First post of 2020

 Welcome Back Everyone~

Wow, it’s hard to believe this is my first post of the year 2020; honestly, I had planned to post before this posting or YouTubing views of my apartment downstairs. Obviously, it’s not in the cards right now. Despite all this uncertainty, was determined to make this year of dreams; to further my cause, I have joined Bethany Hamilton’s Unstoppable Year online course. Each month of the year focuses on a different topic; -for example January focused on being present and not becoming bogged down with things on social media. She not only shares her opinion on each topic, but opens up the conversation to friends of hers that have experience of some kind with this..

I’ll be honest, I’m only on the third month because I t have been busy and distracted by other things (which I will go into later on.) Hopefully things will slow down and I will be able catch up... But this online course is pretty much self-paced and you can watch the videos at your own leisure (rewatch them even.) Depending on how you choose to pay, each course will be available in month after you pay the first month of $9.99- or 1-time payment of $99 for the whole year.

And as many of you know, I have been wanting to add a puppy to my family for a long time now. Well, it is finally happening. I know we had wanted her to come after the basement was built, but I just couldn't wait. I mean I've been waiting 20 years already. So I put a deposit down in faith for a litter in Virginia Beach. The litter didn't end up happening and I was offered a pick in the next group of puppies. After my mom opened up about her concern about puppy size, we did some more research and came upon Gorgeous Goldendoddles. Not only did the fact they had medium size puppies available do it for us , But they also shared their faith on the website.As a result, we proceeded with them and recently went down to see the puppies in person. They were all so cute; it was hard to make a decision. In the end, here were my top three picks

Aspen Holly and Noelle (from left to right)

I liked Aspen because of its unique white socks and Noelle because of her bright blonde color. In the end, Holly's name just stuck with me (I really don't know why) but she seemed the most calm of the bunch .Anyway, barring any complications at the vet today, she will be ours February 12.I still can't believe it; I guess I'm still in shock that it's actually happening . I know the puppy months will be tough but I will get a long-term friend this; we also hope to train her to do some assistance dog skills as well.

As if that's not enough, I have also been trying to finish my Christian section book and get it ready for a literary agent . Please pray that I remain focused amidst our new family member and remember I am representing

All Moved In

Dear readers~

It’s hard to believe it’s literally been a month since my last post on here; it feels like so much longer. But we did it- in a matter of weeks, we packed all our stuff and moved to another county. It feels so much longer though when you are living through it. But we made it. We’ve had our share of difficulties during the first few days. For example, I had to get around the house for the first week or so. Mind you, the owner said he would have one of his builders as soon as possible. I’m usually patient and understanding- after all, other stuff had to be finished before everything was finalized; but for those that have spent time in old wheelchairs, you get me... (Your body is squashed into a seat that no longer fits your stature and you feel short; for a couple of days, it’s okay. But a week is pushing it). After waiting a couple of days, my mom and dad were able to make a makeshift ramp and get my regular one in here. It didn’t help matters that the batteries in my chair aren’t holding power like they should. But they were able to get it up here safely.

          Stuck in the house a few days after this, the carpenter came along and I was finally able to get outside. I will say the ramp is nice and well worth the wait. We wait anxiously for our driveway to be paved on Monday and then my basement apartment to begin soon after. We continue to work with the homebuilder as we feel he has gone above and beyond in trying to work with us- price wise and accessibility wise.

          In the meantime, I am getting used to my temporary digs (formerly known as the family room). Except for the fact I am occasionally awoken by light streaming through the top of my windows, it’s nice^ I have my primary electronics up and running (my Amazon devices, Comcast TV and harmony hub). For a while, I didn’t miss a beat getting back into my writing routine. But now I’m stuck again. Anyway, it’s quite easy just driving out for family dinners at the kitchen table.

          Stress and close quarters continue to remain a factor as we are still in a state of transition and decisions still, need to be made (granted these are the fun ones- color and style of my basement area. But I continue to try and remain focused on my faith in this time as I can’t help but feel lonely and disconnected. I can’t quite explain it myself- everything happening in my life is good but something is still missing. Anyway, I’m staying close to God in this time holding onto Girl Defined Crossword for TRUST:

T-Turn your eyes upon him

R-Remember what He has done

U-Uplift

S-Surrender (give your cares to Jesus)

T-Be thankful

Philadelphia adventures; moving chaos

Dear Readers,

I can’t believe it’s been a month since I’ve written on this blog and more since I’ve updated my YouTube channel. Actually I can. But to me, time seems to be going extremely slowly. Let me explain. After I returned from the Christian Writers conference in Philadelphia, I was ecstatic and on fire to finish my book. I'd spend my days writing nonstop-rarely stopping to read or update my Facebook. Believe me, that’s quite a feat considering I have a tendency to write on it at leastI did once a day. It’s a wonder, my friends didn’t private message me about my whereabouts. But now you know. I’m trying to remember whether I updated you guys as to my project.

In short, they liked my idea of having a disabled character center stage and thought I could give it a unique voice, considering my situation. They just encouraged me to keep writing and think about getting an agent. They said my writing seemed strong enough. We even met one at the conference interested in reviewing my work.  But that was put on hold because of our upcoming move.

Before our adventures at the conference, we had been in the process of finding a home in which my parents could downsize and still keep my special needs in mind. After months of searching and putting our house on the market, we finally found one and are in the process of boxing our stuff to move. We have to be out of here soon and I feel bad I can’t help.

We're all stressed around here and it's showing itself in different ways. Dad's getting migraines (which he's never experienced), mom's back hurts her because of all the packing, me-, I can't write. Severe writers block.

The next few weeks are going to be complete chaos. Hotels, movers, etc.

Since my basement will not be done for at least a month, I will be living stairs. The change will be a bit to get used to. But at least I can be upstairs for Dinners for a while. Oh, I am not looking forward to having to rehire aides in that area. That's going to be fun. On the bright side, maybe some of them will be willing to take Medicaid so we don't have to pay cash. Although, this new timesheet system..

Anyway, I'm sorry my writing is not as eloquent as usual. You can tell I'm a little frustrated. Change is always difficult for anyone

Hopefully, I will be able to show you some pictures in my next post

Prayers would be appreciated

Debbie

This Time,Next Year- Inspirational Transformations Throughout One Year

Dear Readers,

Last night I watched an interesting premiere on lifetime that encapsulated people's personal transformations throughout one year into a matter of minutes. From a disabled man injured in a car accident promising to walk again to a woman's dream of becoming a bodybuilder, As the host of This Time Next Year,Cat Deely follows them on their journey to make their dreams come true. The Show airs on Lifetime Tuesdays at 10 p.m.

On a personal note, I was deeply touched by story of Derrick Strong. This amazing young man was always interested in taking care of others as aa nurses aide; until a tragic accident left him paralyzed and in a wheelchair. Doctors said he would never walk again, but he was determined with the help of family and friends to walk by himself by this time next year. During the montage which showed his journey, he encountered at another incredible obstacle- he was involved in another accident on his way from therapy. That still did not stop him though and he was able to walk with the assistance of a Walker and able to hug Cat as he walked through the "Next Year" doors. His amazing testimony of "The Impossible is Possible with God" left the audience in tears.

Try as I might, I was unable to find any more articles about this inspirational man. I'm not sure that he knows how much his five minute interview changed the minds of millions of  people across the world- including myself. I wish him the best in all his future endeavors and hope he continues to walk tall whatever life brings him.

Reflections for the upcoming season; Debbie's update

Merry Christmas.

Even as I dictate this, I can't believe it's that time of year already. For those of you that have followed this blog over the year, you probably understand what I mean..  Since losing my job almost 2 years ago, posts on this blog have been pretty sparse. Partly because I've been spending my time mailing out resumes  to appropriate contacts as well as dealing with  Social Security in  the interim. That's a whole  other story within itself. But I digress

The fact is I haven't been quite myself since.  True, the job help me out financially but even more than that it gave me a reason every morning-  a new sense of purpose. You see, I've always felt a calling when it comes to advocating for the disabled; I just wasn't quite sure how that criteria will fit into the job description;  that is until I started writing blogs on web accessibility- things sort of fell into place after that. I loved my job, people  appreciated me. More than that, having  financial independence gave me a new sense of freedom; I was able to support myself and continue living the apartment.  In hindsight, this began a negative pattern of self-reliance. I almost  forgot who had provided the job in the first place and how to be grateful in the first place

Hence, I can't help feeling that's why I am where I am right now. Not as a punishment, mind you but allowing me the time to get my bearings and learn a deeper dependence on God then ever before. Still, that doesn't mean I am not disappointed that I have to move back in with my parents in February. I will certainly miss my place.

I've heard it said that Christmas comes when we need it the most. That's certainly true this  Christmas. I need  God to renew to me the joy of my salvation.

With that, I leave this  question to you my readers: What present would you give your heart this Christmas?

Mine would be a new sense of faith and hope for the future
(Yes I know the verse Jeremiah 29:11- that God already provided for that but it's another thing to fully leave on that promise day in and day out, I'm only human!)

Encouragement: Lizzie Velasquez

Hello Again Readers~

A few days ago, I had the privilege of watching A Brave Heart: The Lizzie Velasquez Story on Lifetime. This documentary tells the remarkable story of how she lives with an undiagnosed disorder and coped with bullying at a young age. This disorder, diagnosed within the documentary, causes Lizzie to not gain weight and have cardiac issues. Some people may feel uncomfortable seeing her at first; but over time, they forget her disability and listen to the heart her message.

For more on her remarkable journey: please see the following resources:

http://imwithlizzie.com/

https://www.youtube.com/user/lizzitachickita

https://twitter.com/littlelizziev?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

"Who I AM" (60 seconds, subtitles)

Dear Readers~

Although I have several basic blogs over the last couple months, many of them have lacked substance. For that, I have to apologize. Over the last two months, I have struggled with yet another real-life scenario ... unemployment. That's right folks. I got laid off.

It's ironic because almost 4 months ago I wrote about the importance of finding one's mission field and using the gifts and talents you've been given to support those around you. Now I can't help but feel I'm back at square one. That's not to say I didn't love and appreciate what I did using my talent of writing to improve understanding on exactly what it takes to make technology accessible to those with disabilities. The job also offered the unique platform on which I shared my experiences working with technology on a daily basis. More important though, it gave me a reason to wake up in the morning.

Even though I spent a majority of time teleworking, my coworkers went above and beyond making me feel a part of the team. They looked past my disability and saw my potential and for that I will always be grateful. I believe everyone with a disability should have the same opportunity.

That being said, I strongly applaud the  public service announcement that has aired over the last several months that emphasizes opportunities for the disabled. People with disabilities need to be seen for more than their limitations. We have so much more to give society; we just need to be given the chance to succeed!

Entering Another Stage Of Life..

Hey Guys~

Recently, a disabled friend of mine got married and entered a new stage of life. I wish her and her husband all the best as they encounter the joys and challenges of marriage. Still, I am at a loss; once again, knowing that this may inevitably change the framework of friendship. in the meantime, I am also struggling with feelings of inadequacy. But I have to believe God has a plan for me and somewhere out there, He is molding my husband to be the man he has to be in order to take on the responsibility of caring for someone that is disabled. That being said, I would like to dedicate the following song and devotional to all those people caring for the disabled, as well as husbands taking care of wives with disability


Can I Borrow Your Hands Song and Devotional

God bless and Happy Friday!
Debbie

More Than Meets the Eye: the Story of Joan Brock

Welcome Back Readers ~

When people ask me "What's it like not being able to walk?", I really don't know what to say. Hwas born this way, so I don't know any different..

On the other hand, Joan Brock could give you a different answer. Not only did she work with the blind; but one day she woke up blind herself! Doctors then diagnosed her with a extremely rare case of accelerated muscular degeneration. Determined to maintain as normal life as possible, she returns to work. But then life deals another blow as her husband is diagnosed with cancer and dies shortly after. She is forced to adjust to life as a single mother until a high school friend enters her life.

For more information on the Joan Brock story and the Lifetime made-for-TV movie, you can go to:

http://www.allyourtv.com/pressreleases/lifetime/2003/april/04102003morethanmeets.html

 

 

Or you can view the movie online at:

http://www.mylifetime.com/movies/more-than-meets-the-eye-the-joan-brock-story/video/more-than-meets-the-eye-the-joan-brock-story

 

Encouragement: For Such A Time As This

Now, all I have is now

To be faithful

To be holy

And to shine

Lighting up the darkness

Right now, I really have no choice

But to voice the truth to the nations

A generation looking for God

Chorus:

For such a time as this

I was placed upon the earth

To hear the voice of God

And do His will

Whatever it is

For such a time as this

For now and all the days He gives

I am here, I am here

And I am His

For such a time as this

You - Do you ever wonder why

Seems like the grass is always greener

Under everybody else's sky

But right here, right here for this time and place

You can live a mirror of His mercy

A forgiven image of grace

Repeat Chorus

Can't change what's happened till now

But we can change what will be

By living in holiness

That the world will see Jesus

Repeat Chorus

For some reason, the lyrics to Wayne Watson's "For Such A Time As This" came to mind this morning when I was thinking about what to write for the blog. As a society, it's hard to look around and not be disappointed with the direction America has taken.

Don't get me wrong, I'm a proud American and I will always be one. But there are some things that this country was once founded on that seem to be forgotten in the midst of becoming a "greater" America. As a result, our foundation and integrity is in question.

So where does this leave us?

I don't know about you, but it leaves me feeling inadequate sometimes. After all, I'm just one voice in the midst of a crowd. Why do this if no one chooses to listen?

But then, I'm reminded of the Touched By an Angel episode where I first heard the song. In the episode, the angels try to enlist the help of a senator and an effort to acknowledge the existence of slavery in the Sudan. While Sen. Cooper (played by Lindsay Crouse) is preoccupied with more "pressing" issues, her son takes an interest in the photos they gave the senator as proof. So much so, that he takes the photos to show and tell at his school. That in turn, causes an avalanche of support from his class raising money in an effort to "buy back" the people in the photos. Thomas takes particular interest in one child named Sam who reminds him in a strange way of his brother whom he never got to meet.

"I had a brother once. I never really knew him, but I miss him and I don't know this kid, but it's hard to explain, but I miss him too ! Tomas says to his class during show and tell.

In the end, the senator did go to the Sudan to see it for herself and "buy" back Sam.

What am I getting at? In truth, this post turned out to be quite the opposite of its original purpose. To remind you that on any given day, you have the unique opportunity to make a difference. But now I'm not quite sure if that even makes any sense to me!

-- --

Citation:

Citation for TV program: "For Such A Time As This " Touched By an Angel. Hallmark Channel 240 HALL14 July 2010. Original air date: 9/26/1999

Ready for a change?

Hello everyone,

OK, so I'm not really posting this blog post on Monday. Oh the beauty of being able to post drafts early or later. Anyway, I've spent the beginning of my week on the job hunt. It's been quite difficult actually. I'm kind of limited with my option considering I have difficulty using my hands. But I haven't give up hope yet. My dream job, for the time being, would allow me to work from home writing articles. At least until I get the lay of the land here and Virginia. Wish me luck..

Onto today's post, I don't know about you but I am ready for a change. Since moving here, I haven't really felt like I've done much or made a difference for anyone. That's why I am looking forward to the season premiere of The Biggest Loser on NBC. Oh, I know the show is primarily about losing weight; but the reality is that they are making a real change in their life- a positive one that affects all aspects of their life. I don't know about you, but that's a very inspiring thing to watch. Join me in watching people's lives change for the better. Their journey starts Tuesday with a two-hour premiere. Check NBC.com for details.

Reflections on Personal Life

Okay,

So I had only intended on taking a break for a week but it turned into two weeks.. a busy two weeks at that! But if there is anything I've learned is to be grateful for every moment you're given because you can never get it back. Also, the most memorable moments in life are the unexpected and unplanned. Those are the ones that make life more of a journey, rather than
a deadlock of day to day tasks.

Over the last two weeks, I've witnessed three important people in my life enter into two different stages of life. A baptism and the wedding. They both symbolize the beginning of new life; but in different and unique ways. Through baptism my niece was dedicated to the Lord, in the knowledge that she might grow in faith and learn the ultimate purpose in her life-- to glorify the Lord in everything she does.

During the wedding of two of my close friends, I was reminded of that same commitment. Only this time it involved the unity of three people-- man, Woman, plus God. I watched as two souls became one, two chapters combined to complete a life story that was obviously ordained. I can't wait to see what the Lord has planned for those two. I'm sure it's going to be great and change a lot of people's lives.

That got me thinking. I'm beginning to wonder what God has written on the pages on my heart. I'm trying to be happy with where I am right now. I have a great family, a new house, wonderful nieces. But I can't help thinking that things could be better.

Please God, help me be satisfied with my life right now until I can see the words you have written for my life again.

Encouragement: Just Your Average Young Woman

Okay,

Let me begin this post a little differently than most-with a game. I'm going to give you, my readers, three questions regarding a certain person and it's your job to figure out who I am talking about.

Question One Who has worked for UNICEF during the last couple of months as a representative of the United States?

Question Two: During that time, she served as a teacher, teaching lessons of tolerance and acceptance?

Question Three: Her students simply know her as "Jenna".


Give up yet?


The unlikely response is Jenna Bush.


Most people simply view her as the President's daughter; but upon deeper reflection, you would learn she is so much more. In her first individual interview in years, this mature young woman speaks out about her life (inside & outside the White House). Although, the primary goal of the interview was to shed light on the devastating impact of AIDS all around the world, her main message is, "Meeting all the kids I've worked with, I've became impassioned. I think a lot of times kids don't realize how they have the power to change the world, "


After nine months of traveling through Latin America and the Caribbean, it's obvious that Jenna has learned as well as grown a lot because of the journey. Jenna carries back to the States an empowering message of change. One that she hopes will open people's eyes to the adversities and struggles around the world. "My job for UNICEF was to document the lives of kids living in exclusion, which means, you know, in extreme poverty, living with HIV/AIDS, living in abusive households. Kids that don't have access to school or medical care," she said.


With many years of teaching students in the inner city, Jenna seems in her element here. She listens intently as students’ talk of the realities of living with HIV/AIDS in Jamaica. In fear of their lives on a daily basis, some of their faces could not be shown.


"Knowing that you’re infected, you know, would probably cause you to be hurt, maybe even killed," one child said. (Note: This part of the interview was taken on location in Jamaica while Jenna was teaching.)


This fact seems surprisingly ironic especially considering Jamaica is right "in America's backyard".


As well as teaching about tolerance, Jenna also talks about such controversial topics as protected sex and abstinence.


Despite these debilitating circumstances, some choose to see their life as "A Journey of Hope". It is this remarkable view that Jenna hopes to portray in her new book, Ana's Story: A Journey of Hope. The book follows the courageous life story of one girl living life with AIDS. For obvious reasons, the main person's name in the book have been changed. In the beginning while writing this book on location, Jenna viewed Ana's story as a life of sickness [this word was translated from the Spanish word], but Ana quickly corrected her.

In paraphrase, Ana said that her AIDS was not an illness; but rather a "situation of her life".


----
Citation for TV Program: "20/20" News segment, Diane Sawyer reporting. ABC channel 7 WXYZ Detroit, News at 10 pm, September 28, 2007

What Are You Staring at?: Small Voices For a New Generation

Hello everyone,

A lot of people talk about the technological advances being made in an effort to help people live more independently as a productive citizens of the USA. Some simply view these advances as just another useful tool helping them to get through another difficult day with a disability; whereas, others view this technology as in "opening to a whole new world". Either way, people view technology, I think we are missing out on a fundamental truth.

What is that truth?

Change begins from within..


To put it more simply, change begins with me. Or anyone that is, wanting to make a difference in this world. I may have written about this topic once or twice before, but I think it's worthwhile mentioning again. (Note: Although from now on, I think I am going to start using the labels to make sure I don't end up repeating myself over and over again! LOL..) Anyway, this point was reiterated to me again through a unique Nick News Special called What Are You Staring at? The show featured a panel of outspoken people (both young and old) living with the a variety of disabilities. In this 30 minute panel discussion, the group attempts to answer some difficult questions. Some of the questions centered around the age-old dilemma To Help or not to Help: when does the line stop? as well as when exactly is the appropriate time for questions. The panel is also joined by well-known disability advocates John Hockenberry and Christopher Reeve (1952-2004). Although this program is over five years ago, I think there are many important lessons that still can be heard through the voices of these wise young children.

In order to save time, I will attempt to consolidate the most poignant answers to all these issues. The first being, is it appropriate to stare at someone because they are different.
The obvious answer is no. But here's why.. Christopher Reeve put it best when he said, " No matter what kind of condition you're in, we're all part of a big family and we only become strangers when we look away." He continues, "There is no reason for us to be strangers."

The debate over whether to help someone with a disability has also brought controversy. In my case, I can often understand why. Usually disabled people want to have the opportunity to try to accomplish things on their own before finally asking for help. However, it is not impolite to ask if they need your assistance in any way. Danielle who has CP and is also blind explains, "if I am struggling and if the door is really heavy, mainly out of common courtesy, most people open the door."

Why is the response so little?

Hockenberry says it is most often fear that holds people back. He says people are often afraid they will be judged by their offer to help "as if if they say or do the wrong thing, I'm going to whip some 911 and get the disability police to come." He goes on to explain that a person's experiences and personality should be the first thing that people see when looking at someone with a disability.

Christopher Reeve adds that people should not shy away from possible awkward experiences just because someone is disabled. Take for example the simple act of shaking hands. "I'm not offended by that at all because it's just a habit that they want to greet me. Anything that comes from a legitimate motivation to make contact is great," Reeve said.

Where does this fear come from? It can come from a variety of sources.. Sometimes even family members. "I think a lot of the time, parents, adults don't know, so they keep their children from learning.. because they don't know and they 're scared," said Danielle

To ask is always a better thing to do.

Let's take a look back at the history of disabled people as well as efforts to ensure the rights of the disabled, shall we?

Originally, the disabled population was considered second rate in the United States. In fact, before 1975, there were no laws protecting the rights and freedoms of the disabled. The truth is, ensuring our rights is still sometimes difficult. In 1975, Congress passed the individuals with Disabilities Act. This law guarantees that all children, no matter what their physical or mental limitations have access to a free and public education. This includes any special equipment needed to encourage the learning process. But what about when you become an adult and start looking for a job? This is where the American With Disabilities come into play. This law ensures that people with disabilities have the same rights as someone else. Building accessibility is just one of the major issues discussed in this law.

In general, the theme of the show was patience and persistence during any difficult time. Here are just some of my favorite quotes from some wise youngsters.

Daneille: "We can do anything that anyone else can do. We just do it differently."

Jon: "What I've got is what I've got and I think it's much more interesting for me to make the most out of what I have been to think about something that may be possible sometime in the far future."

Danielle: "You look at what you can do. You don't dwell on what you can't do."

Christopher Reeve: "Whatever happens, you gotta press forward and not just say oh well this is the end. It's never the end, you've gotta move forward,"

I think it is about time as the host said, to focus more on what we can do and what we can't.

--

Citation for TV Program: "What Are You Staring at? , Nickelodeon channel 59 Detroit, at 6 a.m. , September 26, 2007. (Original air date: September 6, 2001)