Sunday, December 18, 2016
Learning As I GrOw: faith, special needs & the children's section of life
Learning As I GrOw Holiday Message
This morning I was thinking about our family outing last Sunday to our local holiday craft show. Among the tents of creativity Mr & Mrs Claus made their appearance, a man up the way was constructing balloon characters and the waif of multiple aromas filled the air. We bought some kettle corn to share, and settled on a bench a short distance from the pavilion to take in the melodic sounds of the Christmas concert. Nearby a woman selling hot dogs would intermittently shout out "get your delicious hot dog here!!"
Tuesday, November 15, 2016
STUFF
I wouldn't have it any other way.
Friday, November 4, 2016
Paws of Remembrance
Thursday, October 27, 2016
Respect, Honor and Bravery

Sitting in the airport anticipating my first visit to New York City I met a lady who was heading home to NY from business here in FL. We talked about 9 /11, her experiences and her feelings about how people should respect the memorial. She felt that it was awkward and disheartening to see visitors snapping smiling photos in front of where so many lost their lives. As much as I love taking photos the feeling was mutual.
Sunday, October 16, 2016
Going Home

Saturday, September 24, 2016
Life Is Much Too Fragile

Monday, September 19, 2016
The Adventures of Chopper & T:
Sharing my heart
I've learned as we've both 'grown' that it truly is the little moments that matter. Slowing down to appreciate them instead of holding on to fear and worry was a challenge. Each and every milestone has been a celebration, not only of Tiana's progression but of who she is. When T was 7 we adopted a stray pup, an American bulldog we named Chopper. Chopper and T were best best buds. Tiana may have been my angel in disguise but he was hers. I knew one day we would share our experiences with hopes of helping others. Writing, prayers and her crooked little smile kept me sane throughout our journey.
I decided to self publish "It's My Life & I'll Smile If I Want To: a journey towards inspiration", a poetry book that essentially stemmed from my daily journaling. Sharing the raw emotions I struggled with will hoefully help others know they are not alone on their journey. Then of course there's "The Adventures of Chopper & T. I wrote this to help spread awareness that we all have differences, that it's ok to ask questions but being a friend is what matters most. This book is a zany adventure story that shows how art, music, and nature can help with emotions while also bringing awareness of rare and invisible disabilities to children at an early age. I shared the vision I had with illustrator Alexandra MacVean who captured them both perfectly with her whimsical and bright illustrations. An activity book and sensory tote bag is in the works, with a completed vision for a book series. Donating my books to many local libraries and schools has been important to me as I believe this will offer more awareness to the community.
My daughter is now 20, living with five other amazing young ladies. She will always need care, she will always require an advocate and she will always illuminate joy and love. I intend to be there for her forever and always. Letting go is the most difficult thing I've had to do, and as a mom to a child with special needs I cannot, nor will I ever fully let go. I am learning to loosen my grip a little more each day. Yes, she may be childlike despite her age, but Tiana Hope has grown into a beautiful young lady- finding her way, at her own pace. Words cannot express how proud I am of all her accomplishments. Her determination has shown me just how strong I really am. To all the mommas, poppas, siblings, and caregivers- stay strong! You are not alone!
Please subscribe to my blog and like my author page on Facebook along with Instgram and Twitter.You'll find links to my books, upcoming events, helpful tips, inspiration, including posts on our new adventure: the boat life living aboard Summer Reign! Our goal is not only to cruise but to provide sunset sails for parents and caregivers as a respite for all they do. I am available for speaking engagements, school events, story time and Creative Journaling sessions called Project Journal: Learning As I GrOw.
For the record, I think someone at Disney overheard me saying her name and shared it at the castle. Tehehee. T is my true princess!
Remember; always follow your dreams, be inspired, and find adventures along the way!
~ April XO
Monday, July 11, 2016
Renaming Ceremony ⛵
On July 1st 2016, a year shy of purchase, we completed our renaming ceremony for SUMMER REIGN. There's a sailors legend and so we wanted to ensure we followed through. Captn Paul led us in a successful Ceremony and I his 1st mate assisted while our friends and family members cheered us on. The old name was removed from the Ledger of the deep and Poseidon's memory. We read the verses, offered champagne to Poseidon, tossed the coin with the old name on it into the sea and unveiled the new name. Such a beautiful feeling to finally have the name we agreed upon on the boat. Now we're not superstitious, however we don't want bad luck, and it was fun to do. My brother, who's a pastor, will be by soon to say a prayer of blessing over Summer Reign. We wouldn't be where we are without God's grace and we're grateful that our dreams are coming true. God is good! ♡
Saturday, June 25, 2016
Addictions
So I shared this photo for the first day of SUMMER because it reminded me of the lake I used to go to as a kid with my mom, dad, & brother, but my sister was younger & didn't have that experience. So her memory of the lake was our ex step dad. He was a good guy, but an alcoholic. For many years I was somehow granted the duty of protecting my brother and sister from his craziness. This day was the day I confirmed to Dennis & placed his mind at ease, that I forgave him for his drinking, his blackouts, his abuse towards our mom (that was unwillingly allowed) . It's not pretty. But it's real. He was drunk even then. Shortly after he passed away because his organs shut down. That's what's real to me. He knew I forgave him and he finally forgave himself. Sadly it was too late. I forgive, but I can't forget. Love you Dennis, RIP. See you when I see you. *If you or someone you love is an alcoholic please know there is help.
Friday, June 24, 2016
Solitude
Having moments of solitude is a necessity to one's life, in my mind. I am grateful for those times, whether minutes or hours, that seem to 'take' me away to where I need to be. I'm not a morning person persay, and I adore the moon, but I love meetings with the sun. Now sunsets are beautiful, however those first few minutes when the sun greets you with a bright hello- you will be captivated. Life gets busy. We can slow it down by simply soaking in a few golden moments. Find your treasure today and tomorrow and the next day. Those moments of solitude are my treasure.
Friday, May 20, 2016
Marina Life
Marina life is not for everyone. Many of my friends and family have said they couldn't do it. Couldn't get rid of all their stuff, couldn't live in a small space, couldn't have a tiny bathroom, couldn't... but we can. The difference in why we can is simply our mindset. I used to say those same words. Now I wouldn't want it any other way. Sure, it has its ups and downs. A smaller space, the a/c going out, using the marina laundry facilities, finding new leaks when it rains, having less stuff- alot less. All of these things are actually a refreshing change. I am entranced by the sunrises, and enjoy those evening rays dissipating as the moon shines its light over the water as the dolphin and manatee play hide and seek, the fish jump, and the pelicans swoon. Not to mention Rocky loves chasing tbe ducks. Celebrating nature, simplifying our lifestyle and appreciating life has offered us growth and a peace we would not likely have found. We've been able to go sailing, finding our groove so we can take family and friends out. To some our sail from Key Largo to St Pete is a drop in the bucket, and I am certain that one day it will be for us as well as we now dream of cruising. Our dreams became goals which is now our reality. In four to five years the goal is to quit our jobs, cruise, stay where we want for as long as we want. I cannot wait to share those adventures with you! For now I will be continuing to share our story of living on a sailboat - the boat life. As we work, play, dream, and sail be sure to follow along!
Monday, May 9, 2016
Mommy Moments
I hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day! Each and every one of us had a different experience with our children, and our mommas. My mom raised me to always believe in myself, to never give up and to place my trust in the Lord. I am forever grateful for her love, guidance and support throughout the years. I've watched her overcome battles that I'm not sure even she thought she would get through. I'm a proud daughter, and also a proud mommy to Tiana Hope who is now 21! Life has been full of ups and downs, but the knowledge and love my mom passed on helped me overcome battles that I never thought I'd overcome. I got to spend time with my mom before Mother's Day, then spent time with my daughter on Mother's Day. Now wouldn't it be nice if life waa always picture perfect, like we see all over social media? Well, it's not. Yes, our time was precious, but unfortunately T had behaviors with aggression towards me that ended up in a meltdown. Crying and screaming in front of the marina was the scene many witnessed. A nice couple stopped to ask if she was ok, another young lady passed by asking questions. We had to ride out the storm until she was finally able to contain herself. Was it upsetting? Of course. I needed some down time afterwards, of which I pondered on how far we've come on our special needs journey. Love enables you to find the strength you so desperately need no matter what you're faced with. I may get discouraged but my cup is always half full. Cheers to all the mommas out there!
Saturday, April 16, 2016
Feel your sadness, then release it
My life has changed quite a bit in the last year. Life is good. We live in paradise, on a sailboat, off the St Petersburg waterfront; and we love it! There's always something happening around town, and even though we're still working it certainly feels like a vacation coming home to the docks. The last few days I've allowed sadness to creep in as I overthink my writing goals, not to mention the day job has my anxiety level up. With an impending full moon this hubby & wife recently found ourselves at odds. Isn't it crazy how those silly little things become gigantic if we let them? Not all our ideas are going to be the same because we're two different people, imagine that, and so we're certainly not going to agree on everything. Striving for perfection in anything is not how relationships, jobs, or goals are accomplished. It's about striving for a pasion, a love, a dream that brings you to your perfect destination. I decided not to be so hard on myself. If one goal doesn't happen there's many more out there to work towards. Finding time to write is a must for my sanity and therein lies my problem.. I just need to write. As far as our marital bliss, we all have times where we don't like one another for a minute. Nobody is going to have the same feelings or experiences. If we stop to look at the big picture then we can stop worrying about the little things. Instead of only seeing and hearing each other in the physical realm, I believe we should look and listen at one another in an emotional aspect as well. Talk things out and pray together. Doing something for yourself like going for a walk alone can recharge your mind, heart and soul. It's ok to feel sad, it's learning how to release that sadness that's so important. Don't get caught up with busy or worry, instead pick up a hobby you enjoy. Go outdoors. Get a journal and write things down. That sadness, anxiety or depressed emotion will be replaced with joy, peace and harmony. photo and article by april k corbett ©
Sunday, February 21, 2016
The Boat Life: STILL AFLOAT

Where did I leave off? It's been awhile since I've blogged about the boat life, so it's time I bring you up to speed. We've settled in quite well. Living on a sailboat brings with it mostly perks, however there are a few things I would change if I could. My favorite part of this lifestyle is having less. Yes, I said that. Seriously, it has been exhilerating to remove stuff you truly don't need from your life. Confession: I do utilize the trunk of my car for extra shoes, and purses etc- a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do. Then there's the fact that I've never slept better in my entire life. Our state room is cozy, and the lull of the boat along with the distant sounds of halyards cling clanging among the marina makes for a peaceful rest. Sunrises from my 'back porch' (cockpit) are a wonderous sight to take in every morning as I keave for work. Returning from work the view towards downtown boasts a majestic sunset almost daily. Now, lets discuss the cold and rain. Well, we're toasty warm inside as we have heat (&a/c) but I could do without the rain. I love a rain shower here and there, but lately we've had alot of it, which brings along with it dampness; and strategic leaks. We've purchased a dehumidifier and are learning along the way how to keep our home comfortable and welcoming. Our walks to the nearby market, and all that downtown has to offer is amazing. We take advantage of walking, bike riding and of course sailing whenever we can. Both of us have lost weight which is a plus. Then there's always some type of excitement happening at the marina. One evening we came home, as we're walking down the dock we hear someone yelling for help from a distant dock. My hubby ran over to the next dock to find a man in the water near his boat who couldn't save himself from his epic fall. Needless to say hubs pulled this guy out of the water to safety. I never in my wildest dreams thought I'd be living on a boat, but I'm sure glad I am. It's not for everyone; as it requires a total mindset change. Most people are intrigued and I believe they wish they could do it. Others aren't sure how or why we do it. My goal is to pursue my passion for writing and inspire others. Our goal is to work less, enjoy life more, and bring simplicity to a world that is constantly striving for excess; which in turn causes stress. Start small, declutter, write down one goal, follow a dream and find adventures. I promise you, it will change your life for the better.
Photo credit: April K Corbett
Saturday, February 6, 2016
Relish Please

Sunday, January 31, 2016
Special Announcement: New Children's Book
I'm thrilled to announce my long time coming children's book has been released and now ready for purchase. You can either grab your copy on Barnes & Noble or Amazon. Illustrator, Alexandra MacVean of Blue Chair Diary Illustrations, did a wonderful job at capturing the heart and spirit of both Tiana and Chopper.
Story Focus: An adorable, zany adventure story that shares the heartwarming bond of two best friends while bringing awareness of rare and invisible disabilities. Chopper & T find out along the way how art, music and nature can help with emotions.
Make sure to check out my events section for upcoming store visits and book signings.