A day in the life at the Gleason Zoo

Last week we started Hunter with an additional PT.  I couldn't believe the difference in the style of how his therapy was done.  Instead of just observing him, and doing a few small things...this therapist worked my little boy until he was out of breath!!  Not in a bad way, but it made me realize how many things he is lacking in yet. She was also more positive than I remember her being.  You see, this is the same therapist that we saw in the NICU.  She was a bit more stern there, and not as positive about his diagnosis.  She made it seem as though he would never be able to do much of anything.  I asked her about this during his session, and she apologized profusely, and stated that she never intended to come across that way, but didn't want to give us false hope that this long road was going to be paved with gold, and full of unicorns and sunshine.  It's a HARD road, and we needed to know that.  I appreciated her honesty, and watching her w...

I wonder how many other people out there wish they could travel back in time to see their parents at their peak?  I've heard so many stories about my parents, and their "party" days, that I'd love to be a fly on the wall to see them for myself!!  I thought I would share a few stories of my beloved parents.  To keep them fresh in my memory, and to document them for future generations, because damn it, some of these stories are funny as Hell!! The first story that comes to mind is of my father, and his temper.  Those who know my dad know that he has the temper of the devil, and one doesn't want to get on his bad side.  Ever.  I've heard this story from more than one person, so I'm quite sure the events aren't exaggerated...much. Apparently, my parents had a specific bar that they frequented.  I think it was Teddy Pike's Bar, but don't remember for certain.  My dad had a stool that he ALWAYS sat on.  It was an unwritten rule that it was D...

If there is one thing I've learned about life, it's that it never gets any easier.  Our little zoo got a little smaller two weeks ago.  My little lab/griffon mix, Bella, got incredibly sick and passed away at the tender age of 3.  We don't know the exact cause and I can't tell you how much I miss her. That girl could get into the most uncomfortable positions, and make them comfortable. Another thing that I've learned about life, is that no matter how much you don't want it to sometimes, that it always goes on.  Yesterday was our very first Awareness walk for Down Syndrome.  God, I was scared.  I didn't know what to expect!!  It was a little disorganized, but I learned a few lessons... Lesson #1.  I have one of the greatest friends in the entire world.  She has been there with me through everything - since Junior High School, and she didn't let me down here.  Her and her family made this walk so much easier, and I thank them...