Growing up third in line of four children I was able to have the experience of being a younger sister as well as a "big sis". I grew up really close to my younger brother who was 2 years younger and just as big as me. Everyone used to mistaken us for twins. For as long as I can remember I loved being around people, and if anyone knew me as a child, he knew if one could not find me, one could find the closest baby or younger child than I, and there I would be. I have loved my life experiences with babysitting starting when I was in third grade all through my life. Now I get to enjoy my life not just being a babysitter but a mommy of 4 beautiful, bright, and loving children. Above in the family photo my oldest Kielice (pronounce Ki lees), about turn 13 in September. I had her when I was 19 years old. Being a young mother I had to learn juggling college and baby. Four years later my son was born, Gabriel, soon to be 9 years old in December. Not 18 months later my "baby girl" was born, Abigail, just turned 7 this May. Now to complete the ensemble we have Kail, aka "Angel". Kail turned 2 years old this past April. He has sealed the pack with his love, humor, and playful personality. Kail loves each and everyone of his siblings uniquely as they do him.
Kail was diagnosed with Right Frontal Cortical Dysplasia, Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy when he was about 16 months old. I never thought I would be one to consider myself a mother of a disabled child, but I am. It has been the greatest blessing in disguise as "Angel" has brought people together that never would have met before, and he being the angel he is has touched and will continue to touch those whom he comes in contact with. There are still struggles, but with the help of his doctors, therapists, friends, and especially family Kail can overcome anything. Angel has changed my perspective of the universe for the better. Life happens, sometimes not so great and nice things happen, but everyone has the choice to make the heavens proud or lie in the dust. "Angel" decided to make the heavens smile with every step, every goal accomplished, and every person he loves. I am so proud of his accomplishments and his care free, happy, loving disposition on life. He is my angel along with his Gammy's Angel.
Karen and Gary Smothers, though not blood related, have been the sweetest gifts that came out of having Kail. I met them at church, and ever since that memorable Sunday, we have been family. Not all families come by birth, but by love. The love they have shown me and my children has taught me that family does not always mean blood-relative. I do not know where I would be or what my life would look like without them.
In the midst of the hustle, I love most spending time with my family, extended family, and friends. My children and I love being outside and having fun at the pool. I have two teacup dogs, Daisy Mae a Morkie (Maltese and Yorkie), and Blondie a Chihuahua. Daisy being only 3lbs and Blondie 6 lbs full grown it will always feel like we have puppies around.
I grew up always loving Math. But because of a very special teacher I became a teacher. Having the debate as most middle schoolers do between careers, mine were Teacher or Lawyer. Once my teacher Mrs. Glaser heard that, she was on point to help me decide. With the first time ever being in front of a group of students in 8th grade I had the chance to teach 7th graders their divisibility rules, a lesson I just heard her teach the day before. Mrs. Glaser was right there to support me, but the adrenaline rush I got from the very first time teaching had me hooked. I am so thankful I had special teachers in my life to help guide me and help me make my choice of a lifetime. I can only wish one day to live up to what Mrs. Glaser accomplished. I still talk and hear from her today. Though we are miles apart, she still is one of the most influential, memorable parts of my life.
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