Do you have those classic questions that people have been asking you over and over again since your unique parenting journey began? You know the ones I mean. That same thing or two you've heard people inquire year after year after year? I know that I have heard one relentless question since the day my son was first diagnosed with Hemophilia A - Severe 18 years ago — "Will he ever get … [Read more...]
How to Rise Above Disappointment
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. (Psalm 118:1) These are the first words I read in my devotional book this morning as I sit on the beach, alone, disappointment hanging over me like a big, black cloud. I watch the waves ebb and flow, leaving rainbow-flecked foam in their wake. I want to give thanks to the Lord, but disappointment makes thanksgiving almost … [Read more...]
Sometimes, a Mom Needs to Be Mothered
"I've got a sinus infection," I texted the friend who was picking me up at an unfamiliar airport in an unfamiliar town. "Do you have any antibiotics?" "We've got your back," she replied. She wasn't kidding. When she delivered me to our destination, she and my other friends had arranged an array of medications on the bathroom counter—everything and more than I needed to beat the nasty bug … [Read more...]
When the World Stares at My Daughter
The little girl walking on the sidewalk ahead of us clutches her mother's hand, but continues to turn around and curiously survey my daughter as she sweeps her white cane back and forth with each step she takes. I smile at the little girl and continue the conversation I'm having with my daughter. It used to bother me when strangers would stare. My daughter was born with her eye condition, … [Read more...]
Your Body, Not Your Fault
Every Tuesday night (except for when I have a good excuse not to) I drag myself over to the YMCA for cycle class. It's not an ideal time, but it's a rare hour after dinner, and after one kid is in bed, that I can squeeze in a workout thanks to my supportive husband. Not only is it not an ideal time, but I don't exactly love the instructor’s style. The music isn't that great and he yells a LOT … [Read more...]
The Sunny Side of Life
Each morning I make my husband Joe and I an egg. The goal is to make our eggs “sunny side up” but if (when) the yolk breaks, plan B is in effect: scrambled is served! And plan B happens most of the time! Similarly, every day caring for one with special needs is like that. That sums up our life – how about yours? Everyday we set out for “sunny side up”, hoping we’ve all awakened on the right … [Read more...]