I'm Packing For Our Florida Vacation I'm knee-deep in swimsuits and tank tops. I'm crossing things off my lists (yes, I said lists. I'm that Type-A). And did I mention I loathe packing? Like, I just want to cry as I stare at my empty suitcase. I always take way too much stuff. Last summer I told John, next year I just need shorts and t-shirts. Nothing fancy. He reminded me of my words on Monday. I went through the piles of clothes on my bed several times before narrowing it down to just Continue Reading
Ten Things I Learned In June
Jelly Bean Loves Bubbles Jackson loves bubbles and so does his dog! Jelly Bean springs to life at the first site of bubbles blowing in the wind. She flies across the yard, jumps into the air and pops them with her mouth. It's pretty much the cutest thing ever! I adore these action shots I took of her earlier this month. 2. Depression Doesn't Always Mean You're Sad I've struggled with depression off and on as an adult. For me depression isn't so much about being sad, it's about Continue Reading
Seven Things I Learned In May
1. Tuesdays Won't be the Same We have been blessed to be part of an equine therapy program since August. Unfortunately, the program closed it's doors this month and Jackson took his final ride. There was nothing better than seeing Jackson on top of a horse. I will never forget his first session. He hopped on the horse without an ounce of fear and said the word orange for the first time. From that day on he could say every single one of his colors. He was super excited to receive a trophy Continue Reading
What This Mama Learned From PreK-3
In August I wrote a letter to his teacher. I gave her a glimpse into our world of Apraxia and Sensory Processing Disorder. I asked her to look passed the limited words and rough behaviors, to the amazing, joyful, school-loving kid that I call my son. I had no idea that letter would mark the beginning of a long year of advocating for him. There have been many words written and spoken between myself and school administrators to ensure Jackson received the services he needed to succeed in the Continue Reading
8 Things Apraxia Has Taught Me {Apraxia Awareness Day}
Today is Apraxia Awareness Day. Today I raise my voice to advocate for Jackson and all the other kids with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). Today I educate other's about the speech disorder that steals the voices of so many kiddos; our little guy included. We've been on this journey since Jackson started speech therapy at 18-months-old. I've definitely learned a few things along the way; both beautiful and gut-wrenching lessons. This journey has been filled with joy and pain; hope and Continue Reading