Jumping Ahead for A Moment

I think one of the best things that has been happening lately is the involvement we have been able to offer Sharon in NISRA (Northern Illinois Special Recreation District).

There is a marked change in Sharon's personality when we come close to time for her to participate in a program through NISRA. She gets a little antsy. In a good way. She gets a little more chatty. In a good way. Her eyes light up. She actually smiles and laughs a little bit more. Almost childlike her face looks as we approach the time for her to "be with my friends."

NISRA can be a little pricey for our budget (well, Sharon's budget), but it is worth it because until we find a job for her (working on it), this is her only socialization outside of our home.

Speaking of that...I can't even tell you how important these times have been for us as a family as well. There is a whole different dynamic in our tiny home now. It's not horrible or anything, but it is different and we still haven't completely found our swing on this topic. So when Sharon goes to NISRA, not only is this a chance for her to have fund with people like her, but it gives us as a family to have some respite as well. It's a chance for my husband and I to give our daughter some dedicated time (cuz trust me, Sharon has had plenty of my dedicated time...just maybe not time that has been altogether fun).

The respite has been a breath of fresh air. Our daughter really likes have Aunt Sharon around, but for my husband and I it has added an element of stress that we can forget for a little bit while she is out having some fun and being carefree. For this, I am more than grateful...not just for NISRA, but for the opportunity for Sharon to experience some independence, make new friends...be free.