Prior to becoming a parent, I admit to never thinking much about the term inclusion.However, it’s a big part of life now with our special needs son, Carson. For us, inclusion means being part of a community that is understanding of him, supportive and genuinely caring.Inclusion means our non-verbal son is still able to participate… Read more »

Carson was my assistant coach in a recent basketball game.Because his brother’s games are a little later in the evening, Carson has only been to one game this year. While warming up, Carson came out on the court to help rebound. When it came time for the game to start, he had no interest in… Read more »

There’s another column in this paper called “Things I Like.” I’m often told by people how onerous it must be to come up with 11 positive things every week. These same folks usually say they could do it on a weekly basis if they could list “Things I Don’t Like” or “Things I Hate.”I understand… Read more »

Being busy is an excuse many use when we either screw up or can’t do something in a timely fashion.Of all the various responsibilities in my life, I consider being a parent a top priority. That’s why I make sure to not put work or other obligations ahead of the kids. That doesn’t mean I’m… Read more »

The last two weeks have been a blur.Since the third week of December, I have basically spent each day reminding myself what day it is in the week because it has never felt like the day it should be.The main difference with this year’s Christmas and New Year’s weeks was the timing of the holidays…. Read more »

One of these upcoming years photos with Santa will become a thing of the past.Until that sad day comes, however, we will continue to make it an annual tradition, so we can look back at these snapshots in time. Each year when we bring out our Christmas decorations, Pam places each of the framed photos… Read more »

Although it’s sensitive business to talk religious issues, I am feeling the need this time of year.I wish we were able to make it to church more often with our children. The desire and intent is there, but, unfortunately, youth sports on Sundays often keeps us from attending church. It’s a shame we are in… Read more »

It was a week of musical performances for our kids.They were two different experiences but each a lot of fun and sources of pride for us.Our kids’ personalities are about as difficult as they come. Beckett is extroverted, talkative and lively. On the other hand, Carson is introverted, subdued and quiet.Consequently, the prospect of musical… Read more »

Carson cracks me up on a daily basis without saying a word.His sense of humor is such a delight because laughing is so important. He conveys his dry and sophisticated wit, despite the fact he’s non-verbal. I like to think it says a lot about his personality. He tends to be the introverted type around… Read more »

I continue to be a sucker for reading good parenting commentaries.Some of the columns I sluff off as inapplicable to what’s happening in my world, but there are many articles that cover germane topics to what Pam and I think about on a daily basis. I find these stories therapeutic to a degree.In general, I… Read more »