About Me

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I am a below knee amputee. More importantly, I am also Mommy to two boys, a very active 10 year old (Robby) and an mischievous toddler (Timmy). I have learned that being a parent with a disability can create some unusual and sometimes humorous situations. This blogger is available for hire! Let's talk and learn how a blog can expand your business.

Friday, June 02, 2017

Going Home Anxiety

Tonight I will be hopping on a red eye and heading home. I'm looking forward to going home, but absolutely dreading the overnight flight. I'm worried about not being able to sleep on the plane, and I have no doubt that this anxiety lend to a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Normally I wouldn't be stressed about sleeping on the flight because I would just rest when I got home. I won't have that opportunity tomorrow because I am anticipating an extremely active day. Tomorrow we are going to the World War II weekend in Pennsylvania, an event that Robby has been anticipating for months.

Robby and Scott are picking me up at the airport when I land (6 am) and we will immediately start driving North.  My Mom is going to meet us en route for breakfast and to transfer Timmy back into our care.  We will then continue up to the festival, where we will spend the day looking at planes, tanks and all things World War II related.

Going through the World War II festival is exhausting under the best circumstances. The prospect of taking the kids when I'm sleep deprived is unnerving. Hence the reason I'm anxious about catching some sleep on the plane. 

Any tips from more experienced midnight fliers?

Thursday, June 01, 2017

California Dreaming

Hello from California (day 2).

Between orientation meetings and my presentation, yesterday kept me busy. I didn't have a chance to miss my kids until I returned to my hotel room.  I don't like eating alone, and sitting in my hotel room with a take out box of ravioli from the hotel restaurant, I felt extremely lonely. I am really rather pathetic because I become homesick after 24 hours away.

I was happy to talk with Robby, who eager recounted all of the days adventures.  Scott was able to leave work a little early, which allowed him to surprise Robby with a trip to the park. Afterwards he went to Taekwondo, where he seemed to have a great time. He happily talked to me while I ate my dinner, filling the void and the silence in my room.

Timmy had a day full of his own adventures. My sister took him and her kiddos to Hershey Park, where Hamlet experienced his first amusement park rides. Initially I was sad when I realized that he was experiencing a "first" with somebody else. However, my selfish reaction was quickly replaced when I realized that he was having fun. I don't want him to be miserable and sad while I'm away. I want him to be happy, giggly and having a blast. By all counts, that is exactly what happened.

Today my orientation meetings continue, but the pressure of my looming presentation is gone. It went well and I immediately felt a weight lifted off my shoulders. Hopefully my boys and I will have another great day!


Wednesday, May 31, 2017

California

Good morning from California!

Yesterday was quick moving, which is probably a good thing. Between celebrating Robby's birthday, running errands, packing, driving Timmy to meet my Mom and going to the airport, I was frazzled and ready to rest when I boarded the plane.  I felt horrible leaving the boys, especially Robby on his birthday, but this trip is imperative. I know that he had a special day, and that the celebration will continue this weekend as we tackle the World War II weekend.

Timmy seemed delighted to see my Mom, and did not fuss when she drove off with him in the SUV instead of me. Of course, having my nephews there to entertain him during the transition certainly helped. He lights up when he is around the "big kids."

This morning I'm waking up in California, and getting ready for a long day of meetings. I am presenting a report this afternoon, and I would be lying if I didn't admit to being nervous. I've done the prep work, let's hope that I can present the information coherently! But first I'm off to find some coffee.  This hotel room doesn't have a coffee pot *gasp.*  

Wish me luck today with my presentation!

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Happy 11th Birthday Robby

Dear Robby,

Happy Birthday to my sweet, loving, sensitive and curious little Koopa. Wow, where did the time go? It baffles me that I was just meeting you for the first time 11 years ago today. I remember holding you in my arms, falling instantly and completely in love.

Robby, you continue to bring adventure and enthusiasm to our lives. You have such a wonderfully unique perspective on the world, and I am amazed by your poetic way with words. You are on the horizon of a bright future, but right now I want you to remain my little boy.

You see, Momom isn't quite ready for you to become a teenager. I see glimpses of a burgeoning independence and it makes me feel both proud and sad. I am looking forward to seeing what your future holds because I have no doubt that it will be filled with amazing experiences and adventures. At the same time, I want you to always need me as much as you do right now.

I know as you spread your wings you will fly in new and wonderful directions. But please, for just a little while, don't stretch your wings too far. I know that you feel ready to grow up, but understand that your Daddy and I aren't ready to let go.

We love you Robby! I hope that you have a wonderful day. Continue to be your authentic self, because I think you're awesome.

Love,
Momom

Monday, May 29, 2017

Happy Memorial Day!!

Happy Memorial Day!

Today we will finally make our inaugural visit to the pool.
Swim suits were purchased yesterday, and our pool bag has been packed in anticipation of warmer temperatures and sunshine. I'm sure that the water will be frigid, but that will be no deterrent for my little water bugs.

Timmy has mastered floating and playing in his life jacket, so this summer we will spend the majority of our time in the "big kid" pool. I've spent the past three summers splashing in 18 inches of suspiciously warm water in the baby pool. I'm looking forward to being submerged and playing in the pool with both of my boys at the same time. 

Although I am anticipating a day of fun, part of me is feeling sad.  Tomorrow evening I head to California, leaving Timmy with my Mom and Scott to care for Robby at home. I know that they will be fine, but I hate when we have to scatter. I'm going to do my best to enjoy today while hoping that the rest of this week flies by quickly.

I'm lucky that my Mom is able to help with Timmy. I know that he will be spoiled and happy under her care. My niece and nephews are home from school and are eager helpers and playmates for their youngest cousin. I have a feeling that he will be so entertained and busy that he won't miss me much, which is a good thing. It's easier to be away when I know that he is happy.