“Parallel warriors,” I call them! They are strong. They are tender. They are empathetic. They are generous. Who am I talking about? The amazing siblings that surround a special needs kiddo. These siblings create a story all their own and it needs telling. These...
The holidays can be such a wonderful time, but there are also times it can be hard, confusing, and cause deep grief. In fact, the holidays, filled with joy, can also be a reminder of our unique family situation, and our limitations. For years, we have tried different...
I love the Holidays! I always have. I remember all the little things that my mom, who was a single mama, did to make the season so much fun. It was a special time, rich with tradition, even when money was tight. I could not wait to hand some of those little things...
Our beloved daughter Shelby got baptized a few Saturdays ago. She had been asking for a while, and after some coaching through church, she was ready! She was over the moon excited and shared her news with everyone. I mean EVERYONE, at Starbucks, at the grocery store,...
I kept hearing that still small voice in my head, “Just go!” I had made every excuse in the book to just stay home. Excuses like, “No one will sleep.”, “There is so much to pack!”, and “My hubby and I will be on full go even more than usual.” Yet, that small voice...
I remember the scene well. It was a year ago in a tiny coffee shop. I finally met my friend for some much-needed girl time. We had been trying to connect for months but with the busyness of both our lives, we rarely had time. We cozied into our seats and sighed. I...
The moment her eyes met mine she enveloped my soul. I instantly had a deep love for her. As her story unfolded, and we realized she had Down Syndrome, my mama heart swirled. Her bold red hair…. a gift. Her beautiful blue, almond shaped eyes…. mesmerizing. I knew we...
Mamas, there is nothing that squeezes my heart more than thinking about you all on Mother’s Day. It brings joy to my heart and tears to my eyes thinking about all the love and constant encouragement you pour out on your diverse need’s kiddos. Not just this one day,...
I have spent way too much time over the past 5 years trying to figure out how to not have chaos in our home. It is an ongoing cycle that usually ends with me feeling defeated and the kids feeling frustrated. It doesn’t make sense to have 7 people, 5 of whom are...
Fixing cars and assembling things is something I am very good at. Writing about me and sharing struggles and wins in my life…. not so much! I am a husband to one amazing woman as well as a father to five amazing kids. Three of these kiddos have diverse needs, and...
Hi there! We are the crazy cool parents to 5 amazing and crazy cool kiddos. But, first, we are Dan and Elizabeth Thorndike – married 15 years and living this life one moment at a time. We have a full and blessed life, but we are clumsily tackling a journey we never foresaw ourselves living.
Only helpful tips, words of advice and stories to inspire.
