Have you ever had a commercial slogan or jingle stuck in your head? Of course you have! I’m dating myself, I know, but back in the early ‘90’s there was a commercial that used to tout a certain cough syrup’s superiority by boasting that it was not only prescribed by physicians and pharmacists, but it was also recommended by “Doctor Mom.” It stuck with me. The implication was that because of … [Read more...]
All I Want For Christmas Is To Not Be Your Project
It’s the season of giving. As we remember a Savior who left the glory and comfort of heaven to move into our mess, we all feel compelled to celebrate with charity and extra acts of kindness. At no other time of year is a dark and hurting world more receptive to the hope of Jesus that we joyously pour out of ourselves. Yet, there’s something more behind this perennial philanthropy that eats at … [Read more...]
7 Steps To Transform Your Holidays
I don’t know about you, but I’m already beginning to feel pressed by the approaching holiday season. The expectations of others have already commenced their slow, grinding, painful squeeze on my psyche. Will Grandma be in suitable condition to leave assisted living for Thanksgiving? Does Auntie need a ride from the airport? Where is everyone staying? Who has off of school or work and when? Why … [Read more...]
Look Around!
"Call me if you need anything." It is an incredibly frustrating, well-meaning phrase that we parents of complex kids hear all too often. Yet, we rarely do pick up that phone to call. Sometimes it is because it just feels too awkward. Other times, we're afraid of hearing "no." But there can be another reason that we don't call, besides feeling humiliated. Speaking with numerous special … [Read more...]
Back-To-School, Back To Isolation
The women down the street are popping the champagne for mimosas as they join together for a mothers party to celebrate the first day of school. All of their cute Pinterest-y photos of kids neatly groomed holding chalkboards proclaiming their first day of 1st Grade, 7th Grade, or Senior year have already littered the Facebook feed. The joyful smell of new school supplies and lingering warm weather … [Read more...]
WHY DOESN’T SHE PLAY WITH KIDS HER OWN AGE?
Isolation. Rarely is the bone-aching pain of special needs so completely summed up in one word. The word conjures up images of life going on while the unpopular and unfit are left behind; the loneliness of hours upon hours dragging on with no phone calls, no visits from friends, no invitations from others come to mind; being marginalized, ignored, treated as an annoyance, or unlovable by everyone … [Read more...]