Exactly one year ago this week my father marked his 100th birthday. Lots of family and friends attended his “party” to celebrate this huge milestone and to wish him well. My father’s good health and mental sharpness were certainly contributing factors to him becoming a centenarian. While I certainly didn’t take that for granted, we had every reason to believe that there would be another party … [Read more...]
Special Needs Has Me Surrounded
"Oh, my. You have your hands full." I've heard it. It's been said to me too many times to count. Go on, hands up. I know it has been said to you, too. How many of you have had heard this, not just once, but so many well-meaning times? There is no doubt in my mind, people, special needs has me surrounded. But, it's not what you're thinking. My open mouth/insert foot thing to say to these people … [Read more...]
Unnoticed Until It’s Not Done
My motto, as a former Home Economics teacher, planner, and time manager is this: Do no job before it’s time! I carry that into may other areas of life, but one area it won’t work is in the care of our children with special needs! I don’t want to do what doesn’t need to be done, until it needs to be done. I don’t have the time or energy to do silly chores, errands, and things that waste my … [Read more...]
How can we survive grief as a special needs parent?
Since the first of March, grief has been my not-so-quiet companion. I try to keep most of my crying contained; when I’m in the shower or times when my two sons and husband aren’t home. But the grief and sadness burst out at random and inopportune moments. When will my eyes stop leaking? According to medicinenet.com grief is “the normal process of reacting to a loss.” It goes on to list … [Read more...]
The Mean Girl Dilemma and Autism
Sitting among the group she silently watched while waiting with anticipation as invitations were distributed. Every girl received the coveted prize but her. In her mind she thought it was just a mistake so the conversation played out like this, “I didn’t get my invitation.” “I don’t have on for you.” “Oh, well it’s ok, my mom can talk to your mom. She will say I can go.” “Um, no, it’s … [Read more...]
Please Be Kind To My Son
Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves. Proverbs 11:17 I sat on the bench with my husband and daughter. We were at a park taking a break while my son Charlie (4 at the time) went on the playground right in front of us. As we sat and watched, another boy kept following Charlie and trying to ask him something. At the time Charlie couldn't say too … [Read more...]