I wish I had more time to write on eSpeciallyBen . Ben teaches us lessons on a regular basis: Smile often, give hugs, sit down and savor the moment, grab someone's hand to let them know you care and laugh with abandon–even if it annoys your brother. Ben will be 18 this summer. He attends high school in-person and enjoys seeing his classmates and teachers each day. In the photo above, it's 6 a.m. and he's can't wait to get on the bus. As for most people, the pandemic has been tough. Ben's in-person activities, camps and programs were canceled. He's happy to see grandma when we met on a Charlotte greenway or park. Ben seeks out social interactions and being quarantined away from friends and family was even more difficult because he didn't understand why. Ben's teacher sends me photos of him throughout the week. They just finished a rousing game of catch here. Thank you for following eSpeciallyBen. If you want to see what I'm working on now, find me
These stories describe our journey with Ben, our oldest son. Ben is a sweet and energetic redhead, born with a rare genetic mutation. My husband, Ryan, and I try to keep up with Ben and his two younger brothers. I intend to shed insight into raising a child with disabilities and pass on the wisdom we’ve earned over the past two decades.
What a wonderful story -- I am glad there are people like that in the world!
ReplyDeleteAnd that is one cute idea for an appreciation card for a teacher. Does he like having his hands painted? Our little guy only likes it if it is *his* idea.
Ben does not love arts and crafts - he tolerates it. He has gotten more patient with painting and crayons as he's gotten older. But his preference would be to tear the paper and eat the crayon.
ReplyDeleteBen's teacher has taught me that even if he just helps in one way, like handing the macaroni or whatever the piece is to the teacher, then she glues it, then he has helped with the project. This has helped me create expectations of Ben that he can tolerate and meet.
I didn't know last week was teacher appreciation week! What a creative way to say thank you :) Great work, Ben!
ReplyDelete~Michelle @ 5MFSN