Our Village: Being D's Mom Part 2

This was a long time coming, but better late than never.

It's not easy raising a child.

It's not easy raising a child on your own.

It's not easy raising a child that has challenges that he and you cannot control.

On May 30, 2019 Daniel graduated from high school.

It was not an easy road.

It did not come without obstacles,

but it did happen.

We did not get here on our own,

we were, are, blessed with a strong, loving, and patient village.

Yes, I made him hold a sign on the last day of school...

In the parking lot of ELAC before the big moment!

Part of the incredible village that supported us for the past 14 years.

 Aunt Lisa who took the photo above and my sounding board for 14 years.

She has raised 3 incredible adults and has more patience than I could ever have.

Our village at work, home, school, and a phone call away...  supporting, listening, advising, 

people who move furniture, pick up Daniel when I had to be at two places at once, gave advice, lended a supportive ear, understood...

those who cared for Daniel when he was sick and I had to go to work, watched him when I had to be at school on the weekends or at a PD, and gave me advice when I didn't know what to do...

big brothers, big sisters, aunts, and uncles near and far who have impacted our lives with their presence and love...

 friends from the beginning, that understand who you are, and stick with you no matter what...

those that took care of you at school and pushed you to do more than you wanted to do, teachers and mentors that are like family, and neighbors who let you stay with them when you are locked out and give you spare keys no matter how many times you lose your own set...

middle school educators that changed your outlook about school, life, possibilities, and accepted you for the kind of learner you are...

elementary teachers that looked after you, took care of you, believed in you, and taught you to be a better person...

friends that were there from day one and provided you with bright, play clothes, uniform pants that fit, and big brother advice...

Friends and students that have been a part of my village before you came into my life  and continues to love and care for us...

I wish I had the time to recognize and snap a photo of each and everyone who came to celebrate such a milestone in Daniel's life. Whether you were there or not, you know who you are and how much you each mean to me (and Daniel). Each of you have played a part in raising this young man and teaching his mother how to be a better parent. Thank you for loving and caring about us. We are both grateful and blessed you are here.

Wished you were there Popo...