Elizabeth sent me this picture of her and her sorority sister, Isabelle. They were visiting a cider mill and enjoying the day with their sisters. I love to see her big heart and smile, and loving life on her own. She has more than earned this time. She and her twin sister, Katherine, are great … Continue reading The Bright Side
Wil Rode the School Bus Today!
Wil rode the school bus today. In this house we take no such statements for granted. In middle school, Wil riding the bus proved unsuccessful. He was already having a hard time transitioning to a new school with new educators and hormones were in full effect. The middle school years are challenging; then add in … Continue reading Wil Rode the School Bus Today!
Special Needs Siblings
These two young women have stepped up to the plate more than most realize; and they do it with love and grace. That said, Katherine and Elizabeth treat Wil like any little brother — loving him, being annoyed with him, and standing up for him. Their life requires an extra level that is not easy … Continue reading Special Needs Siblings
You Go Girl!
At the airport yesterday, Wil was struggling a bit with some young children crying. As a Starbucks was nearby, I asked Elizabeth to walk him over there while I stayed with our carry-on luggage (as Katherine was in another shop). Wil was reluctant at Starbucks too, so Elizabeth walked him back to sit with me. … Continue reading You Go Girl!
Girl Time
Wil sat down on the bench. I sat next to him and watched a droplet of sweat slip down the side of his forehead. It was 88 degrees and he’d already been walking for 90 minutes. Katherine was to our left crouched in front of a hyena. She snapped a few close-up photos. The hyena … Continue reading Girl Time
A Darn Straight Day
“Mom, I worked hard today!” Wil shouted as he threw the car door open and took a seat right behind me. The school day had just ended. Elizabeth slid into the passenger seat and Katherine jumped in next to Wil. “No way, Wil, not three days in a row.” I said. “Yes!” “Nope, not possible.” … Continue reading A Darn Straight Day
We All Have Hard Stuff
Yesterday, I just didn’t have it in me. Yesterday, I did not have the patience that on somedays I find miles of. Some days I wish Wil would just get up and get in the car when I ask him to. Some days I wish I could say, “We are leaving in 20 minutes,” and … Continue reading We All Have Hard Stuff
In Sync
As Wil has gotten older, it’s clear he needs closer friends with Down syndrome. He has wonderful friends at school that love and support him fully. As the gap in abilities with his typical peers grows and social lives expand, Wil also needs to cultivate friendships with those whose abilities match his. Manny’s family lives … Continue reading In Sync
Chicken Tender Caper
Last night I made “healthy” chicken tenders (soaked in almond milk, whole wheat bread crumbs, etc). I took the tenders out of the oven, hollered to Matt, Elizabeth and Wil, who were outside, dinner was ready then took Katherine to Crossfit. I returned to Elizabeth telling me Wil ate almost 2 pounds of the tenders, … Continue reading Chicken Tender Caper
Navigating Methods of Plane Sailing
“The gate is closing in four minutes, ma’am.” An airline representative said to me as I sat on the floor with Wil. “Yes, thank you. I just can’t get him up. I’m trying.” Katherine was standing by our bags and Elizabeth and I tried to lift Wil up into a wheelchair to roll him onto … Continue reading Navigating Methods of Plane Sailing