Friday, April 12, 2013

30 days of Gratitude

My family and I would like to thank the staff of Jenks Southeast Elementary. Especially Janet Busby, Melissa Spencer, Judy Buffington and Velvet Ahumada.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

30 Days of Gratitude for Autism Awareness Month

Dear Lauren,
Words fail me.  There is no way anybody could possibly understand what you have done for our family.  We wouldn't be where we are without you.  Part of this journey called Autism has been recognizing God's hand in everything.  He led us to every single person in Willow's life.  Every day is a miracle.  Your dedication to my family and my daughter has completely changed her path.  In 2007, Chris and I made the decision to pull our daughter from Union schools and take on the time and expense of a full-time program in our home.  She had just turned three years old.  It was the best decision we ever made for our daughter.  God sent us you and an army of friends, family, and other dedicated professionals to get us through that difficult time.  In the beginning of her therapy, you showed up to our appointments excited to see her every single day excited to share new ideas (even when you knew that we might not have the money to pay you!).  It was complete and total devotion.  You spent countless hours on the phone giving advice, traveled with me across the country to conferences, and helped me navigate this new disorder.  You went above and beyond your job, you were my friend.  You were there for us every step of the way and supported us in all of our decisions, which at that time were often painful and difficult.  Only you and a handful of others will ever know the extent of the sacrifices we made.  Opening the Tulsa Sunshine Center has given so many other families access to your gifts as a therapist.  That is such a blessing to so many families with special needs children.  Knowing you has been such an honor.  Without you she would not be able to speak or read.  She wouldn't be able to tell us she loves us.  You helped our daughter to come back to us.  She is doing things that I never thought would be possible.  It is a debt we can never repay.  Willow loves you.  So much.  Thank you, thank you, thank you....

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

30 Days of Gratitude

There have been so many people over the course of my daughters life that we are grateful for, 30 days isn't enough. Family, friends, therapists, paraprofessionals, teachers, doctors, and even strangers who have saved my daughters life. We are going to be posting videos to thank those people throughout the month. Words cannot express the gift that you have given us. I hope this encourages others to do the same.

Monday, April 8, 2013

Autism Awareness Month

Willow's Second Birthday.  The day she was diagnosed with Autism.
Posted by Picasa

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

In the beginning...

Years ago, there was a competition for Autism Speaks.  I submitted my video.  Obviously, I didn't win but it documents in pictures the early years.  I thought it would make the perfect introduction to my daughter. 

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Willow's Story

April is Autism Awareness month. Over the next 30 days I will attempt to tell Willow's story--our story. If you are looking for a story about recovery and triumph over Autism, you won't find it here. What you will find is a story about a family who sacrificed, stuck together, recovered from tragedy and triumphed over adversity. It's the story of us and God's mercy and faithfulness to all His children. I hope I honor You. Thank You for everything.

Saturday, May 22, 2010

Floortime

I started this blog as way for her therapist, Lauren, and I to share ideas.  I hope this helps you as much as it helps me:-)
Tosha