The kitchen table in Mikelle’s cozy condo hosts countless conversations. It’s where the Shining Beautiful team gathers, supporting each other through the chaos and adventures of everyday life. Each day, the table—and sometimes the coffee table—is laden with coffee mugs, a fresh breakfast or a plate of freshly baked chocolate croissants, and the weight of […]
Conversations Over Coffee: Navigating a Chaotic World Read More »
Doubt Nagging doubt and uncertainty have replaced my fear. Yet, I know I am not alone as I share a cup of coffee with the unknown. Four other women, all with adults who experience disabilities and have been living an inclusive life in their own homes, feel my trepidation about growing older. What will it
Part Two: What is Next? Read More »
We have so many things we want to share in our story. But, where to start? How will you know what is the real story? How do you find the story that makes a difference to you and the reader? Understand that a story is an invitation to enter into a dynamic relationship between: The Story. The
Following the Trail… in Search of a Good Story Read More »
Every day we learn to love more. We await what comes from an unpredictable day, daring myself to fall into an uncertain moment on the side of love, not fear. I dare myself to step into the vulnerabilities of an open heart. It takes courage to open a heart broken not once, but many times.
Taking Time to Love Read More »
As I enter our home, it is warm and bathed in soft light. I take off my coat and hang it on the hook near the door as I reflect on life in its present incarnation. I thought living with my daughter would either be intense, even feverish, in my attempts to help her find
Life with Mikelle: Balancing our Special Needs Read More »
Reluctant eagerness. Yes, those two words capture my dilemma each time I take a break from being a “special needs mom” and caregiver—if there is such a thing. Respite is good for both of us. On one hand, I am eager to leap out of my routine. Since, Mikelle graduated from high school, I have
Everyone Needs a Break–The Importance of Respite Read More »
For years, now, I have been focused on how the availability of appropriate technology and its use by people with disabilities can impact the lives of those individuals. It has become increasing clear over time that gaining access to universal and assistive technology for individuals with disabilities is essential and critical in supporting their lives,
Families at the Forefront of Technology Read More »
Are You the Employer of Choice? Part 1 Hiring and Managing Caregivers and Personal Support The particulars are hard to pin down and usually open to debate, but with absolute certainty, people with disabilities and their families want more choice, power and control in their lives. The explosive growth of person-centered planning and consumer-directed
Are You an Employer of Choice? Hiring and Training Personal Support and Caregivers. Read More »
For quite some time, I have been wondering like many of you just how we can jump start supported employment for people with disabilities. Some states have more job placements than others but search for jobs with more hours and financial reward for the supported employee. Other states find their efforts languishing on a
Planting the Seeds of Success in Supported Employment Read More »
Guest Blog Post by Katie Grange February is the month of love. Can a single special needs mom find love? Katie and I have shared many cups of coffee talking about this important aspect of life. Her story is riveting. I know her story will capture your heart and inspire you to believe
Love, Disability and Single Parenting, Part Two Read More »
