We have the awesome privilege of getting away together as a couple to speak around the country on the topic of marriage. We love what we get to do, but even so, as we are surrounded by 500-1500 people, we are not alone! We love that we have various ministries in which we are involved, but often we have to divide and conquer (one staying home/one going) in order to be a part of the event. Very … [Read more...]
Thankful for Helping Hands
A very full day and evening with Joey ended with a nice ride home and a very cooperative time getting him changed and into bed. He flopped into bed like one of his Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls! And so did I! I couldn’t have “done” that day alone. I had helpers. And as I look in the rearview mirror of his 36 years, I again realize we’ve had many wonderful people in his life helping him and us … [Read more...]
Bueller? Bueller? ANYONE?
“Joey, Joey, can you please get your shoes for work? Joey, Joey.” “Joey, time to brush your teeth. Joey, Joey…..” “Joey, let’s sit down for dinner. Joey, Joey….JOEY.” Honestly sometimes I feel like I’m talking to the wind getting him to move and do something I’m requesting! I know he hears me, but I don’t think I’m getting through. I am appreciative that Joey can walk, talk (a little), … [Read more...]
In the Eye of the Storm
We have a home in Florida: Ft. Myers to be specific. With all the news and anticipation of Hurricane Irma hitting (slamming) land, there is a swirl of emotions as I write this. We have many friends, family, acquaintances, and neighbors that will be affected by this storm as it blasts through the whole state of Florida. The whole state—that’s hard to comprehend. One can’t properly or adequately … [Read more...]
“I Just Want to Quit!”
Maybe those words have never fallen out of your mouth, but they have mine! I hate to admit it, but there are days when I’ve just had enough. A friend whose life is similar to mine has confessed to me (as I have to her) that we have said these words not only in our heads but they’ve come out of our mouths. And sometimes they have been with anger, exhaust, and a few other emotions! A … [Read more...]
The Bumpy and Unexpected Journey with Special Needs
Most of us clasp our hands around our airplane seat divider exposing our white knuckles trying to act like we’re really reading that book in our other hand and really comprehending it when the ride starts to get bumpy. But not for Joey. He loves the bumps! Sure, we’re doing just fine! But for Joey, it really is fine. Bumpy is life with a child with special needs. They have many needs, … [Read more...]