Friday, March 25, 2016

March 21

3/21 was World Down syndrome day.  Surprisingly, the very thought of a special day to celebrate the amazing individuals with the extra 21 chromosome was slightly controversial, as well as the videos used to celebrate and spread awareness.  I have to say that when you stop to look at intentions, I don't think there was a negative one in the bunch.  So, we chose to celebrate the day just like we do everyday that extra chromosome has fit like a glove into our lives.  With B being B and us being us.  Trying, struggling, succeeding, failing.  Our Girl leads with her heart, lives in the present moment, accepts, loves and doesn't worry about people's intentions. Without her we (our family) would be less compassionate, less giving, less aware of differences and what is possible,  Most importantly, she can love and be loved.  Overcoming attitudes is the hard part, The Loving is the easy part.

One day we won't need a designated day to show respect to our fellow humans because it will be our default behavior to treat others with dignity and compassion.
Let's celebrate a group of humans who deserve the same love as anyone else. And let's do it everyday.
-Chris (Special Books for Special Kids)

and this video was my favorite:






Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Out like a Lion

March, a month traditionally in the in between of Winter and Spring, traditional has been a slower month.  This year, as in every month, seems busier than ever.  Striking a balance between everything we want to do seems crazy at times so I love and cherish the regular days that we can all just "chill"
 


 He finished his car at the last minute and came in the middle of the pack, the process, the time spent nurturing relationships and the value of making something makes it all worth it. 


 Don't you just love this teachers way of celebrating birthdays?  Promoting kindness in the classroom for the win.


 Basketball season complete.  On deck......Lax.

 He celebrated his 9th birthday in style over two weekends, with cousins and with friends and with MAD SCIENCE!



 swim season complete! 
He made states yet another year!  This sport has taught him the value of hard work.  The support he gets from friends and coaches makes him feel really good.  Many more meets in our future.

Another (small scale) Maple syrup season has come and gone.  Really, there is nothing else that tastes like it.  Aside from that, We've been putting our advocacy hats on at school, and really learning through all the struggles. AND getting ready for some really big transitions in said schools which really has mama on edge.  Thank god for running, friends and a few choice beverages which help to get us through.  This Sprng snow (and snow days) aren't helping!  Happy SPRING y'all!