Oh the joys....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyuNO0P5V9o

A few weeks ago, I was having a VERY trying week with Kyra. Her behavior, mood swings, tantrums, impulsiveness...everything had been at an all time high. Living with a child with special needs is not an easy task. It's very draining emotionally and physically. With Kyra, I struggle because her disability isn't an obvious one. It's not one that when you look at her, you think "she's different".

During this time, I was looking for some kind of a web support group and found a cool website. It promotes a book written by 2 sisters who are raising daughters with similar issues to Kyra. The title of the book pretty well sums up how I feel most of the time..."shut up about your perfect kid". Raising an imperfect child in a society where we expect perfection is difficult.

Don't get me wrong, I can talk forever about all of Kyra's positive features. She is so outgoing, friendly and loving. She is a great example of being Christlike. She loves just about anyone (I say "just about" because loving her brother is debatable).

Why am I writing about this now? A couple of reasons: 1) I have only acknowledged to a few close friends and some family that I have an imperfect daughter. I hate labels and judgement. I want people to love her for her. 2) Kyra started a group therapy a few weeks ago on social behaviors. The goal is to learn how to act/react in certain social settings. It's been entertaining watching her role play with the other kids each situation. I have to say that it's been a good experience for her.

I'm not whining (although I do that more than I should). I love my imperfect daughter. I'm not saying, "don't tell me about your perfect kids". I love listening to stories of my nieces and nephews. I love listening to my friends brag about their kids. My real gripe is when I have an opportunity to vent to someone and they say, "my child does that too". Ummmm..you're child is 4...mine is 10. Your child is EXPECTED to behave like that...mine...not so much. I love the quote "I know that God won't give me more than I can handle..I just wish he didn't trust me so much." I know that Heavenly Father knows each of us and helps us when we ask. I know that we will have difficult times, but we will also have times of peace (we have experienced it before) and enjoyment. She may be imperfect, but she's perfectly Kyra!