Best Special Olympics Ever

Brandon had Special Olympics basketball today in San Marcos.  Brandon has been participating in Special Olympics since he was in middle school.  He loves it because he always wins.  So do all the kids.  It is not often that Brandon has people cheering for him, paying attention to him and doing something athletic.  So whatever the sport is, Brandon will participate.  He loves it. 

I love Special Olympics because Brandon loves Special Olympics.  But I also love that Brandon gets exercise and socialization, two things he does not get enough of.  Today was another Special Olympics event.  Special Olympics is run mainly by volunteers.  For the parents it can be a little frustrating because often the events run very far behind, the weather can be unpredictable, and sometimes they are very unorganized.  As a former manager that drives me crazy.  Last year Brandon's track meet lasted for 6 hours and he only had two events.  But like most parents, I cant complain because again - Brandon loves this. 

I have to give credit today to HEB, Special Olympics staff and the coaches.  Brandon was told to be at the event at 10:45.  There was a wreck on the way to the event and we were a little late.  To my surprise they were running ahead.  So we walked into the event.  Within 5 minutes Brandon was doing his three events and we were out of the gym within 30 minutes.  Plenty of time for the outlet mall. 

Brandon earned a gold medal (he was the only one in his category but don't tell him).  I was real happy that it was a short 30 minutes, very organized, and the HEB volunteers made all the athlete's feel great.  And the best - Brandon was very happy.  You know he loves Special Olympics.  So really a great day. 

On to track.

Later Leah

Single Mom and Small Family

I have to say sometimes it really sucks to be a single mom from a small family.  Today and many other days like today can be challenging.  Last night Brandon started having some sniffles and a little chest congestion.  I tried to think it was just allergies, but I finally relented and took Brandon's temperature and sure enough it is a full blown cold.  Not a horrible one, just bad enough that he should not go to school and he needs someone pumping medicine down him to make sure he does not get worse.  For 18 years I have been juggling those times when Brandon is sick, trying to find someone to care for him while I still work, and making sure that person knows how to care for Brandon.  It is really a challenge.  Most kids at 18 can stay home by themselves but when Brandon is sick it is even more important to have someone stay with him. 

This week at work is the worst with the legislative session active, executives coming into town and lots of meetings I set up.  So there is no way for me to take off work.  I started calling everyone that could possibly take care of him at least for some part of the day or 1 day.  My brother had to go to work, some people could do some of the day, but there were gaps.  I was starting to panic. 

This brought back memories of a day a many years ago when I had a "gig" on a Saturday night at a place by the lake.  Yes, I was originally a musician who for a while tried to live off musician wages.  Brandon was little - around 4.  I didn't have anyone to stay with him that day and I called everyone I could think of.  In the end, I brought Brandon to the gig and he sat on my foot pedal for most of the gig until someone in the audience I knew convinced him to sit with him.  It was a very stressful night. 

So back to today - I called a friend of mine that lives near here and she came up with a retired teacher that lives nearby.  However, we could not find her number.  She drove over to her house and now I have her coming over tomorrow to stay with Brandon.  I really owe one to my friend for going the extra mile. 

I know it is still challenging with a husband and siblings, nieces and nephews, but it is times like these that I wished I was from a large family.  I am not ever sure if Brandon can be left alone for long periods of time, so as Brandon finishes school and has more time at home this will become even a larger issue. 

I am probably feeling even more stressed than usual because at the same time I am trying to find care for my son, my 89 yr old mom moved into the Alzheimer's unit in assistant living.  My brother and I have been spending alot of time hoping this transition will work.  Her memory has really diminished and it was a tough decision to move her.  Jim and I are a little worn out right now.  She became sick about 2 months ago, went to the hospital from her assistant living facility, then to skilled nursing.  At that point she did not remember the assistant living apartment and our options were not great. 

I am blessed to have a large network of friends that support Brandon and me.  Thanks to all of you who worked through this with me today.  Now, just hope Brandon is well by Tuesday. 
Leah