When my son Tom was eight, he needed a tooth pulled. Or as the pediatric dentist we went to said, “wiggled out.” “Mom, that means he’s pulling my tooth out, yes?” “Yes, Tom.” Then the dentist went to give him a shot of “silly juice,” which would make his mouth feel “funny.” “Mom, that’s Novocaine, right? And, my mouth is going to feel numb, right?” “Yes, … [Read more...]
Some Days
Some days raising a child with significant special needs means witnessing miracles. Simple things that most parents would take for granted become landmarks. If Lizzy answers me when I ask her what dress she would like to wear, or spontaneously lets me know she likes the strawberry ice cream she is eating, that’s a big deal. Some days it feels as if my heart is being torn out … [Read more...]
The Next Frontier for a Princess & Her Mom
I don’t know what I expected to find on Wednesday when I went to a open house at the school for special needs children my daughter will be attending next year. But I didn’t expect to feel such profound sadness. Will I ever completely accept my daughter’s limitations? As I walked the hallways with the other parents, I started to have my doubts. Lizzy will … [Read more...]
Solving the Frustration Equation
The other day I sent an email to my son’s teacher with the subject line, “Re Homework tears, mine, not Peter’s.” I couldn’t believe it that once again, fourth grade was kicking my butt. All of sudden a lifetime of frustration came flooding back to me. Memories of missed recess sitting in a classroom being the only girl among the few kids who didn't finish their work on … [Read more...]
Educating Lizzy
The other day I had my annual parent/teacher conference for my 13-year-old daughter. Each and every time I visit Lizzy’s school, I’m assaulted with a range of emotions, from gratitude and respect for the school’s teachers and staff to dread and sadness as I get buzzed through the heavy doors and enter the lobby. I smile at the attendants at the front desk as I sign the guest … [Read more...]
