Friday, September 16, 2016

The first touchdown! It maybe the best one I have every seen!

I normally don't write about "it",
a matter of fact I have never written about "it".
Mostly for his protection.
I don't want him feeling labeled.
 I don't want him to be left out. 

But..
I do, however, have to share a story...
about "It".
That "it" is Autism.

My hope for this story is to bring hope.
If we keep our struggles locked inside ourselves..no one can offer us help.

If this story inspires or helps one parent, 
then these words typed have done their job.

Four years ago, my son was diagnosed with Autism.
Some days are filled with great joy, others great struggle.
When we hear a diagnosis, our soul quivers in fear.

The fear of their childhood.
The fear of their future.
Their relationships.
How they will navigate this big world on their own?
How will others know to embrace him or offer grace when he makes a mistake? 
The mistakes do come, the impulsivity comes daily.

But this past week.
My soul was so happy for him.
My heart was exploding with pure JOY for him.
Just typing the words bring tears to my eyes. 

This past week.
My son, was on the field, for his teams first touchdown.
He didn't get the touchdown, but he got to enjoy "sweet success"!
The amazing thing about it all was.
He wasn't out there because of obligation or sympathy by the coach
He was out there, 
just like any other player, 
just like any other team mate.

No one could see his differences under the padding or helmet.
That day 
He put on his jersey 
and
was a football player. That's it.

I have to tell you that when it all happened.
I was in the stands 
and
I could feel the tear slowly roll down my cheek.

I have three boys 
and
 I have seen many goals, touchdowns, good shots, good tackles, good checks, good plays..
But this one was different.
It may have been the most important one I have ever seen.

It was just him being him and being a part of something so wonderful

When you see your child struggle often..
Success seems "so sweet!"
Like the first bite of the best cake you ever had.

So, here we are.
Right now football is fitting.
Thanks to patient coaches and parents.
It may not fit tomorrow, next week or next year.
But, 
for now and on that day, it did.

That night..
After the game
I went to his room.
I layed next to him hugging him.
I told him how proud of him I was.
I was. All of my heart was.
He was smiling ear to ear. A smile that some days "peaks out".



That night, in the quiet of my mind I think.
This will not define who he is.

A Doctor may know his diagnosis, but only God knows his story.

Love, 
Shelby

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

How do you think these measure up? Decorating with 6ft. Rulers!

 Happy Wednesday!!
How's your day measuring up?
The only thing I see measuring up is the snow accumulation.

Enough about the Snow!

Let's cheer ourselves up with a fun project.
Are you ready?
The Do~it~Yourself....6ft. Ruler!!

What's that you ask?
It's a fun way to show off your growing child, plus it adds a fun design element to any room.

First Up..We have this cute "Artwork display Area"
By: Home is what you make it!
They have the 6ft. ruler,
Next to it..
They have clipboards for displaying kids artwork..
You can just switch it out!

H
Source: www.homeiswhatyoumakeit.com

Next Up,
We have this adorable Spring Front Porch.
My dear neighbor made me one a few years back & this is exactly what I'm doing with mine!
The designer from: Cottage in the Oaks
Added some adorable Lanterns, Mason Jars, flowers, and a cute chalkboard to make it complete!
Source: www.cottageintheoaks.com

This next one even looks adorable in a living room!
This Chevron Ruler from:
Will run you around $67.00 but is Oh so Cute!


 A more affordable option from Etsy is the Burlap Version
Love how it just lays nicely next to any door, taking up little space!
Like what you see?
Want to try to make one at on your own?
 Follow this Link for the Easy Do it yourself Instructions:

Looking for a Different Color or Style:
This one would be adorable in a Nursery
&
It's easy and affordable!
Source here: http://www.thepinningmama.com/5-30-minute-wooden-growth-chart/

If you are like me and need to watch something to learn how!
Here is a great tutorial :)



Not sure your Ready to "do it yourself"
You can purchase them on Etsy!

These are from:
They are adorable with the names on them & run around $67.00 

Hope You Enjoyed today's Do-it Yourself Project!

Thanks,
Shelby

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