“Normality is a paved road: It’s comfortable to walk, but no flowers grow.”-Vincent Van Gogh Cradled in her arms is her first grandchild. At two months of age, Wyatt craves the comfort of a warm embrace and the sway of arms that hold him while he sleeps. As I watch Patti gently rocking Wyatt toContinue reading “Different Path and Different Journey”
Tag Archives: #specialneedsfamily
New Year, Recurring Fear
There is something beautiful about starting a new year. Each year is a recurring clean slate. The past year is behind us, and a new year is ahead. I was extra excited that January 1st fell on a Sunday this year. I love to plan my week on Sunday mornings. I time block my week,Continue reading “New Year, Recurring Fear”
Advocacy Her Way
Learning has always been something I enjoyed. I was the kid that could not wait to go to school. I loved the discovery and excitement in each new day. I continue to study, learn, grow, and be curious. Throughout my educational journey, I have had some pretty wonderful (and not-so-wonderful) teachers, but my greatest teacherContinue reading “Advocacy Her Way”
Recovering Puddle Jumper
I went from whimsy to woeful and back again in the past several weeks. I appreciate those of you that have come along for the wild emotional ride. Amid life being Lifey, I have neglected to celebrate some wins. Noteworthy things happened in the past few weeks, but I have minimized them. This is commonContinue reading “Recovering Puddle Jumper”
Disabled Children and Traveling Challenges
When Todd and I were married, we dreamed of all the places we would travel to and the adventure we would share. Before we had children, we would take trips. We mostly traveled the Pacific Northwest and a few trips to Mexico. We did not have the finances to travel overseas. One day, after theContinue reading “Disabled Children and Traveling Challenges”
Caregiver Burnout: Understand it. Prevent it.
Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. It may be accompanied by a change in attitude, from positive and caring to negative and unconcerned. Burnout can occur when caregivers don’t get the help they need, or if they try to do more than they are able, physically, emotionally, or financially. ManyContinue reading “Caregiver Burnout: Understand it. Prevent it.”
Making Time to Connect
This last week was incredible. I had the opportunity to connect with friends and family in person. There is something magical about getting together and sharing a meal, a meditation, a walk, a story. It is incredible when the experience fuels your soul and fills your cup. I was blessed to have several energizing interactionsContinue reading “Making Time to Connect”
Just Don’t Quit
How have we made it work? How has our relationship lasted for over 36 years? There is no magic or secret sauce. The answer is simply not giving up on each other. We both refuse to quit.
The Suck In Being Stuck Together
Emily needs a life outside of the house with her peers. She needs people other than mom interacting with her. At the end of the day, I want us to delight in being around each other. I want to not only love each other but like each other again. I want to find the end of suck in the stuck together spiral we have been swirling in for months.
Celebration Minus Expectation
I threw away the manual on milestones and expectations for Emily’s progress and achievements. I started to practice acceptance and release control.
Conversation for Change 