams are unstoppable. I help entrepreneurs align, stay accountable, and execute with purpose—and a little fun.![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/icon/cropped-eos-logo-icon-dfc8201f-535b-45bc-8833-f06fa884bfac.webp)EOS Implementer MicrositeView All Posts![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/thumbnail/Harris.Clay-ASP_9467-sub-300k-8ff1ac06-eac2-466b-86d0-4d3cfdd7af37.jpeg)](https://implementer.eosworldwide.com/clay-harris/?ref=clayharris.com) Clay's Official EOS Website ### When it rains... URL: https://clayharris.com/when-it-rains/ Last updated: 2026-07-29T14:54:58.000Z **Sunday 5pm** RDU for a direct flight to O'Hare for a Monday session. **Monday 12pm** The session gets quiet as the storm clouds completely darken the sky **Monday 4pm** Phone notification, flight cancelled. It's pouring outside. **Monday 5pm** Uber to O'Hare, book a later flight from the car. Crisis averted, I'll be home in time for Tuesday's virtual session. **Monday 7pm** Backup flight cancelled. Scramble to find a hotel and an Apple Store. I didn't bring my laptop. Booked the hotel for two nights so I can keep the room long enough for the session. **Monday 8pm** Laptop in hand, get it setup for Tuesday's session. Book a flight home Tuesday night. Local news says folks think they saw a tornado. In Chicago. 300,000+ without power. **Tuesday 4pm** Session complete, 9.8\. Best quarter ever. On the way to the Uber, let the front desk know I don't need the second night, I'm headed home. "Refund me if you can sell the room!" and laughed - I'll never see that refund. **Tuesday 6pm** Grabbing some dinner at O'Hare, three notifications hit at once: AA's computer systems are down, tornado warning at home in Chapel Hill, tonights flight cancelled. **Tuesday 7pm** No other flights home available tonight. Call the hotel - they sold the room already (and confirmed a refund)! Three more calls, all hotels are full. Expand search, find a room. Book flight home on a different airline because, well, fool me once, etc. **Wednesday 5AM** Uber to O'Hare. Clear with TSA Precheck comes in handy at a busy airport. **Wednesday 11AM** Home. Finally. ### Lessons from the Session: Accountability Chart URL: https://clayharris.com/lessons-from-the-session-accountability-chart/ Last updated: 2026-07-22T18:24:43.000Z The Accountability Chart is one of the foundational tools in EOS. Clay and Josh dive into taking a structure-centric view of the Accountability Chart opposed to the more common people-centric view. They also examine the possibility of creating people issues that are rooted in poor seat and structure design. This episode is brought to you by our friends at Strety! Learn more here: http://all10spod.com/strety YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@All10sPodcast](https://www.youtube.com/@All10sPodcast?ref=clayharris.com) Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-10s-podcast/id1810811928 Spotify: http://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/all10spodcast ### ENRG Raleigh is humming! URL: https://clayharris.com/enrg-raleigh-is-humming/ Last updated: 2026-07-16T17:12:52.000Z _No content available._ ### The EOS Model URL: https://clayharris.com/the-eos-model/ Last updated: 2026-07-16T17:15:18.000Z While working with entrepreneurs, EOS founder Gino Wickman noticed that the issues they resolved were ultimately rooted in weaknesses in one of six key components. Clay and Josh unpack each component that comprises the EOS model and what is required to be 100% strong in each component. This episode is brought to you by our friends at Strety! Learn more here: http://all10spod.com/strety YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@All10sPodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/all-10s-podcast/id1810811928 Spotify: http://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/all10spodcast ### Vision. Traction. Healthy? URL: https://clayharris.com/vision-traction-healthy/ Last updated: 2026-07-09T15:52:46.000Z Vision. Traction. Healthy. Those are EOS Worldwide’s three uniques. They’re what make EOS stand out; when you’re implementing EOS, you’re working on all three. Not just one or two. But I want to zoom in on *Healthy* today, as it’s the least direct aspect of EOS implementation. You’ve heard me say it at the beginning of every session we’ve done together. My expectations for you fall into three buckets (*see below for more details on these*): 1. Open & Honest for the Greater Good 2. Run One Meeting 3. "Animal Rules" Those expectations are key ingredients for *Healthy* and I hope you take those ideas with you as you run your team meetings and interact with your team members. They work outside of the office too, FYI. So that’s one place we address *Healthy*, though a bit indirectly. Then, in our annual sessions, we address team health using the lens of Patrick Lencioni’s *Five Dysfunctions of a Team*, locking in on **trust** as a key ingredient of building *Healthy*. From there, we have a menu of trust-building tools to go through as a team and to take into the rest of the company. You should do a trust builder with your teams once per quarter. And that’s it; the baseline expectations of how we interact with one another + a regular rhythm to build trust. *Healthy.* But there’s another layer we don’t specifically address. It’s the part of *Healthy* inside your head. This was the case for me personally; in my own business and EOS practice, **I was the person holding it back.** We were clear and aligned on our Vision. We had great Traction - teams were executing with discipline and accountability. Even then, I was perpetually disgruntled and disappointed we weren’t doing things *perfectly*. **Not *Healthy***. If this sounds familiar to you (maybe for yourself, maybe for a colleague), I have good news for you - it’s just normal. Everyone has their own internal *saboteurs* getting in the way of *Healthy*. You can’t get rid of them but you can quiet them. It works for me (*not all the time, but most of the time!*). How? I found an operating system for my brain in the book *Positive Intelligence*. [![CTA Image](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/07/PQ-Book-Cover-960x720.jpg)](https://forms.gle/ZrWWWr77BjeE8mxs6?ref=clayharris.com) I want to share a copy with you. Fill out the form below and I’ll put a book in the mail. Simple. My only request? After you take the **Saboteur Assessment* you give me a call and we compare notes. [Submit this form to receive a copy ](https://forms.gle/ZrWWWr77BjeE8mxs6?ref=clayharris.com) --- ## **All 10s Podcast - “Help! Nothing is Working”** --- ## **Deeper Dive on Meeting Expectations** ### **Open & Honest for the Greater Good** - Open: Listen like you have something more to learn. Approach your team with wisdom - you know a lot, but know there’s more you don’t know. - Honest: Share your insight and opinion with kindness and authenticity. - Greater good: Show up with *genuine care and concern* and in honor of *every single word on the V/TO (from Core Values on down)* ### **Run One Meeting** - No technology - whether or not you’re distracted, there’s a high likelihood your technology is distracting someone else. - No sidebars - one conversation, one experience. - Break together - when any one person needs a break, we take a break. In it together and always working on alignment, which is impossible without full participation. ### **"Animal Rules"** - No bullshit. *See Open & Honest / Greater Good* - Don’t chase squirrels. *Let’s talk about the important stuff and trust competent folks will handle the details after the meeting.* - Don’t beat a dead horse. *Once the issue is identified, discuss & hear from everyone, and solve for the next step. Please stop talking now - we’ve figured it out.* - No sacred cows. *When the answer to “Why” is “because we’ve always done it that way” it’s time to make a change.* - Address the elephant in the room. *Sometimes the issue you see clearly is a blind spot for a colleague or team. Invite a conversation about the issue. Just do it with the greater good in mind.* ### Outside the Guide: State of the Company URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-state-of-the-company/ Last updated: 2026-07-06T18:07:30.000Z All-Hands. Town Halls. State of the Company. Whatever you name it, make sure that you’re gathering all staff on a quarterly basis to discuss the immediate past, present, and future of the organization. Josh and Clay offer the finer points of facilitating this special meeting, the benefits of being a transparent leadership team, and how to create clarity and alignment across the entire business. ### Outside the Guide: Fill the Funnel URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-fill-the-funnel/ Last updated: 2026-07-06T18:07:48.000Z Everyone wants more sales. Josh and Clay share multiple perspectives and tactics to help marketing and sales teams acquire more customers including valuable insights your current customers can provide, how to address tight buying windows, and approaching sales as a series of events. ### Special Guest: Scott Rusnak of ScottRusnak.com URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-scott-rusnak-of-scottrusnak-com/ Last updated: 2026-07-06T18:08:03.000Z Either you design your life or someone will do it for you. Scott Rusnak joins Clay and Josh to share concepts from his bestselling book Who is the Architect of Your Life? Specifically, how to organize your days into energy zones, as well as planning the next 12-18 months to ensure you’re spending time with the most important people in your life. ### Lessons from the Sessions: Focus Day URL: https://clayharris.com/lessons-from-the-sessions-focus-day/ Last updated: 2026-07-06T18:37:24.000Z Traction first, Vision second can feel abrupt and awkward. Josh and Clay share some recent experiences they’ve had during their first full day session with new clients. They expose the insights their clients gain and some of the epiphanies they’ve had as coaches related to starting teams on their EOS journey ### Outside the Guide: Non-Cash Compensation URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-non-cash-compensation/ Last updated: 2026-07-06T18:37:49.000Z It’s not all about the Benjamins. Clay and Josh round out their compensation series sharing experiences from their pasts related to benefits and other forms of non-cash compensation. They encourage listeners to think creatively and account for their geography, company size, and financial health when implementing additional employment benefits and upgrades to the workplace environment. ### Right People / Right Seat URL: https://clayharris.com/right-people-right-seat/ Last updated: 2026-06-04T11:52:04.000Z We’re rounding into summer here in Chapel Hill - we found the box with the flip flops after our move. We also had a fence installed, and when I shared that with a friend recently, he asked if I had done it myself. I definitely do not GWC a fence-building seat. Many of my recent sessions have had an accountability chart focus as well. A handful of new clients have had their “Focus Day” sessions, during which we spend a lot of time on Accountability Chart, and a few other clients are considering and/or implementing significant Accountability Chart changes. You might be wondering why, then, did I use the headline of Right People / Right Seat? The reason is that exact tension is what I want to dig into! You probably use the People Analyzer tool often - in Quarterly Conversations with your team, when trying to put your finger on something that “feels off” with a team member, etc. It’s a functional and simple tool to use quickly. Here’s what I hear in sessions often when asking about RP/RS issues - “*Jane is below the bar on Core Values*” or “*John doesn’t GWC their seat*.” And that’s fine! It’s likely you will always have an issue or two like that to deal with. But don’t stop there! If you have recurring RP/RS issues, please make sure you’re not assuming the Accountability Chart is in good order! A few reminders for you on how to build your Accountability Chart: 1. The Accountability Chart (AC) should be future oriented. What is the right structure to get your one year plan all the way done. The Accountability Chart should not be a reflection of the past - if it hasn’t changed in a while, it probably needs to! 2. The AC should be created with a function-first mindset. What are the key functions needed by the company? What are the roles of those functions in your organization? Do not build your AC for your current team. The AC serves the company you’re building, regardless of who is in what seat. 3. Build the AC to organize the human energy of the company into the right teams to solve issues that come up as quickly as possible, and create clear accountability for those teams to get the right work done. Is your team organized in a way and with the clarity of purpose to solve the right issues as quickly as possible? ✅ **What’s an issue in the organization that frustrates you right now? Is there clarity on your AC on which teams or people own that issue? Or is the accountability scattered across multiple seats and teams? Is there a way to make it simpler? Are you sure?* Ultimately, the Accountability Chart is one of the five foundational tools of EOS. The People Analyzer is not. If you have the feeling you’re dealing with more People issues than you should be, your instinct might be to reach for the People Analyzer. Do that! But maybe after you take a closer look at your Accountability Chart using the simple list: 1. Is this the right AC for the next 6-12 months? 2. Are all seats defined clearly and correctly from a company-first perspective? 3. Are the teams on the AC put together in a way that allows teams to solve problems quickly and as autonomously as possible? --- ### All 10's on Accountability Chart --- ### Three new things A few things I've been working on: 1. [**Headstart**](https://processheadstart.lovable.app/?ref=clayharris.com)**:** Upload your accountability chart and process documents, assign training to seats, and use AI to generate quizzes to get a gauge on team members' comprehension. I vibe-coded this, have two clients using it, and would love to get your feedback if you have time. [https://processheadstart.lovable.app](https://processheadstart.lovable.app/?ref=clayharris.com) 2. [**Profit Works Coaching**](https://www.profitworksllc.com/?ref=clayharris.com)**:** At my IT company, we had a company-wide incentive plan based on the book Profit Works by Alex Freytag. I'm now licensed and certified to help design and implement incentive plans for others using his framework. Happy to send a copy of the book to anyone struggling with creating relevant incentive structures for their organization. [https://www.profitworksllc.com](https://www.profitworksllc.com/?ref=clayharris.com) 3. [**Data Workshop in Raleigh**](https://unstoppable-biz.com/?ref=clayharris.com): Not my creation, but this has been popular in the EOS community around the country. $995 per person, full-day workshop with some pretty impressive guarantees (and actual results). [https://unstoppable-biz.com](https://unstoppable-biz.com/?ref=clayharris.com) --- A REQUEST My most recent client came from a referral - I'm happy to speak with anyone who might benefit from EOS in their business. Most of the time, I just send them a copy of Traction, and sometimes they become happy clients. If you know someone, please copy me on an introductory email. Who I'm looking for: A founder or leader in a 50-250 person company who is ready to get more of what they want for their business, but is feeling frustrated by people, money, going too slow. ### Special Guest: Benjie Hughes of Hopeless Marketing URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-benjie-hughes-of-hopeless-marketing/ Last updated: 2026-07-06T18:38:08.000Z Benjie Hughes of Hopeless Marketing swings into the podcast to share his experiences of being a founder wearing too many hats to his journey of helping those very same founders. As a marketing expert, he outlines the importance of optimizing conversions before increasing awareness, driving iterative improvement, and the discipline of being patient. ### Outside the Guide: Sales Comp URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-sales-comp/ Last updated: 2026-05-26T17:44:01.000Z _No content available._ ### Trust the Process URL: https://clayharris.com/trust-the-process/ Last updated: 2026-05-12T12:18:23.000Z _This post is for paying subscribers only._ ### Special Guest: Clare Price of Octain Growth Systems URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-clare-price-of-octain-growth-systems/ Last updated: 2026-05-12T12:23:19.000Z [Sponsored by Strety](https://all10spod.com/strety?ref=clayharris.com) [Special offer from Clare & Octain.](https://all10spod.com/octain?ref=clayharris.com) ### Special Guest: Brian Dosal of Strety URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-brian-dosal-of-strety/ Last updated: 2026-05-12T12:21:00.000Z _No content available._ ### Lessons from the Sessions: Q1 2026 Recap URL: https://clayharris.com/lessons-from-the-sessions-q1-2026-recap/ Last updated: 2026-05-12T12:14:46.000Z [Sponsored by Strety](https://all10spod.com/strety?ref=clayharris.com) ### Special Guest: Julia Hanold of OrangeDot URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-julia-hanold-of-orangedot/ Last updated: 2026-04-23T10:33:12.000Z _No content available._ ### Outside the Guide: Communicate Like a Professional URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-communicate-like-a-professional/ Last updated: 2026-04-17T16:55:51.000Z _No content available._ ### Special Guest: Jane Holmes of Dahlia TalentEQ URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-jane-holmes-of-dahlia-talenteq/ Last updated: 2026-04-16T11:59:00.000Z _No content available._ ### Spring Break 2026 URL: https://clayharris.com/spring-break-2026/ Last updated: 2026-04-21T18:58:27.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0408.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0413.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0416.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0420.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0421.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0443.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0460.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0464.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0489.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0519.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0535.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0551.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/04/IMG_0555.jpeg) ### Scorecards URL: https://clayharris.com/scorecards-post/ Last updated: 2026-04-23T10:16:56.000Z _This post is for paying subscribers only._ ### Outside the Guide: Compensation - Philosophy & Process URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-compensation-philosophy-process/ Last updated: 2026-04-17T16:56:38.000Z _No content available._ ### Outside the Guide: Compensation - The Basics URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-compensation-the-basics/ Last updated: 2026-04-16T11:55:32.000Z Payroll is typically the largest cost associated with running a business. Josh and Clay kick off a series about compensation and benefits with a healthy discussion about salary vs hourly staff, overtime, tracking hours, and mandatory vs non-mandatory events outside of business hours. ### Special Guest: Martha Gordash of Success Profit Planning URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-martha-gordash-of-success-profit-planning/ Last updated: 2026-04-16T11:56:35.000Z Only looking at your financial statements and numbers once per year during tax season is not enough. Martha Gordash, Founder and CEO of Success Profit Planning, a financial services firm that assists small businesses with profitability and cash flow, stops by the pod to share her insights and experiences to help business owners achieve a high level of financial acumen throughout their organization. ### Special Guest: Rachel Sutton of Oak Ledger URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-rachel-sutton-of-oak-ledger/ Last updated: 2026-03-11T01:31:43.000Z The three financial statements are not isolated. Rather, they are connected and related to each other. Rachel Sutton, Co-Founder and CPA of Oak Ledger shares her best practices for business owners to configure their statements in a way that works for them while remaining financially accurate and GAAP compliant. ### Outside the Guide: Financial Statements - Cash Flow Statement URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-financial-statements-cash-flow-statement/ Last updated: 2026-03-11T01:32:06.000Z _No content available._ ### March Meeting Pulse Madness URL: https://clayharris.com/march-meeting-pulse-madness-2/ Last updated: 2026-04-23T10:21:20.000Z _This post is for paying subscribers only._ ### 95% isn't good enough URL: https://clayharris.com/95-isnt-good-enough/ Last updated: 2026-04-23T10:20:23.000Z _This post is for paying subscribers only._ ### Outside the Guide: Financial Statements - Balance Sheet URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-financial-statements-balance-sheet/ Last updated: 2026-03-11T01:32:45.000Z _No content available._ ### EOS Annual QCE in Orlando, FL URL: https://clayharris.com/eos-annual-qce-in-orlando-fl/ Last updated: 2026-02-20T19:46:23.000Z Just back from the [**EOS Worldwide**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/eos-worldwide-llc/?ref=clayharris.com) annual QCE, reinvigorated to teach EOS, facilitate great sessions, and coach leaders who need a kick in the ass every so often. Grateful to spend time with my friends and fellow EOS implementers [**Josh West**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuadeanwest/?ref=clayharris.com), [**Jeff Starin**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffstarineosimplementer/?ref=clayharris.com), [**Tonya Petrozzi**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonya-petrozzi/?ref=clayharris.com), [**Christian D. Landers**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdlanders/?ref=clayharris.com), [**Eric Dykes**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ejdykes/?ref=clayharris.com), & [**Brent Sprinkle**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bsprinkle/?ref=clayharris.com) and many others. The highlight of QCE (and my entire EOS journey, tbh) was [**Ted Bradshaw**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tedbradshaw/?ref=clayharris.com), Don Tinney, [**Mike Paton**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepaton/?ref=clayharris.com), and [**Gino Wickman**](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginowickman/?ref=clayharris.com) speaking with passion, clarity, and force on the roots and power of EOS. Un-f\*cking-forgettable. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/02/IMG_0171.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/02/IMG_0170.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/02/IMG_0168.jpeg) ### Lessons from the Session: January 2026 URL: https://clayharris.com/lessons-from-the-session-january-2026/ Last updated: 2026-02-20T20:04:25.000Z _No content available._ ### Outside the Guide: Financial Reports - Income Statement URL: https://clayharris.com/outside-the-guide-financial-reports-income-statement/ Last updated: 2026-02-20T20:04:41.000Z _No content available._ ### Undefeated League Champions URL: https://clayharris.com/undefeated-league-champions/ Last updated: 2026-02-13T12:56:28.000Z Way to go Smith Cyclone! Especially #11, Zoe Harris ### EOS Toolbox: Cash Flow Drivers URL: https://clayharris.com/eos-toolbox-cash-flow-drivers/ Last updated: 2026-02-10T16:33:50.000Z _No content available._ ### EOS Toolbox: The 5 Rules URL: https://clayharris.com/eos-toolbox-the-5-rules/ Last updated: 2026-02-10T16:31:56.000Z _No content available._ ### Special Guest: Dane Dougall of Schooley Mitchell URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-dane-dougall/ Last updated: 2026-02-10T16:30:44.000Z _No content available._ ### LMA (3 of 3) URL: https://clayharris.com/lma-3-of-3/ Last updated: 2026-02-10T16:22:54.000Z _No content available._ ### Nora is Eleven URL: https://clayharris.com/eleven/ Last updated: 2026-02-12T12:48:33.000Z Eleven years old. Lordy time flies. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/02/IMG_0031.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/02/IMG_0028-1.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/02/IMG_9968.jpeg) ### LMA (2 of 3) URL: https://clayharris.com/lma-5-leadership-practices/ Last updated: 2026-02-10T16:22:04.000Z _No content available._ ### DC Sunrise URL: https://clayharris.com/dc-sunrise/ Last updated: 2026-01-12T12:54:39.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/01/IMG_9930-1.jpeg) Session day. ### Top Golf in Jacksonville URL: https://clayharris.com/top-golf-in-jacksonville/ Last updated: 2026-01-07T16:21:19.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2026/01/Top-Golf-2.jpeg) Haven't held a golf club in a few years, but this was a fun outing, and I won one of the games somehow. ### LMA (1 of 3) URL: https://clayharris.com/lma-1-of-3/ Last updated: 2026-01-07T16:21:50.000Z _No content available._ ### Merry Christmas, y'all URL: https://clayharris.com/merry-christmas-yall/ Last updated: 2026-02-10T16:34:56.000Z She said yes, by the way. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/12/IMG_9848.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/12/IMG_9842.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/12/IMG_9832.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/12/IMG_9828.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/12/IMG_9818.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/12/IMG_9808.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/12/IMG_9786.jpeg) ### Special Guest: Matt Stevens of TAB URL: https://clayharris.com/guest-matt-stevens-tab/ Last updated: 2026-01-07T16:28:33.000Z _No content available._ ### Special Guest: Antwine Jackson of Enitech URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-antwine-jackson-of-enitech/ Last updated: 2026-01-07T16:29:50.000Z _No content available._ ### Pickleball Break URL: https://clayharris.com/pickleball-break/ Last updated: 2025-12-18T02:28:45.000Z We took a break from our annual planning to play some pickleball. Good to get some movement and sun, and no one was injured. Other than my frequent trips into the “kitchen” (against the rules, it seems), a very nice addition to the agenda. ### Special Guest: Gary Johnson of J2 Marketing URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-gary-johnson-of-j2-marketing/ Last updated: 2026-01-07T16:31:39.000Z _No content available._ ### Proven Process: 90 Day World URL: https://clayharris.com/proven-process-90-day-world/ Last updated: 2025-12-14T18:31:40.000Z _No content available._ ### Proven Process: Implementation Phase URL: https://clayharris.com/proven-process-implementation-phase/ Last updated: 2025-12-14T18:32:20.000Z _No content available._ ### Special Guest: Rebecca Dickenson of the Chatham Chamber of Commerce URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guest-rebecca-dickenson-of-the-chatham-chamber-of-commerce/ Last updated: 2025-12-14T18:32:38.000Z _No content available._ ### First ENRG meeting was a success URL: https://clayharris.com/first-enrg-meeting-was-a-success/ Last updated: 2025-11-01T16:32:09.000Z 10 folks, made introductions and reviewed our purpose. Then dove right into solving members EOS questions and issues. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/11/IMG_9440-1.jpeg) ### Client Testimonial Compilation URL: https://clayharris.com/testimonial/ Last updated: 2025-11-01T13:57:39.000Z Shout out to Matt Dugan at [Pivit Studios](https://pivitstudios.com/?ref=clayharris.com) for putting this together. ### Proven Process: 90 Minute Meeting URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guests-dallin-spencer-tippetts-of-rainforest-2/ Last updated: 2025-11-01T13:52:12.000Z _No content available._ ### Special Guests: Dallin & Spencer Tippetts of Rainforest URL: https://clayharris.com/special-guests-dallin-spencer-tippetts-of-rainforest/ Last updated: 2025-10-11T10:03:23.000Z _No content available._ ### Scorecard URL: https://clayharris.com/s/ Last updated: 2025-09-26T19:39:43.000Z _No content available._ ### Hillsborough, September 2025 URL: https://clayharris.com/hillsborough-september-2025/ Last updated: 2025-09-26T19:40:38.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/20251918-1.jpg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/20250918-2.jpg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/20250918-4.jpg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/20250918-3.jpg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/20250918-5.jpg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/20250918-6.jpg) Thanks for taking the pictures, Amy Stern ### Meeting Pulse URL: https://clayharris.com/meeting-pulse/ Last updated: 2025-09-20T03:20:09.000Z _No content available._ ### Accountability Chart: 4 People Issues URL: https://clayharris.com/accountability-chart-4-people-issues/ Last updated: 2025-09-12T13:12:01.000Z _No content available._ ### Accountability Chart: People Second URL: https://clayharris.com/accountability-chart-people-second/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T17:12:47.000Z _No content available._ ### UNC Football 2025 URL: https://clayharris.com/unc-football-2025/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:46:52.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8963.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8971.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8972.jpeg) ### Accountability Chart: Structure First URL: https://clayharris.com/accountability-chart-structure-first/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T17:13:20.000Z _No content available._ ### Zoe is Thirteen URL: https://clayharris.com/zoe-is-thirteen/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:45:15.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/FullSizeRender-2.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8929.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/FullSizeRender--1--1.jpeg) ### Indianapolis 2025 URL: https://clayharris.com/indianapolis-2025/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:45:45.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8582.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8586.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8598.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8645.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8647.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8662.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8679.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8681.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8686.jpeg) ### Bald Head 2025 URL: https://clayharris.com/bald-head-2025/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:46:27.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/FullSizeRender-1.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8270.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8290.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8305.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8327.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8343.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8349.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8423.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_8464.jpeg) ### Spring 2025 URL: https://clayharris.com/spring-2024/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:48:24.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/4F8DC750-2D15-4A22-9F15-79338BC12CEE.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7626.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7681.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7683.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7832.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7840.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7903.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7917.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7881.jpeg) ### Nora is Ten URL: https://clayharris.com/nora-is-ten/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:47:06.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7444.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7449.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7457.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7469.jpeg) ### Yosemite 2024 URL: https://clayharris.com/yosemite-2024/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:47:24.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_6962.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_6936.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_6966.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7003.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7059.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7080.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7175.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7202.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_7229.jpeg) ### Fall 2024 URL: https://clayharris.com/fall-2024/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:48:06.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/1F8AFACE-62EF-4224-8373-D831A02552A6.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/ASP_7898.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_6082.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_6138.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_6150-1.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_6335.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_6359.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_6747.jpeg) ### Zoe is Twelve URL: https://clayharris.com/zoe-is-twelve/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:52:03.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_1777.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_5766.jpeg) ### Summer 2024 URL: https://clayharris.com/summer-2024/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T12:47:48.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_5843.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_5803.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_5598-1.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_5704.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_5705.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_5711.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_5748.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2025/09/IMG_5778.jpeg) ### Scotland 2024 URL: https://clayharris.com/scotland-2024/ Last updated: 2024-06-26T18:54:43.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/06/IMG_5197.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/06/IMG_5185.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/06/IMG_5176.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/06/IMG_5172.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/06/IMG_5163.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/06/IMG_5153.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/06/IMG_5144-1.jpeg) ### Zoo URL: https://clayharris.com/zoo2024/ Last updated: 2024-07-24T12:07:48.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/07/IMG_5423.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/07/IMG_0414.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/07/IMG_5417-1.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/07/IMG_5419.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/07/IMG_5420.jpeg) ### New England 2024 URL: https://clayharris.com/new-england-2024/ Last updated: 2024-04-15T17:57:36.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/04/IMG_4734.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/04/IMG_4738.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/04/IMG_4753.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/04/IMG_4773.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/04/IMG_4775.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/04/IMG_4784.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/04/IMG_4906.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/04/IMG_4904.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/04/IMG_4885.jpeg) ### Nora is Nine URL: https://clayharris.com/nora-is-nine/ Last updated: 2024-06-26T18:58:41.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/06/IMG_4205.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2024/06/IMG_4201.jpeg) ### Topsail 2021 URL: https://clayharris.com/topsail-2021/ Last updated: 2021-04-06T23:49:48.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/04/3FECC5B6-AB39-4371-AEBF-C159CBFFEBE6.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/04/2909AF51-4865-4EB0-BFF4-64CC14D004E8.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/04/56CB4107-061D-4A70-A472-E5EDE337B606.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/04/E411608E-99A0-4EB6-9865-AE77121C7F24.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/04/22095170-0A4F-40D8-9A22-8D1689D6FB9F.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/04/73A88C23-6792-447B-B03A-452A27D643A3.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/04/DBA96E89-DBD8-44C8-BB55-7EE64F64E479.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/04/3097CF2B-26C1-4F0F-AA54-56E333ADB9B0.jpeg) ### The Best Weekends URL: https://clayharris.com/the-best-weekends/ Last updated: 2021-02-08T00:26:46.000Z The best weekends are the ones with these folks. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/02/IMG_1511-1.jpeg) Zoe ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/02/IMG_1521.jpeg) Zoe, Gigi, Mr. Pink Sloth ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/02/IMG_1508.jpeg) Nora & dinner ### SIX URL: https://clayharris.com/six/ Last updated: 2021-01-28T02:02:08.000Z Happy Birthday, Nora. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/01/7F9BC91D-9365-4A6C-9ACA-BDD32C090D4F.jpeg) ### Christmas 2020 URL: https://clayharris.com/christmas-2020/ Last updated: 2021-01-28T02:00:22.000Z Another holiday with new traditions. Just right. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/01/5208A470-D97E-4D15-833E-EFEE6DAA45A0.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/01/DBBB5D22-0164-441C-B077-AE5D01E378C2.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/01/533199DB-012B-45C4-A7A3-D76E3F5EDC8F.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/01/E64A304F-8902-4357-8411-1C05180EF668.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/01/325F4FFA-80E4-45F0-B85C-E441331F9FFC.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/01/98875116-6F22-468D-8EE7-86545E195571.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2021/01/B7D315D9-10DD-49DA-B4C3-D94D17F04E48.jpeg) ### Thanksgiving Walk URL: https://clayharris.com/thanksgiving-2020/ Last updated: 2025-09-09T11:51:48.000Z This Thanksgiving was different. New patterns and traditions to be cast. Cookies. Cousins. Christmas lights. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2020/12/IMG_0783-1.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2020/12/IMG_0805-1.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2020/12/IMG_0806.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2020/12/IMG_0812.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2020/12/IMG_0832.jpeg) ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2020/12/IMG_0826.jpeg) ### THREE URL: https://clayharris.com/three/ Last updated: 2018-08-25T20:53:12.000Z Nora turned three today. Happy, healthy, full of giggles and smiles ... and cake!![tempImageForSave](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2018/08/tempImageForSave.jpg) ### Nora is one. URL: https://clayharris.com/one-year-old/ Last updated: 2024-04-15T18:02:03.000Z ![](http://teamnora.rocks/posts/one-year.jpg) A few weeks ago, Nora celebrated her first birthday. And it's been quite a year. Since her last seizure in late April (a little more than nine months ago now), Nora has been hard at work to start crawling, babbling, and cruising around the house. Sometimes it feels like she's days away from walking... And other times it seems weeks or months away. She sees either an occupational or physical therapist every week, and though she's made significant progress - really, truly great progress - we remain committed to making sure she gets every possible 'leg up' during her development. It's hard not to be always worried, just a little bit, about whether or not that foot is doing what it's supposed to do, or if she's sitting in a way that says something is wrong, or if one hand doesn't get enough action. We didn't pay that much attention to this stuff with Zoe. With Nora, it's the main event. Of course, we can't wait for her to talk. She definitely says "dada" (thanks, [Jimmy Fallon](http://www.amazon.com/Your-Babys-First-Word-Will/dp/125007181X?ref=clayharris.com)) and "mama" very clearly, but "dog" and "zo-zo" sound very similar, much to her sister's delight / dismay depending on ... who knows, she's three. After some trouble with reflux, Nora eats like a champ. It's likely that my own fear of her choking held her back, but now that I have stopped cutting bananas into the smallest possible size for her hands, Nora will gladly grab and devour a whole banana. Nora remains on Topamax, an anti-epileptic, and a dwindling dose of Prevacid for her reflux. Topamax will be with us for quite some time, and now that she's good at eating, it's much easier for her to get down. Zoe *loves* to give Nora bites of food and to help with her sippy cup. Nights and mornings are full of Nora and Zoe giggling and tickling. They also love to share toys with each other. (Just kidding on that part, just wanted to make sure you're paying attention. They are *horrible* at sharing.) But boy does she smile. Smiles. All. The. Time. Happy Birthday, Nora. We all love you so very much. ### Watch out, world* URL: https://clayharris.com/crawling/ Last updated: 2015-11-04T14:18:01.000Z ![Crawling Nora](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2015/11/crawling.png) After months of physical and occupational therapy, Nora crawled for the first time yesterday, and we captured it on video. She had to get that left leg back under her to get crawling, and she finally figured it out. I can neither confirm nor deny the presence of tears in mom and dad's eyes. \* *Or more specifically, Zoe should watch out for her toys.* ### Landing Deer URL: https://clayharris.com/landing-deer/ Last updated: 2025-09-10T14:42:29.000Z Today is my birthday. 37 years on this planet, the last 6 as a husband and 3 as a dad. I'm hoping for at least 37 more. Last night, Zoe was wearing her space suit pajamas ("the same pj's astronauts wear, right daddy?" "of course"), which are covered with decals that glow in the dark. One button is for launching the space ship, she thinks, and another is to put down the 'landing deer', and another is a walkie talkie. "Ladies and gentelmen, we're ready to take off" she said in between bedtime-delaying sips of water. We practiced walkie talkie conversation with the lights out. "I love you, Zoe... over" "I love you too daddy" "Over" "Right, over" ### Nora is 8 months old! URL: https://clayharris.com/nora-is-8-months-old/ Last updated: 2021-01-29T17:54:22.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2015/09/DSC02590.jpg) Nora is 8 months old! She's been seizure-free for nearly five months. Nora has been working hard with her occupational therapist, and while she's a bit behind physically, she's making great progress. She's sitting unassisted, reaching for toys, and rolling. She's still working on getting up on her hands and knees, rocks back and forth, and really really wants to crawl. Nora will start working with a physical therapist also to make sure that she continues to make progress. Nora's been a bit reluctant to eat. The folks at the UNC feeding clinic don't think there's anything wrong with her swallow, but rather her reflux might be the cause of her reluctance. Even before we increased her Prevacid she decided to eat a bit. Puffs, crackers, yogurt, peas... She's actually lost weight since the steroids, so we're keeping a close eye on her eating! Nora had an Opthamology appointment in August that was originally scheduled during our April hospital stay. We'd been doing visual exercises with Nora (tracking toys, following objects in different patterns) with Nora and noticed that she has problems tracking up and to her right. The opthamologist noticed this too, and it's possible that she'll simply have a deficit in her right visual field. We'll continue to monitor. Other things to note: - She smiles all the time. - Her giggling continues to improve, with lots of practice. - She likes practicing giggling between 1AM - 3AM. - She poops out of her diapers consistently. - She has two teeth. They're sharp. Another neurology appointment in October just to check in... We're curious to know if they're going to do another MRI sometime in 2016. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2015/09/IMG_1574.jpg) ### Nora URL: https://clayharris.com/nora/ Last updated: 2015-09-14T14:11:55.000Z ![I'm a Tar Heel](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2015/09/IMG_1674.jpg) ### Paul Ford, @ftrain URL: https://clayharris.com/paul-ford-tweet/ Last updated: 2024-06-26T19:26:26.000Z No words are more painfully optimistic than “just send me what you have.” ### Headed Back to the Hospital URL: https://clayharris.com/fathers-day/ Last updated: 2015-09-14T14:21:37.000Z ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2015/09/headed-back-1.jpg) Nora is headed back to the hospital tomorrow for an overnight Video EEG. Over the past week, she’s had trouble sleeping and been making some fairly odd noises. Worried that she’s having some sort of seizure, we emailed her neurologist who recommended we come in for a definitive test. Because of Nora’s cortical dysplasia, seizures can show up in different ways at any time. Until she’s capable of communicating with us about what she’s feeling, we’ll have to do tests to get answers. We’re reeling a bit from this one. Even with twice-per-day anti-epileptic medication, it’s easy to forget about the negative possibilities. Going back to the hospital is just a reminder that we’re still figuring out our normal. When we got the results of Nora’s MRI during the intitial hospital visit, one of the neurologists simply said, “We’re going to be in your life.” Indeed. ### Father's Day URL: https://clayharris.com/fathers-day-2/ Last updated: 2015-09-14T14:15:57.000Z ![Father's Day](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/97/c7971b67-bc24-4530-a608-d51274b766fe/content/images/2015/09/fathers-day.jpg) Nora has been seizure-free for two months and one day. She’s taking her Topamax twice a day, Prevacid once per day, and generally does fairly well with those. Since our last update, she’s weaned off of the Leucovorin and B6 prescriptions, which were to help with neuro-transmission. The Topamax makes Nora pretty sleepy; she takes 3, sometimes 4, naps a day. She’s also overheats pretty easily thanks to the medicine, so we’ve been staying inside. In spite of all that, Nora is very happy and gives great smiles. She makes lots of cute baby noises and is ticklish (with the occassional giggle). Today, she went for her first swim and did a good job kicking (better than her sister, in fact). She’s had a few visits with physical and occupational therapists. Nora is slightly behind physically; her muscles are less developed that they’d like, so we’re working on tummy time and assisted sitting. Occupational therapy will continue to come every other week, and physical therapy monthly. We have neurology and opthamology therapy visits coming up in July; neurology is most likely just a check-in, and perhaps increase medication based on her weight (but she’s lost a couple pounds post-steroids, so probably not). Opthamology will do another physical examination (last one was in the hospital) to make sure her eyes are developing as expected. Jackie returns to work tomorrow; we’re thankful that she had the flexibility to spend time with Nora over the past two months while we recovered from the infantile spasms sucker punch. I’m nervous, she’s nervous; we’ll figure it out. ### Summer Garden URL: https://clayharris.com/summer-garden/ Last updated: 2015-08-25T15:19:14.000Z ![There's a bee!](http://res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/v1440465647/IMG_1403_jkiaif.jpg) [![Summer Garden 2015](https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5784/20686965160_b04519f8c5_c.jpg)](https://www.flickr.com/photos/clayandjackie/albums/72157657676659986?ref=clayharris.com "Summer Garden 2015") ### Wednesday, June 3 URL: https://clayharris.com/wednesday-june-3/ Last updated: 2015-09-02T00:15:08.000Z ![Smiles!](http://res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/v1440465739/wednesday-june-3_gbh55z.jpg) Nora is still seizure-free. She’s completely off of the steroids and on her full dose of Topamax. She’s been sleeping through the night and back to a fairly regular napping schedule. Baths are fun again. After bulking up on steroids, Nora actually lost a pound over the last couple weeks. She’s back under 20lbs (but still wearing 12-month clothes). Aside from the weight gain, the steroids also made her fairly swollen, and now her skin, and especially her cheeks, don’t feel as tight. Her weight gain may delay some physical milestones, but she’s really trying to roll over. Those legs and arms are so heavy! We had a visit today with a pediatrician at the complex care clinic at UNC, who talked to us about ongoing care, vaccinations, food, etc. Now that we’re two weeks removed from the steroids, she gave the green light to get back on track with vaccinations, and Nora will be right back on schedule for the next round due when she’s six months old. Nora also had her first visit from an occupational therapist, who thinks that Nora’s is right on track for a four-month old. We’ll continue with those OT visits biweekly to make sure she stays on track. The Topamax is a struggle; it comes as sprinkles that we’ve been giving with milk, then cereal, then apple sauce. None of it is easy, and she gags on the food because, you know, no teeth \[1\]. Yesterday, we got the Topamax as a suspension, and that’s been a bit easier to give her through a bottle. One side effect of the Topamax is heat sensitivity; we’ve noticed that Nora heats up very easily, even when we’re comfortable. Another is sedation, and it does seem that Nora is a bit more tired than normal, but alert when she’s awake, doing lots of coo-ing, reaching for toys, rolling over attempts, etc.. Thanks again for all the kind thoughts and words of encouragement. \[1\]: according to Zoe ### Thursday, May 21 URL: https://clayharris.com/thursday-may-21/ Last updated: 2015-09-02T00:14:11.000Z ![cheeks!](http://res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/v1440465737/thursday-week-5_gtryu1.jpg) Good news today: Nora had a 4-hour video EEG and Dr. Shiloh didn’t see any seizure activity. In fact, Dr. Shiloh said, “I think she’s going to be smart, and I don’t think she’s going to have vision problems.” We’re taking that with a grain of salt, trying to stay optimistic but not over-confident. By the time the EEG was over, we were more than 50 hours removed from her last dose of steroids and has been on her full dose of Topamax for one full week. We have to continue to watch her closely as we continue to wean her off of other medications. So, now we’re into monitor mode: - She can get all her vaccinations. We’re meeting primary care folks in the Complex Care Clinic at UNC next week, and we’ll figure out that revised schedule with them. - We’re getting rid of vitamin B6 and folinic acid over the next four weeks; eliminating one then the other, just so we can keep an eye out for changes. - One of the side effects of Topamax is over-heating, and in some kids, no sweating. So, we need to keep Nora cool, and try to make sure she’s sweating. - She will have a visit with Opthamology in a couple of months to take a look at her eyes to make sure they’re developing normally. Another side effect of Topamax is glaucoma, so they will monitor the pressure in her eyes. - We’ll start some visits with an occupational therapist in the next week or two to make sure that her physical development stays on track. - She will follow-up with Dr. Shiloh in a couple of months, primarily to review her Topamax dose as her weight increases. Nora is four months old and weighs 20.5 pounds. She’s wearing Zoe’s 12-month clothes. Her weight should stabilize now that she’s off the steroids, and her appetite has already decreased. Her mood continues to improve, but her cry is quick and loud. Tonight, Zoe put her hands over her ears and said “Nora! Nora! Nora! It’s ok! We love you!” ![sisters](http://i2.wp.com/www.teamnora.rocks/posts/thursday-week-5-2.jpg?w=770) We’re hoping to get her genome mapped through a study that’s going on currently at UNC, and we have a visit with genetics tomorrow. Dr. Shiloh thinks it’s unlikely that they’ll be able to link the anatomical problems in her brain with a genetic abnormality, or at least one that’s known currently. Still, they will have more data, and that can’t be bad. Nora will likely remain on Topamax for four years, assuming she remains seizure-free. Dr. Shiloh did say that Nora will likely deal with epilepsy, but will hopefully be managed with medicine. Fingers remain crossed. ### Friday, May 15 URL: https://clayharris.com/friday-may-15/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:06:17.000Z Today is the eleventh day of Nora’s wean off of steroids. After we left the hospital, she was on 40mg/day for a week, then another week at 60mg, after which we had the good EEG that showed the hypsarrhythmia had resolved. We began to wean after that appointment; 5 days back at 40mg, 5 days at 20mg, and today is her first day at 10mg, which she’ll finish next Tuesday. During that period, we also ramped her up onto Topamax. Starting today, she’s at her full dose of Topamax and will remain on that dose indefinitely. Two appointments for Nora next week: a follow-up EEG on Thursday with a visit to her neurologist, and our first visit with the genetics team on Friday. We’re hoping that the EEG will still show positive results after a couple of days with no steroids – she hasn’t had anything that looks like the infantile spasms that took us to the hospital in the first place, but the EEG will be definitive. Nora is still on some other vitamins that should be helping with neural transmission, and we’re keeping her on those for the time being to keep the equation to a single variable – we’ll probably plan for those to come off after spending more time without the steroids. Nora’s appetite has appropriately decreased as we’ve weaned her off of the steroids, but sleeping is tough. She’s consistently up 4-5 times a night; Jackie is the only one of us who is good at soothing her. Because of her appetite, we’ve had to supplement her feeding with formula, which gives her quite a bit of trouble with constipation, so she’s pretty upset in the afternoons with it’s time to go. Her cry goes from 0-60 faster than a Tesla, and Zoe quickly covers her ears before saying, “it’s ok Nora!” But, her mood is definitely getting better. She’s starting to enjoy baths again. She’s making lots of noises and gnawing on her hands and the occasional toy regularly. She’s also pretty strong, and she’s getting good at assisted sit-ups (better than me, probably). We have a referral with an occupational therapist and hopefully an appointment soon to get a better assessment of those things and plan of action to keep it going. Most likely, we’ll transfer Nora’s primary care over to the specialy pediatric clinic at UNC Hospitals; with all of the medicine and other things going on, we’ll need folks very familiar with her and her care to help guide us through things like vaccinations. That appointment is in a couple of weeks. Long email with not too much new information – and we’re just fine with that! Will email again after next Tuesday’s EEG. ### Friday, May 8 URL: https://clayharris.com/friday-may-8/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:08:41.000Z It’s been three weeks since we went to the hospital with Nora. The next Monday, Jackie’s birthday, the neurologist came into Nora’s room and told us that the infantile spasms were symptomatic. Then he asked us to have a seat. Most of the time at the hospital, the lights in Nora’s room were off. They were off when he talked to us about Tuberous Sclerosis. They were off when he and the other neurologists offered to show us the MRI, and then they did a wood lamp examination (it’s a black light) to look for the “ash-leaf” lesions that typically go along with TS. They saw one on Nora’s belly. In my memory of that morning (afternoon? jeez.), they all looked at each other with frowns in the dark and nodded. I’m sure that’s an exaggeration, but I thought they were certain. We were certain. We looked at the MRI. Later that night, I emailed the [Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance](http://www.tsalliance.org/?ref=clayharris.com). They emailed me back two hours later and told me to watch out for infantile spasms. *No shit. But also, thanks for emailing back so quickly.* Then I followed them on twitter. TS is the leading cause of autism and epilepsy, did you know that? We waited, scared, for the results of the genetic testing to confirm or deny TS. Then we talked a cousin of my best friend who happends to be a neuroradiologist. He took a look at the MRI and didn’t think it looked like TS. I talked to a client, who is the former CMO of one of the biggest labratory companies in the country, who reassured me that the genetic testing procedures were sound. She questioned some of the assumptions of the neurologist who talked to us about TS. We got an opinion from Duke pediatric neurology. She didn’t think it was TS. We finally got to see our epileptologist at UNC, and she didn’t think it was TS either. We couldn’t find the ash-leaf lesion. We waited, a little less scared, for the results of the gentic testing. And then they came to me with the news we were hoping for – the genetic testing doesn’t show the mutations that are typically seen with TS. They’re there in 80%-85% of patients with other TS characteristics. ![AWESOME](http://i2.wp.com/www.teamnora.rocks/posts/friday-week-4-2.png?w=770) So, that’s awesome. A-W-E-S-O-M-E. Nora is continuing to wean off of the steroids and is ramping up on her Topamax. She is super-duper smiley and doing a lot of cooing. She’s quite the trooper. She’s still eating and eating and eating, but we expect that to subside (please) when the steroids go away (11 more days), and then we have another EEG on the 21st. ### Monday, May 4 URL: https://clayharris.com/monday-may-4/ Last updated: 2015-08-24T20:22:26.000Z The quick version: - The steroids worked. The events that we’ve seen over the past two weeks are not seizures. The best news we could have gotten today. - No ACTH. No hospital stay to start ACTH. Weaning off steroids. Starting Topamax. - We got our third “I don’t think it’s tuberous sclerosis” opinion, this one from Dr. Shiloh. Still waiting on the genetic testing that will be definitive, but still good to hear. ![monday-week-3-3](http://i0.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/h_300,w_225/v1440465744/monday-week-3-3_tz2juy.jpg?resize=225%2C300) The more detailed version: At 8 this morning, our EEG tech Helen started to put on Nora’s third “wire ponytail”, but this time was much easier – no paste, just tape. The EEG was ready to start recording right around 9:15 and Nora had an episode at the same time. This episode was a bit more intense; she was tired and pissed, paste or not. We got the episode on the EEG recording, thankfully. An hour or so later, Dr. Shiloh came in to say hello, and wanted to capture a few more ’episodes’ on EEG. We decided to extend the scheduled one-hour EEG as long as necessary to capture more episodes. Her preliminary opinion was that the episode at 9:15 was not a seizure. Jackie and I fist-bumped. Dr. Shiloh also reiterated what we’d heard at Duke regarding tuberous sclerosis: she didn’t think that Nora’s MRI showed the typical TS presentation. I cried. We kept Nora on the EEG until 2:00 or so and captured two more events. We shuffled down to the clinic to see Dr. Shiloh who confirmed that the other episodes that we captured on the EEG were not seizures. We’re now going to wean off of the steroid and ramp up on Topamax, an anti-epileptic drug. Though tuberous sclerosis doesn’t seem likely, it’s still a possibility. The test results should be back in the next week or two, and Dr. Shiloh promised to call as soon as they’re in. The full test results will come back in twelve weeks; those results might help us better determine a long-term treatment plan and / or prognosis. Our more immediate concern is that seizures don’t return when the steroids go away, so we have a follow-up visit for another EEG on the May 21 which will be two days after the steroids are completely gone and Nora is on her full-time Topamax dose. There’s still a cortical dysplasia – an area of Nora’s brain that simply didn’t develop correctly – in the part of her brain is very important for visual processing. Dr. Shiloh told us today that because Nora’s brain is still so young and has high plasticity, it’s possible that her brain will move that visual processing job to another part of her brain. Nora could still have some developmental delays; it’s just hard to know when she’s so young. The likelihood that Nora will deal with seizures / epilepsy for the rest of her life is high. She’s got a good team, though. ![monday-week-3-2](http://i2.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/h_186,w_300/v1440465745/monday-week-3-2_zbup8d.jpg?resize=300%2C186) ### Sunday, May 3 URL: https://clayharris.com/sunday-may-3/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:07:17.000Z Nora had a few episodes over the weekend. They’re very slight and easy to miss. We’re paranoid and suspicious of every movement. She’s a baby. Is that a seizure? Or is she trying to fart? We’ll know soon. Big day tomorrow; Nora has another EEG tomorrow morning and then an appointment with Dr. Shiloh with UNC Neurology at 11:30\. We’re also expecting a call from Duke Neurology. Two possibilities tomorrow based on the EEG: 1. The EEG shows that the hypsarrhythmia has cleared (I don’t know that cleared is the right word; but you know what I’m trying to say. You don’t? Oh, me neither.) Then… I don’t know what the next step is. 2. The hypsarrhythmia has not cleared and we start talking about the next drugs. ACTH along with an anti-epileptic are the likely next steps. Then… we need to decide whether we go to Duke or UNC. I think we’re likely to stick at UNC, but we’re keeping both options open for now. --- Today, Zoe and I went to see my mom, Gigi, and Nora and Jackie hung out with Jackie’s parents, Grandma and Bapa, in Graham. Gigi has spent nearly every Friday of Zoe’s life with her until 6 weeks ago when she was in a very bad car wreck. She’s on the road to recovery, and Zoe and Nora are surely loooking forward to having her back on a regular basis. Grandma and Bapa retired late last year and made the traditional North Dakota to North Carolina move. We’re so thankful they were here to keep things going as normally as possible while Nora was in the hospital. Since we came home, they’ve been at the house nearly every day to help with taking care of Zoe or Nora or both. Jackie and I can manage to get the girls fed and to bed, but Nora’s short fuse and amazingly robust appetite make it quite a handful. Not sure how we’d do it without their help, or how to adequately express our gratitude. ### Tuesday, April 30 URL: https://clayharris.com/tuesday-april-30/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:11:00.000Z Nora had a good day today. She may have had two episodes but they were so slight, we’re not 100% sure they were episodes. They probably were. We had a good visit with Duke Neurology today; though they would have tried a different course to stop the seizures, they confirmed that UNC’s treatment plan is valid and that there’s an argument in the neurology world right now about the right first step. The neurologist took a look at Nora’s MRI, and said that her first thought was *not* Tuberous Sclerosis; though we’re still waiting for the genetic tests that will be more definitive, she would expect to see other signs of TS that just aren’t present Nora’s MRI. That doesn’t mean they won’t develop, and it does mean that we still have a very wide range of possibilities. We still have the appointment with UNC on Monday. If the seizures are still occurring, and based on the results of Monday’s EEG, we’ll need to make a decision on the next medicine to try. The likely candidate is ACTH and / or an anti-epeleptic drug. Starting ACTH would require a 3-4 day stay in the hospital; lots of potential side-effects that they’d want to monitor for during her first few days on the drug. So that sounds fun. Join me in rooting for the steroids to do their thing. Let’s Go Steroids Clap Clap Clap-Clap-Clap. ### Wednesday, April 29 URL: https://clayharris.com/wednesday-april-29/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:13:16.000Z Day 2 of the increased dosage on steroids; Nora had two episodes yesterday and two more today. She’s still really hungry almost all the time (we’re conservatively estimate she’s eating >50% more than before the steroids). She’s normally the most smiley in the morning, and she really enjoys being on the move: walks, car rides, anything that includes changing scenery! Tomorrow, we have our “second opinion” appointment with Duke Neurology at 3pm. Monday, we have a follow-up with UNC Neurology; 8am EEG (sucks) and 11:30 with Dr. Shiloh. If the increased steroids don’t resolve the seizures, we’ll discuss other anti-epileptic drugs with UNC on Monday; one possibilty is ACTH, which comes with it’s own set of side effects. We’re still probably two to three weeks away from results of the genetic tests. Sorry for no update yesterday; sometimes it’s hard to figure out what to write, but I should always write: we’re so very thankful for all of your notes, emails, texts, cards, flowers, and food. Thank you. ### Monday, April 27 URL: https://clayharris.com/monday-april-27/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:14:57.000Z Nora had an episode yesterday afternoon and mid-morning today. As planned, her neuro team at UNC will be increasing her steroid dose 50% starting tomorrow. That will last for another week, and then we’ll start weaning her off of the steroids. If that doesn’t resolve her seizures, we’re start looking for another anti-epileptic medication while we wait for the results of the genetic testing. The side-effects of the steroids continue. Zoe has also been more irritable, both dogs have pooped in the house, and this guy, Dad-o, has a bit of trouble with it all. However, mom/Jackie is the superhero of the place. She’s our glue. SuperGlue. Second opinion visit with Duke neurology on Thursday. ### Saturday, April 25 URL: https://clayharris.com/saturday-april-25/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:16:33.000Z We didn’t see that Nora had *any* episodes today – we could have missed something, of course. Nora was a good bit more relaxed today, too, especially in the afternoon. We’ll take another, please. ### One Week URL: https://clayharris.com/one-week/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:17:44.000Z One week ago we went into the ER with Nora. Since then, it feels like we’ve been punched in the face over and over again with tests, possibilities, medicine, and more tests. Tears and crankiness abound, and that’s just fine. Today Nora had another good day; one subtle episode around 10:30 that didn’t seem to bother her at all. We have an appointment with pediatric neurology at Duke next Thursday and feel good that we successfully navigated the bureaucracy at both Duke and UNC to avoid what could have been Nora’s third EEG at Duke. Electronic medical records to the rescue? No. Instead, I will drive to UNC, pick up a DVD, make a copy, and then drive it to Duke. I would drive to North Dakota to pick it up to avoid another EEG while Nora is on steroids. And, yes, those are Christmas pajamas. The burden of a being the little sister born on the opposite side of the calendar from her big sister. All of Zoe’s first bathing suits should fit Nora by December. ### Thursday, April 23 URL: https://clayharris.com/thursday-april-23/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:19:01.000Z Another good day for Nora. We only noticed one episode, and it was very subtle. It’s possible that we missed other episodes. Hard to tell. Nora is doing a great job with her medicine, but her irritability and hunger made sleeping a challenge last night and today. Jackie took Nora on a nice long walk today and she quite enjoyed it. Jackie will be taking a leave of absence from work for two months, so there are many more walks in Nora’s future! ### Today was a good day! URL: https://clayharris.com/today-was-a-good-day/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:20:25.000Z Today was a great day for Nora! She has now had five doses of her steroids since Monday night. Today, she had two episodes (12pm and 6:30pm). They were much milder than they have been previously, and only involved her eyes; no arm movement associated. She seemed to ‘recover’ more quickly and was less agitated afterwards. Her neurologists say that a successful result of the steroids is for the seizures to stop, not just a change in their severity or frequency. Even so, we’re happy to see less of them. One noticeable change in Nora is her mood – she’s far more irritable and has a very short fuse. That’s a result of the steroids and is to be expected, along with her voracious appetite. Before the steroids, Nora was the very quiet and calm and the change to loud and a bit pissed has frazzled Zoe a little bit. We’re trying to explain to Zoe that the medicine makes Nora feel better, but also makes her cry more. That’s hard to for me to swallow, and I’m not two years old. Nora went to see her primary care Nurse Practitioner today, whom we think is absolutely awesome\*, and we’ll get a referral to a neurologist at Duke for a second opinion. Just seems like this is the type of thing that warrants a second look. I bet you’re wondering about that picture. Specifically, why haven’t we cleaned her head? That glue is really sticky, guys. We’re rubbing oil on it to help get it off because the next step is nail polish remover. We’re not ready to go the acetone route just yet. Also, this picture is right after her first episode today. Her eyes take a bit to get their act together after an episode, and the ophthalmology doctors said it’s too soon to know whether or not that’s just because she’s a baby and babies go cross-eyed sometimes, or if it’s related to the location of the cortical dysplasia. Good news for tomorrow: we are replacing her Prilosec suspension with a Prilosec Solutab that will immediately dissolve on Nora’s tongue, so we won’t have to force that pink liquid on her. Small victories. \*\* Elaine Matheson, Durham Pediatrics\* ### Home Again URL: https://clayharris.com/home-again/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:22:17.000Z That’s Nora during the ride home. Let’s talk about this picture: - She’s wearing Zoe’s sunglasses because her eyes were dilated and tested earlier in the day. Zoe was certainly a little incredulous when her sister came in wearing her sunglasses. - Those dots on her forehead are where the electrodes were placed to monitor the electrical activity in her brain. Those damn things were glued to her head; they dried the glue with compressed air. Nora hated having them put on, and she had it done twice during our stay (they had to come off for her MRI). Also, before they put the electrodes on, they measure and mark her head with a grease pencil. First person used a green pencil, which is a good color to use… because the second person used red. I walked in on the middle of that one and thought that she was implanting them. - Blowing a bubble – why the hell not? - Outfit from the TEA collection (which I think stands for totally expensive apparel) We left the hospital around 5:45\. Home just in time for bath and for both girls to completely lose it (Nora just wanted to go to bed, Zoe just wanted bubbles). Both girls are sleeping soundly and we’re just so happy to figure out normal again. Nora is on a heavy dose of steroids to attempt to stop the seizures; the neurology team at UNC said that for symptomatic infantile seizures, steroids are effective 40% of the time. If the seizures don’t stop in the next week, they’ll increase the dose for an additional week to give it another push, and then begin weening her off of the steroids. By that time, we should have the results of the genetic testing back and will be able to get a more focused drug for Nora’s specific diagnosis (again, to be determined). She’s taking other drugs to specifically address issues the steroids introduce: prilosec, calcium, and vitamin d. She’s also taking b-6 and folinic acid to aid with neurotransmission. As the pharmacist said, “that’s a lot of drugs.” Yep. Earlier today, we were worried because it had been a few days since Nora’s last BM. But then she pooped all over me. As Zoe would later say, “silly Nora.” ### The Beginning URL: https://clayharris.com/the-beginning/ Last updated: 2015-06-21T15:23:45.000Z Our first recap of this whole thing, working on talking about this without getting emotional, but I’m not there yet, so email is better. Last week, Nora started having weird jerky arm movements and had odd eye movements at the same time. We thought she was just getting startled. Then throughout the week we noticed that she was having clusters of these movements – 10–15 of the movements in a 5-10 minute period. We called the pediatrician on Friday, she said go to the ER, so we did. Nora was admitted on Friday and brought up to the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit. By now, we were looking for the movements, and she was having 5-6 of these 10-15 minute episodes per day. Saturday morning, they put Nora on 24-hour EEG monitoring with video (a lot of wires on her head) and a video camera. At this point, the testing was to confirm or deny infantile spasms. Sunday evening the neurology team came in to tell us that they were indeed infantile spasms, and then gave us two possible causes: 1. Syptomatic, which means the spasms are a result of a structural problem in her brain 2. Cryptogenic, which is a fancy way to say they don’t really know the cause, but could be vitamin deficiency, metabolic issue, or just unknown. To determine the cause, they did an MRI (look at the brain) and a Spinal Tap (look for vitamin / metabolic issues). Those tests happened on Monday morning – under anesthesia. The MRI showed a cortical dysplasia in the left occipital lobe, which is causing the spasms. Essentially means that her brain didn’t develop correctly in this area. 1. First goal now is to control the seizures so that they don’t further damage her brain. She’s going home on significant steroids and other drugs related the effects of steroids 2. Second goal is to figure out what the root condition is that is causing these problems. Genetic testing will be key to determine what’s next, and what Nora’s outcome will be. One possibility is Tuberous Sclerosis, but we’re not sure yet; testing takes 4 weeks. ### New House, New Garden URL: https://clayharris.com/new-house-new-garden/ Last updated: 2015-06-22T07:47:12.000Z We left our old house a bit more than a year ago; and we miss our garden more than anything else. But we’re starting over! Smaller garden — just one bed — but a few blueberry and raspberry bushes, herb bed and some perennials. We’re looking forward to growing some food again — on tap for the summer: cucs and tomatoes! ### Fall Update URL: https://clayharris.com/fall-update/ Last updated: 2015-06-22T07:58:09.000Z !\[Sweet Potatoes\](http://i2.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/c\_crop,h\_3264,w\_3264,x\_824,y\_0/h\_150,w\_150/v1440465667/09-sweetpotatoes\_o4luuy.jpg?resize=150%2C150) !\[Butterfly\](http://i2.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/c\_crop,h\_3264,w\_3264,x\_824,y\_0/h\_150,w\_150/v1440465687/02-butterfly\_vdnqfs.jpg?resize=150%2C150) !\[Water Garden\](http://i0.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/c\_crop,h\_3264,w\_3264,x\_824,y\_0/h\_150,w\_150/v1440465680/04-water-garden\_q9fpra.jpg?resize=150%2C150) !\[Baby Carrots\](http://i1.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/c\_crop,h\_3264,w\_3264,x\_824,y\_0/h\_150,w\_150/v1440465678/05-baby-carrots\_omm8gf.jpg?resize=150%2C150) !\[Jalapeños\](http://i2.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/c\_crop,h\_3264,w\_3264,x\_824,y\_0/h\_150,w\_150/v1440465673/07-jalapenos\_pairwe.jpg?resize=150%2C150) !\[Peppers\](http://i2.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/c\_crop,h\_3264,w\_3264,x\_824,y\_0/h\_150,w\_150/v1440465675/06-peppers\_yoospt.jpg?resize=150%2C150) !\[Baby Dill\](http://i1.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/c\_crop,h\_3264,w\_3264,x\_824,y\_0/h\_150,w\_150/v1440465683/03-baby-dill\_dshqgy.jpg?resize=150%2C150) !\[New Bed\](http://i0.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/c\_crop,h\_3264,w\_3264,x\_824,y\_0/h\_150,w\_150/v1440465670/08-newbed\_ojijom.jpg?resize=150%2C150) !\[Strawberries\](http://i2.wp.com/res.cloudinary.com/dkvnxps9l/image/upload/c\_crop,h\_3264,w\_3264,x\_824,y\_0/h\_150,w\_150/v1440465685/01-strawberries\_zmtlga.jpg?resize=150%2C150)