Luke wanted to sign up for football this year. It's overwhelming and it's only been the first conditioning/practice week. 10 hours logged including a team picnic and gear pick up event. Luke is loving every minute of it.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Football!
Luke wanted to sign up for football this year. It's overwhelming and it's only been the first conditioning/practice week. 10 hours logged including a team picnic and gear pick up event. Luke is loving every minute of it.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Special Needs Labels
I don't often say Mitchell is or has "special needs". It doesn't flow naturally from my tongue. A doctor once said, "He has special health needs" and I liked that much better. But being cynical, Mitchell doesn't have special needs, he requires TOTAL or COMPLETE needs to be taken care of! So you can see I'm often stumped at how to describe my son.
A mom who writes about her son's "special powers" and family experiences relating to his Cerebral Palsy echos this dilemma. She blogged:
“Special needs” just doesn’t sound cool, although out of all the terms, I tend to use it a lot because it’s the most recognized term. “Differently-abled” is cooler but harder to explain and I don’t always want to explain. “Disabled” emphasizes negativity, and “handicapped” just seems outdated to me.
I know, I know: Why are labels necessary? Sometimes, they just are. I don’t always want to say “Max has cerebral palsy”—vague terminology comes in handy for forms, special accommodations at places, nosy people.
I know it doesn't work for her, but I wind up using "disabled" the most when describing Mitchell. His inabilities are major. In specialist's terms, he's severely impaired. Saying he's disabled conveys he is not able. I might go on to say, he doesn't walk or talk and uses a wheelchair. Disabled also better focuses on his physical limitations, rather than his behavioral. Generally he's a pretty content little guy.
Speaking of Mitchell's behavior and personality, that's tough to describe too. It's hard to describe characteristics too specifically when there are no verbal and few movement cues as to who he is, but I've nailed that one when I say Mitchell is sweet, lovable and has a gentle spirit. I know those things are true!
I've found I'm most adamant when it comes to talking about visual impairment. Notice I did not say "blind". I have learned there are so many degrees of impairment, it's often incorrect to call someone fully blind. Mitchell has some peripheral vision although he can't process what he sees very well so I say he is visually impaired. I never shortcut when relating he receives vision therapy from the Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
I admit some of this is ego. It is very hard for me to accept or internalize my son being blind. I can't explain it. I've always been funny about sight though, very thankful for not needing glasses myself. I've boasted the only thing perfect about me physically is my eyesight!
I am still working through letting go of comments strangers make about Mitchell being tired when his eyes are half-mast, usually replying about his remarkably long and beautiful eyelashes. But it always seems to get a rise in me. I want to quip, "He can't see." That would only make them feel bad so I keep mum. Again, I'm working on it.
So if we must label, what works for me is to say Mitchell is disabled and visually impaired. But know other families likely feel differently so in my opinion it doesn't hurt to ask their preference.
A mom who writes about her son's "special powers" and family experiences relating to his Cerebral Palsy echos this dilemma. She blogged:
“Special needs” just doesn’t sound cool, although out of all the terms, I tend to use it a lot because it’s the most recognized term. “Differently-abled” is cooler but harder to explain and I don’t always want to explain. “Disabled” emphasizes negativity, and “handicapped” just seems outdated to me.
I know, I know: Why are labels necessary? Sometimes, they just are. I don’t always want to say “Max has cerebral palsy”—vague terminology comes in handy for forms, special accommodations at places, nosy people.
I know it doesn't work for her, but I wind up using "disabled" the most when describing Mitchell. His inabilities are major. In specialist's terms, he's severely impaired. Saying he's disabled conveys he is not able. I might go on to say, he doesn't walk or talk and uses a wheelchair. Disabled also better focuses on his physical limitations, rather than his behavioral. Generally he's a pretty content little guy.
Speaking of Mitchell's behavior and personality, that's tough to describe too. It's hard to describe characteristics too specifically when there are no verbal and few movement cues as to who he is, but I've nailed that one when I say Mitchell is sweet, lovable and has a gentle spirit. I know those things are true!
I've found I'm most adamant when it comes to talking about visual impairment. Notice I did not say "blind". I have learned there are so many degrees of impairment, it's often incorrect to call someone fully blind. Mitchell has some peripheral vision although he can't process what he sees very well so I say he is visually impaired. I never shortcut when relating he receives vision therapy from the Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
I admit some of this is ego. It is very hard for me to accept or internalize my son being blind. I can't explain it. I've always been funny about sight though, very thankful for not needing glasses myself. I've boasted the only thing perfect about me physically is my eyesight!
I am still working through letting go of comments strangers make about Mitchell being tired when his eyes are half-mast, usually replying about his remarkably long and beautiful eyelashes. But it always seems to get a rise in me. I want to quip, "He can't see." That would only make them feel bad so I keep mum. Again, I'm working on it.
So if we must label, what works for me is to say Mitchell is disabled and visually impaired. But know other families likely feel differently so in my opinion it doesn't hurt to ask their preference.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
19 Years and Still Going Strong
I try very hard not to bring work over to my personal blog. But I think my 19th year anniversary with the company is reason to give my company, Paycor, a little shout out. Plus I don't share this blog publicly.
19 years is a long time to be at a company these days. Over that history I've been lucky to lead and perform many different functions from sales and marketing to operations and IT/product development. In 1992 when I started I was the 11th employee - number 22, my lucky number. I have the 5th most tenure in the company with headcount today around 600 across 20 U.S. cities. Things change at Paycor regularly, but the reasons I'm still there are: I'm challenged, I'm listened to and the company demonstrates genuine commitment to its guiding principles that align with my own values.
One of the most fun things I get to do is help organize an annual event purposed to kick off our selling year (July - June). All the salespeople and client services leaders spend a couple days in training, but on one of the nights we have a huge recognition event followed by an after party. This year's event was held this week. The overall theme for the event was "X-factor" taking a cue from the likes of American Idol and Simon Cowell's new upcoming show with the same title. When attendees arrived we made them feel like stars walking them through a red carpet line then took their pictures in front of a "step and repeat" logoed backdrop. We hired my favorite local band, the Rusty Griswalds, to play. Of course everyone loved them - they are the best 80's cover band! (Many of my friends recall this being sort of my house band as Chris hired them to play at my 40th birthday party! Fun!)
The lead singer's company just became a Paycor client. He cited a video I helped make as one of the reasons. This was done for last year's company kick off event when our theme was "Drive" - it was inspired by the viral video Toyota created for their Sienna Minivan called "Swagger Wagon". I'm sharing this because I'm very proud Paycor submitted this video for an award and we beat out the likes of the very cool design firm X-plane and American Express! More on that here: http://www.paycor.com/payrollin
(be sure to stop the music player first)
Oh yeah, I hope you noted my title credit..."Executive Producer". When we won I shared the video with my mom by email. She replied, "I love the video. What exactly does and executive producer do?" What a funny mom line!
One more thing work-related to share. I'm scheduled to speak at this year's Bold Fusion event in Cincinnati targeted at more than 400 young professionals. I'm on a panel talking about creativity on demand and in a more traditional financial services workplace. The half day event is being led off by creativity-guru and friend, Todd Henry who just had his first book released! Impressive. I encourage you to purchase this book. I've had Todd speak to my fellow executives at Paycor and at our client conference - his insights never disappoint!
The Accidental Creative: How To Be Brilliant at a Moment's Notice from Accidental Creative on Vimeo.
I am going to have an opportunity to speak on work matters more at a blog being created at Paycor.com. Thanks for letting me indulge here for a change!
19 years is a long time to be at a company these days. Over that history I've been lucky to lead and perform many different functions from sales and marketing to operations and IT/product development. In 1992 when I started I was the 11th employee - number 22, my lucky number. I have the 5th most tenure in the company with headcount today around 600 across 20 U.S. cities. Things change at Paycor regularly, but the reasons I'm still there are: I'm challenged, I'm listened to and the company demonstrates genuine commitment to its guiding principles that align with my own values.
One of the most fun things I get to do is help organize an annual event purposed to kick off our selling year (July - June). All the salespeople and client services leaders spend a couple days in training, but on one of the nights we have a huge recognition event followed by an after party. This year's event was held this week. The overall theme for the event was "X-factor" taking a cue from the likes of American Idol and Simon Cowell's new upcoming show with the same title. When attendees arrived we made them feel like stars walking them through a red carpet line then took their pictures in front of a "step and repeat" logoed backdrop. We hired my favorite local band, the Rusty Griswalds, to play. Of course everyone loved them - they are the best 80's cover band! (Many of my friends recall this being sort of my house band as Chris hired them to play at my 40th birthday party! Fun!)
The lead singer's company just became a Paycor client. He cited a video I helped make as one of the reasons. This was done for last year's company kick off event when our theme was "Drive" - it was inspired by the viral video Toyota created for their Sienna Minivan called "Swagger Wagon". I'm sharing this because I'm very proud Paycor submitted this video for an award and we beat out the likes of the very cool design firm X-plane and American Express! More on that here: http://www.paycor.com/payrollin
(be sure to stop the music player first)
Oh yeah, I hope you noted my title credit..."Executive Producer". When we won I shared the video with my mom by email. She replied, "I love the video. What exactly does and executive producer do?" What a funny mom line!
One more thing work-related to share. I'm scheduled to speak at this year's Bold Fusion event in Cincinnati targeted at more than 400 young professionals. I'm on a panel talking about creativity on demand and in a more traditional financial services workplace. The half day event is being led off by creativity-guru and friend, Todd Henry who just had his first book released! Impressive. I encourage you to purchase this book. I've had Todd speak to my fellow executives at Paycor and at our client conference - his insights never disappoint!
The Accidental Creative: How To Be Brilliant at a Moment's Notice from Accidental Creative on Vimeo.
I am going to have an opportunity to speak on work matters more at a blog being created at Paycor.com. Thanks for letting me indulge here for a change!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Aging
I have been thinking about aging lately. No, I'm not happy about aging.
Maybe my perspective is skewed because I'm kind of an older mamma. Many of my friends my age have tweens by now.
Maybe it's because my skin while zit free compared to my younger days, seems wrinkly and temperamental. Rosacea runs in my family - at least Chris understands, he has it too!
Maybe it's because I wish my physical appearance was improved. I just can't figure out how to dedicate time to regularly exercise. Maybe focusing on age might be a distraction from my inability of late to figure out work/life balance.
Maybe being around younger workers more who scream freedom though still lament life's circumstances makes me feel older. I could tell them something about life's circumstances. Of course I would never do so, but is it bad it crosses my mind from time to time?
An oh yeah, I'm tired.
If my own age-obsession is not enough, I'm completely aware of how fast it seems Luke is growing up. 1st grade for crying out loud. No longer wants or needs me to lay with him a bit before going to sleep. Of course it's great he's more independent, but it seems like his being embarrassed of me at some school event is just around the corner.
Then there is Mitchell who gets older, yet stays the same. That's not right either.
Oh who knows? Am I alone in this?
"To keep the heart unwrinkled, to be hopeful, kindly, cheerful, reverent--that is to triumph over old age."
-- Thomas Bailey Aldrich
I do like the picture of keeping my "heart unwrinkled." I think I have been centered on that without realizing it. I let so much more go than I used to.
Other words of wisdom on aging:
"There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age."
–Sophia Loren
"Those who love deeply never grow old; they may die of old age, but they die young."
--Ben Franklin
"Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."
-- Mark Twain
"Old age is no place for sissies."
-- Bette Davis
Gray hair is a glorious crown; it is found in the way of righteousness”
--Proverbs 16:31
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Mitchell and me his second day. A snuggler then just like today.
Maybe my perspective is skewed because I'm kind of an older mamma. Many of my friends my age have tweens by now.
Maybe it's because my skin while zit free compared to my younger days, seems wrinkly and temperamental. Rosacea runs in my family - at least Chris understands, he has it too!
Maybe it's because I wish my physical appearance was improved. I just can't figure out how to dedicate time to regularly exercise. Maybe focusing on age might be a distraction from my inability of late to figure out work/life balance.
Maybe being around younger workers more who scream freedom though still lament life's circumstances makes me feel older. I could tell them something about life's circumstances. Of course I would never do so, but is it bad it crosses my mind from time to time?
An oh yeah, I'm tired.
If my own age-obsession is not enough, I'm completely aware of how fast it seems Luke is growing up. 1st grade for crying out loud. No longer wants or needs me to lay with him a bit before going to sleep. Of course it's great he's more independent, but it seems like his being embarrassed of me at some school event is just around the corner.
Then there is Mitchell who gets older, yet stays the same. That's not right either.
Oh who knows? Am I alone in this?
"To keep the heart unwrinkled, to be hopeful, kindly, cheerful, reverent--that is to triumph over old age."
-- Thomas Bailey Aldrich
I do like the picture of keeping my "heart unwrinkled." I think I have been centered on that without realizing it. I let so much more go than I used to.
Other words of wisdom on aging:
"There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age."
–Sophia Loren
"Those who love deeply never grow old; they may die of old age, but they die young."
--Ben Franklin
"Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."
-- Mark Twain
"Old age is no place for sissies."
-- Bette Davis
Gray hair is a glorious crown; it is found in the way of righteousness”
--Proverbs 16:31
Luke and I at the beginning, leaving the hospital on August 25, 2005 having watched a lot of hours of Hurricane Katrina coverage.
Mitchell and me his second day. A snuggler then just like today.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Got a letter from my uncle Darrell who recently visited. It had a meaningful intensity about it and it touched me.
"Dear Stacey,
I just want you to now that I think of Mitchell often. Enclosed you will find his name on our church prayer list and it will remain there for as long as I live. Give my new friend Luke a big kiss and backward hug. Tell Mitchell I love him and give him a big kiss and hug. Love you all!!!
Uncle Darrell"
"Dear Stacey,
I just want you to now that I think of Mitchell often. Enclosed you will find his name on our church prayer list and it will remain there for as long as I live. Give my new friend Luke a big kiss and backward hug. Tell Mitchell I love him and give him a big kiss and hug. Love you all!!!
Uncle Darrell"
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Stadiums + Mega Churches
We noted some counts over vacation. Specifically how many states, how many major league ball fields and how many mega churches we've each been to. Yes I said mega churches.
Chris won the baseball stadium race hands down. It was his 2nd time to Wrigley but he said this time was better because we had better seats. I loved how the field was so low-tech with one of the 2 oldest scoreboards in play, minimal screens and ads. When built in 1914 it took $250,000 and 6 weeks to complete. The ivy was nice too.
When we found ourselves at Willow Creek church Sunday morning, the well-known teaching church with Bill Hybels at the helm, I realized I've hit some biggies including Saddleback (Rick Warren) in California, http://www.northpoint.org/ in Atlanta (Andy Stanley). I think the businessperson is me is drawn to the missions of these churches, but also how well they are led, operated and overall infrastructured.
At the service we went to we were surprised with a concert from the notable David Crowder Band from Texas who is currently on their final tour before the musicians disband permanently. Crazy to see young and old alike rocking it out to loud and lively Christian music so early. Pretty cool.
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It should be noted Willow Creek was also conveniently located 5 miles from the Lego Discovery Center Luke couldn't wait to go to!
Chris won the baseball stadium race hands down. It was his 2nd time to Wrigley but he said this time was better because we had better seats. I loved how the field was so low-tech with one of the 2 oldest scoreboards in play, minimal screens and ads. When built in 1914 it took $250,000 and 6 weeks to complete. The ivy was nice too.
When we found ourselves at Willow Creek church Sunday morning, the well-known teaching church with Bill Hybels at the helm, I realized I've hit some biggies including Saddleback (Rick Warren) in California, http://www.northpoint.org/ in Atlanta (Andy Stanley). I think the businessperson is me is drawn to the missions of these churches, but also how well they are led, operated and overall infrastructured.
At the service we went to we were surprised with a concert from the notable David Crowder Band from Texas who is currently on their final tour before the musicians disband permanently. Crazy to see young and old alike rocking it out to loud and lively Christian music so early. Pretty cool.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Chicago Vacation 2011
I know, I know...haven't been posting. I've been working on my summer to-do list. That has included taking our annual trip without Mitchell. This year, we went to Chicago and a wonderful time.
It's so hard to list everything we did...we nearly did it all. From museums, a Cubs/White Sox game and the beach to the Taste of Chicago, an upscale steak dinner and 2 boat rides, we found the city so kid friendly. But a handicapped-friendly city? Not at all. You take buses, trains and taxis. And one minute you are walking on a street and next thing you know you are on a lower level with a street above you requiring you to take stairs to get back to where you thought you were. When we are on our respite trip, we actually seek out a more complicated environment so we can do things we usually cannot. For us, it was perfect.
Hopefully these picture collages give you an idea of our experience, not to mention the fun I'm having with my newest camera lens purchase!
By the way, she is even prettier in person:
The ominous sky as we drove into town. It cleared up beautifully, only to bring in 90+ degree heat. Then while at the baseball game, the temps dropped to the 70's in under an hour. Best of all, no rain to speak of!
There were a couple times on the trip sadness hit me. I saw 2 boys close in age conversing with their parents at breakfast. How I wished that was my two. At a park I was behind a dad starting a running race on the sidewalk with his two boys, again close in age. How I wished my two could run alongside their daddy.
These moments are fleeting. Actually I surprise myself all the time how quickly I bounce back from these flashes of what could be. Our normal is different and I have accepted it. How lucky we are to be able to take a break and recharge to keep going.
We had such an enjoyable time full of freedom and late nights, we could have stayed longer, but we wanted to get home to see Mitchell too. When I swept him into my arms, there was not a flicker of recognition. But when Chris, Luke and I rolled around with Mitchell on the floor getting him to smile, I knew we were home.
It's so hard to list everything we did...we nearly did it all. From museums, a Cubs/White Sox game and the beach to the Taste of Chicago, an upscale steak dinner and 2 boat rides, we found the city so kid friendly. But a handicapped-friendly city? Not at all. You take buses, trains and taxis. And one minute you are walking on a street and next thing you know you are on a lower level with a street above you requiring you to take stairs to get back to where you thought you were. When we are on our respite trip, we actually seek out a more complicated environment so we can do things we usually cannot. For us, it was perfect.
Hopefully these picture collages give you an idea of our experience, not to mention the fun I'm having with my newest camera lens purchase!
By the way, she is even prettier in person:
The ominous sky as we drove into town. It cleared up beautifully, only to bring in 90+ degree heat. Then while at the baseball game, the temps dropped to the 70's in under an hour. Best of all, no rain to speak of!
There were a couple times on the trip sadness hit me. I saw 2 boys close in age conversing with their parents at breakfast. How I wished that was my two. At a park I was behind a dad starting a running race on the sidewalk with his two boys, again close in age. How I wished my two could run alongside their daddy.
These moments are fleeting. Actually I surprise myself all the time how quickly I bounce back from these flashes of what could be. Our normal is different and I have accepted it. How lucky we are to be able to take a break and recharge to keep going.
We had such an enjoyable time full of freedom and late nights, we could have stayed longer, but we wanted to get home to see Mitchell too. When I swept him into my arms, there was not a flicker of recognition. But when Chris, Luke and I rolled around with Mitchell on the floor getting him to smile, I knew we were home.
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