Navigating Life's Detours
Finding the right path for a teen with special needs
Tag: family
Birthday wishes to an amazing sister
Christmas was simply the beginning of birthday season in my family. When I was younger, there was a multitude of birthdays just after the new year. My grandfather had a birthday on Jan. 13, followed by my mother on Jan. 15, my sister on… Continue Reading “Birthday wishes to an amazing sister”
To mom on her 73rd birthday
My dearest mom, There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t think about you several times. It’s been almost five years since you left us, and I still miss your almost daily phone calls and chance to get together for a meal… Continue Reading “To mom on her 73rd birthday”
Giving thanks
It’s officially the holiday season. I know that because I turned the radio in the car on today, and the Christmas carols were playing. As we sit down to celebrate Thanksgiving, it’s time to reflect on what has happened this year and what I’m… Continue Reading “Giving thanks”
Remembering Belle
Dear Belle, Paige and I were different people when you and Ariel came into our lives. We were newlyweds, both in school, and I knew two kittens would be just what Paige needed in our new apartment in Lake Mary. What a birthday present… Continue Reading “Remembering Belle”
The J.P. Story: Mixed blessings
Dad’s note: In honor of J.P.’s 12th birthday, I’m writing “The J.P. Story,” which looks back at our journey through birth and now approaching teen-hood. I hope you enjoy. The ninth chapter looks at how we learned of J.P.’s disabilities and the way doctors informed… Continue Reading “The J.P. Story: Mixed blessings”
The talented Mr. Royalty
Earlier this month, I posted about Paige’s back problems and inability to lift J.P. for the past few weeks. Unfortunately, the problem caught us a bit off-guard. We have no lift in the house for J.P., and we have no nursing help or aide… Continue Reading “The talented Mr. Royalty”
The J.P. Story: Early steps
Dad’s note: In honor of J.P.’s 12th birthday, I’m writing “The J.P. Story,” which looks back at our journey through birth and now approaching teen-hood. I hope you enjoy. The eighth chapter looks at how we got started on our journey with J.P. after being… Continue Reading “The J.P. Story: Early steps”
Growing child leads to aching back
It’s been a tough couple of weeks in the Cousins’ household. We’ve been dealing with a sick 19-year-old cat, and a wife with some serious back pain. Not only is that bad for Paige, but consequently, I’m called to do more lifting, and then my… Continue Reading “Growing child leads to aching back”
Silver Belle
Many of you probably remember I started this blog back in May as J.P., Paige and I were preparing for our team training at Canine Companions for Independence. We were blessed to be given a 2-year-old Labrador-golden retriever mix named Karina. Karina has adapted… Continue Reading “Silver Belle”
Family gathers for J.P.’s 12th birthday
It’s hard to believe J.P. is 12 years old, especially as I’ve spent the past week telling the first part of The J.P. Story. Writing about that incredible time has been enhanced by digging through photo albums, and recalling the amazing experience with Paige… Continue Reading “Family gathers for J.P.’s 12th birthday”
Blogs I Follow
Blogs I Follow
