The only parenting stage I have ever hated is potty training. I have loved it once our kids are independent in the bathroom, but every. single. step. before that is painful. Sometimes I joke that the best part of adopting older kids is that we skipped that stage with three of our six children. I’ve been afraid to say this out loud but I think we’re at that stage for Zoe. She’s interested. … [Read more...]
Every Life Matters When God Writes the Story
When I was a little girl, going shopping with my parents was a little scary. Because of Leon. Leon sat in his rusty wheelchair, clothed in rags, his body hunched and dirty, his smile toothless, holding a cup full of pencils for sale in his twisted hand. Most people walked right by, as if he wasn't there, though a few slipped a nickel in the cup and took a pencil. Leon scared me. But he didn't … [Read more...]
Trusting In God In the Midst of Trial
Stephen was stoned to death. He trusted in God completely, even as he was being falsely accused, he trusted in God and he still lost his life. My husband preached about Stephen on Sunday and I kept thinking about our own family, our own trials, our own suffering, how disability impacts us and how often I cry out to God to help me, to help our family. Trusting in God in the midst of trial … [Read more...]
She Opened Her Door
“How many doors will suddenly close as we go down the hall today?” “How many stares will we get along the way?” “What if he stops to squeal, make his loud noises, or stomp his feet so forcefully every few steps?” “Oh God, please let us make it out of the building today without any hurtful incidents.” Our son’s Comprehensive Development Classroom was at the very end of what I was convinced was … [Read more...]
wearing my special needs mama badge like a snug pair of jeans
Let me start with an apology to our male readers: I have absolutely no idea if this post will leave you confused or if you'll relate or if you'll worry that my next topic will be about visiting the ObGyn. (don't worry. it won't.) But this week a friend has been on my mind, a friend who is just beginning to realize that she is now that special needs mama she never planned to be. As I prayed … [Read more...]
Weekend Links: Vol. 13
For a 100th day of school project, Ellen Stumbo helped her girls compile a display of 100 beautiful faces of kids with Down Syndrome. This post will make your eyes water with beautiful love. Barb at Snappin' Ministries asked her husband to write his thoughts about why he stays in their marriage. The Today Show featured the story of Canadian skier (and gold medalist!) Alex Bilodeau … [Read more...]