New Year, Starting Fresh

First, I have to say that this was a great year for us in many ways, and a very hard year in many others.  The good news:  another year without a hospitalization, and another year without Caroline being asked to leave a school, she played lacrosse all summer, and our oldest got into the college of her choice, for which the GI Bill will pay the majority of the cost.  These are great things to celebrate, truly.

On the downside, my husband hasn't worked since July, we are in a very financially precarious position,  Caroline didn't have a stellar fall semester in terms of grades, still doesn't have any girlfriends, and our health insurance ends March 26th.

If we weighed all things in the balance, I would say we are still very blessed and hanging in there, with the arms of God holding us.  He always has the last say.  Circumstances may confound us, but God is big, and God is good, and He keeps His promises to sustain His children.  As the psalmist says, "I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread." Psalm 37:25   We are so grateful for His never ending love and kindness to us.

I know many of you out there are struggling with an unstable child, unemployment, poor health insurance, or none at all, grandparents who blame you, and a school system that isn't giving your child what they need.  I pray that you will find this year to be a better one, one of finally finding the meds that work, the school that cares, a family who grasps that you are not bad parents, but great parents with huge challenges, and job situations that pay the bills and provide good health insurance.  Thank you for all of your comments, for supporting CABF in the Pepsi grant contest, which we think we have won, and for just letting me know you are out there.  I love you all and treasure our camaraderie.

Don't stop advocating for your child, don't stop seeking the best docs, the right medications.  You are not alone, and perseverance does pay off in the end! Take time for yourself in the battle, and try to get time away from your kid(s).  They need you to be refreshed too, and make time for your spouse because you need each other!  A strong marriage will make a huge difference in your parenting.  If you can, seek counseling for your marriage so that you have a rock solid foundation, go on a retreat together, and ask for the financial help to do these things if you need to!!!

God bless you and give you a peaceful New Year!  Megan