Lisa's Page

"If mama ain't happy, then nobody's happy!"
"Ask your mother."
"She has us well trained."
"Mom needs chocolate."

These are just a few things I hear around the house. Yes, I have a good sense of humor and sometimes that's what keeps me from going nuts in this house when there is chaos. Finding the positives in even the most bleak situations is how I manage to keep it all together. Yes, it's hard with two "special needs" kids, but they are a gift from God that I will always treasure no matter what. I feel honored that God picked me out specifically to raise Phillip and Stephen. It must mean I've got good mom skills in there somewhere! I just don't always see it, which I assume is normal for every parent.

I don't really like calling my boys "special" or "different" or "disabled" because they are each fully capable of achieving any goal they set forth for themselves. They are both very, very smart and just so happen to be very, very unique, too. I can definitely say that it's never boring here! So, yes, my kids have Tourette's and Asperger's, but I'm trying to teach them not to let the labels define them. It's something we have to deal with, but it doesn't have to be who they are. They are each uniquely different as are all people - we just have more doctor appointments, teacher conferences and traveling for appointments than your average family. There are times that are very challenging when people say, "I don't know how you do it." Well, it's our "normal." That's how I do it! I do spend a lot of time researching better ways to manage their neurological issues, teach others about them and to advocate for them like it's my job (because it really is).

I do have a "real job," sorta. I am a freelance graphic designer specializing in print and web design. You can learn more about my business online through my personal website portfolio or through Facebook.