Ethan's Song-by Chrisanne Wood:

My unexpected joy…my beautiful boy You’re a blessing to me And you’re just as you should be Though I feared the unknown, I knew you were my own You were special and you would be Just as you should be And there you were – a newborn angel! An expression of God’s joy So accepting, so trusting, a perfect child of God My beautiful boy! Your courage makes me see – it’s you who teaches me You’re so loving and free You’re just as you should be I never understood Love so simple and good You’re my sweet inspiration – anyone can see You’re just as you should be And there you are – you’re still my angel! An expression of God’s joy So accepting, so trusting, a perfect child of God My beautiful boy! And as you grow – you’ll be my angel! An expression of God’s joy So accepting, so trusting, a perfect child of God My beautiful boy! My beautiful boy…

Something I (Lori) posted on Facebook during DS Awareness Month:

Today's Sparkle-Sometimes I think Jamie's biggest problem is...me! I tend to make things too easy for her. I do things for her that I should be letting her do herself. I have been binge watching the latest season of Born This Way-about a group of young adults with Sparkle-and this season they have been really spreading their wings. 2 of the young ladies have moved in together, 2 of the young men are studying to get a drivers license, which is a difficult challenge for sure, 2 are planning their wedding, one is working at a coffee shop and she has really blossomed since the first season, 2 of them have their own businesses. It hit me that they are doing these things because they have been given the opportunities to try. Of course they have had a lot of support along the way, but my goodness, they have all risen to their challenges and succeeded! Every one of their parents has said that they never dreamed this was possible, they never envisioned that their kids would be able to do these things-most likely because that is what they were told by "experts"- BUT we never know what we can do until we try and it is the same for our kids. For too long our kids have been put on the shelf of low expectations. They are put in classrooms where the goal is to learn to fold towels, take out trash and wipe tables. I know what Jamie is capable of. I know she can achieve independence. Some of us parents have gotten together and are exploring future housing options, which is a bit scary, but totally necessary. I am not going to be here forever! I need to make sure I am providing meaningful opportunities for her to be independent, learn new things, be safe, and so much more. Parents, don't be afraid to dream big for your child. The journey will look different for all of us, but know this-your child IS capable, and you are amazing! Sparkle power!!