The Christmas and New Year’s weeks were a blur.Over the course of the two weeks, Pam and I tried to take off as much time as schools were closed. Most of us in my house woke up each day wondering what day it was. It felt like 12 straight Saturdays. It was great. Aside from… Read more »

(Editor’s Note: Due to early deadlines this week, I dusted off an archive from Christmas week 2009 for republication.)A morning spent in the emergency room will surely make this a Christmas I will never forget. My oldest son, Beckett, is a “bruiser.” I find him hilarious, particularly during meals of late when he consistently points… Read more »

The last week of school before holiday break is the best and the worst.It reminds me of a recent “Saturday Night Live” skit featuring Matt Damon and Cecily Strong. The skit portrays the two as a couple finally sitting down to some peace and quiet on Christmas night for a conversation about their hectic day…. Read more »

Though there are examples to prove the contrary, I am generally amazed at how understanding people are when it comes to our special needs kid.Carson has come incredibly far with his behaviors. When I compare him today to how he was a few years ago, it’s impossible to not be incredibly proud of his progress…. Read more »

Playing is a lot easier than coaching.The amount of restraint and patience needed with coaching is something I never appreciated while playing sports growing up in recreation leagues, in high school and in college.When I was an athlete, the perfect coach to me married the appropriate messaging when needed while making the sport fun. A… Read more »

It’s an eerie feeling living something you know you will never forget.Last Friday was one of those days for us. We spent much of the day at Carson’s school, Ocean City Elementary, for American Education Week, taking part in a gingerbread house session in his classroom in the morning and then the first term awards… Read more »

Somewhere along the way we went wrong.Beckett has an expectation of a prize or reward for anything he does well or for any good deed.When he brought home a solid report card this month, he inquired immediately about what he would be getting for doing such a great job in his first term in middle… Read more »

As I often mention in this space, I read a ton of parenting articles, especially online blogs written by special needs parents. I identify with these people on so many levels due to our 10-year-old son Carson.For the first time in the 11 years I’ve been writing this column, I admit to some difficulty finding… Read more »

It was early, but it was hilarious.On Sunday, the first morning after daylights savings time ended, Carson came into our room around 7 a.m. This is normal each morning. He jumps out of bed, runs (or more like stomps) to our room to look at the digital clock on the dresser.  If the time is… Read more »

I am constantly amazed at what my kids do and do not remember.My boys, 11 and 9, are high-maintenance kids. I’m not talking negatively of them. It’s just the way they are at this point in their lives. They need us.I am fortunate to have friends with kids nearly the same age as mine. Therefore,… Read more »