Kindness...

I stumbled across this quote, though I don't know whom to give credit...
"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."

I just spent a week in San Jose, visiting my sister and sister in law. By myself. Whaaaatt?? It was amazing. It was quiet. I was able to regain some of my sanity that has been slowly seeping from my body. I was introduced to Psycho Donuts, Meatless Mondays, and Frost cupcakes (which will be featured on the upcoming episodes of Cupcake Wars, by the way). My life will never be the same...

I always have an unforgettable time in San Jose, because Flo and Kristin are two of my most favorite people.  But this vacation was different. I was introduced (again) to an incredible family. There aren't words to describe how they made me feel. The above quote helps. A little. They opened their doors to me. They welcomed me in. They treated me like family. And I fell in love with their children. We had grown up conversations, they asked me thought provoking questions, they asked me about me. I felt like my own person again. I don't remember the last time I felt that way. It is always about my kids. Which is fine, because they are truly the reason I get up in the morning. Well, that and the 4 cats who are yelling in my face, but I digress. So, since I seem to express myself better in writing, I want to thank you. For everything. And I can't wait to see everyone again in August. Be ready to party. Everyday, because Brett is coming. Look out, California.

But, back to life. Back to reality. Tantrums. Cat barf. Meltdowns. Fights with schools. Sleep deprivation. Sigh. 

Right now, Doug and I are struggling with a tough decision. We withdrew Jordan from school in December, because the program wasn't providing him with what he needed. The school district ordered him his diploma, but the program he was in neglected to include him in the upcoming graduation. This will be the second time he's been excluded from a graduation ceremony. We are able to have him participate this year, but we have only 2 weeks to get him a cap and gown, and the class has been practicing for the ceremony for a while. Now, I'm pretty sure I can't just run out and buy a cap and gown...The programs have already gone to the printers. Without Jordan. What parent doesn't want to see their child graduate from high school? But, does Jordan even care? Are we doing this for us? Absolutely. As parents of 2 kids with many special needs, we are denied many, many milestones and life events. We are, however, provided with so many more accomplishments that most people take for granted. That is just one small part of what makes my life so amazing.