Welcome to my blog!  As this is very new to me, please pardon any mistakes I make or technical goofs that occur while I work through my computer ignorance and strive for blogger competence.

Why am I blogging?  Right now I have 3 HUGE reasons.

Number 1 – I have written a book about my past 29 years of parenting and being caregiver to my daughter, Amanda.  It is a brutally honest book as I talk about having a baby with spina bifida, all the surgeries she had, adding to our family, dealing with schools, doctors, therapists, family, and friends, the emotional roller coaster ride it’s been, and the way my faith helped carry this whole family through.  If you are a caregiver, parent of a handicapped child, or a person of faith wanting to read someone else’s story – my book is waiting for you to read!  I will give you updates as to my release date as it gets closer!

Number 2 – We have finally made the decision to move Amanda to her own apartment.  TERRIFYING!  This blog will give you updates (and struggles and stories and tears and cheers) as we go through that process.

Number 3 – Like most people with a history of a challenge and the absolute faith in God that gave me a story of growth and survival – I hope to share with you my talks with God and inspirations that seem to come my way. 

Please visit and read often for updates.  Feel free to comment and ask questions.

But for now,

just Laurel