Define Sleep: A natural periodic state of rest for the mind and body, in which the eyes usually close and consciousness is completely or partially lost, so that there is a decrease in bodily movement and responsiveness to external stimuli. During sleep the brain in humans and other mammals undergoes a characteristic cycle of brain-wave…
Category Archives: Day In And Day Out
An Open Letter to the Doctor
Dear Doctor (you can insert name here), I promised that this year I was going to be the kinder, gentler version of myself. Until I sat in your office. My appointment was at 8. You sent the resident to subdue us at 9:15. Said resident obviously doesn’t know the ABC’s of nursing/medicine (Always Bring the…
He’s a Little Runaway
Regardless of the fact that the title of this post conjures up images of bad eighties Bon Jovi music, Ian is a little runaway. He’s an eloper. He tends to “wander off”. But only at home. Ian has never, ever been content being boxed into one space for too long. He would leave his room…
Where’s the Line?
I realize I’ve been writing here for several weeks now without really introducing myself or my daughter. I haven’t written much about her specific challenges or my responses to them. I guess I expected all of this to come out more naturally, but there’s a hang up — which I’ll explain shortly. Our daughter is…
She Is Their Best Friend
She is their best friend. I see it in their faces, hear it in their play, watch it in the way they fight over the smallest piece of junk, determined that their need to treasure this particular item is deeper than the other. Then, just as easily, one gives in. One notices the tears of…
Is Your Medical Team Super Bowl Bound?
Without blocking, receiving and tackling, even the most talented quarterback will be on the sidelines during the Big Game. As special needs parents, we are on a team with the medical professionals who care for our children. What position do we play? How can we make our team Super?
It’s still okay to play. So join the fun!
I’ve always loved playing tag. As a camp counselor during college, I ran all over the playground with the kids in my groups. I’ve never really stopped playing like a kid. I jump on our trampoline, chase my dog around the front yard, throw pillows at my kids and tickle them when they’re being too…
My Biggest Secret
I am going to admit something here that I’m not sure I’ve ever told anyone. I’ve been trying really hard this year to feel good enough, to not want to be anything more than I am at this moment, and I feel part of that journey is to let go of all demons. So here…
All kids are created…equally?
Obviously whenever someone decides to begin this journey known as parenting, we (for the most part) all hope and dream the BIGGEST things for our kids. When you are presented with a “special needs child” you realize that you still have big goals, although they might have to be tinkered with a little bit. For…
Simple Comforts…
Zoe’s little girl hands are petite, and although her body is ever challenged to maintain her balance with any forward movement- Zoe’s hugs are big and strong. Bigger than her size and stronger than her muscles, her hugs are magical and healing. She offers her affection intuitively, seeking out those she loves and those who…