Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Parenthood


(Headed to Ecuador to go get my girl!)

Today I thought I would talk about parenthood
And Down Syndrome.
I've only been a member of the club for two years
(well parenting a child with Down Syndrome)
So I really can't speak for everyone.
But I do have a few thoughts to share,
That might be applicable 
Whether  you have a child with Down syndrome
Or not.


(day 2 at Para Sus Ninos)

Being the parent of a child is as huge responsibility
One I don't take lightly.

(signing important adoption papers in Ecuador)

(a new family!)

But one thing I need to be reminded of 
time and time again
Is my need to take care of myself 
So that I can in return
Take care of the ones I love.




You know there are many sayings out there about motherhood,

(carolina park in Quito)

"If mama ain't happy ain't nobody happy." 

"The hand that rocks the cradle rocks the world." 

If I got paid salaries for all the jobs I do around here,
We'd be pretty well off.

But the thing is I don't.


(Easter 2011)

That doesn't diminish the importance of what I do though!
I am needed around here
And if I don't eat right, get plenty of sleep, exercise.
Well, it's not just me I am hurting.

I have this family that needs the things I bring to the table.
My daughter has Down syndrome.
My daughter is legally blind.
My daughter needs me to be around,
present
To be her advocate,
To be her teacher,
most of all
to be her mommy.



You know
The one that makes up silly songs,
 who is teaching her to read, and kisses her owies,
that knows her likes and dislikes
Wipes away her tears, and puts in her DVD of choice!!

No one, no matter how hard they try,
Will ever be able to fill that role in our child's life.

All you mommies out there....
You know who you are.
Please make that appointment.
Have your annual check ups.
Eat right, get plenty of rest,
Take some time to enjoy life- 
a book, friend, a hobby you enjoy!

(what Im knitting! You can see Ginnys Page for the directions for the hat.  Im knitting a sweater with the same lace and its own matching hat for a gift too!)
                                             

Do your Brest self-exams.
If not for yourself,
Do it for the ones that love you!



7 comments:

  1. What an exciting journey you are on! Good luck at the Emory Down Syndrome Clinic (they're awesome!) and thanks for the sweet comment on my blog :)

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    1. Meredith. Exciting to say the least. Will head back the first of the year. We haven't been patching as regular as I would have thought we would. It's hard when you have a child legally blind and you have to cover the good eye. She's been having colds/ allergies and it seems like kicking someone while they are down. Thank you for visiting!

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  2. Wooo...I've missed all of your posts this week! Very, very smart words, Anna. We *do* have to remember to take care of ourselves. I'm a horrible procrastinator, but need to be way more conscious of the doctor's appointments I've been overlooking. I absolutely think of Samantha when I do, and feel guilt. I know I need to be sure I'm healthy and around for her forever. Or for as long as possible. Thanks for this!

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    Replies
    1. Becca, this is the pot calling the kettle black! Something I have to remind myself and felt like other mamas needed to hear! Thanks for visiting us. Just getting the hang of replying to comments. A new tool I've added.

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  3. Lovely photos! Great post! Blessings, Jennifer

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    Replies
    1. Thank you Jennifer. You are doing a great job at your house! Keep up the good, hard work.

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