I have some news.

I wrote a book.

After Sophie was born, it took me a really long time to sort things out, and one of the ways I did it was by going back and reporting her story — our story, the story of what it means to have a kid with Down syndrome at the tip of the 21st century. I am lucky (incredibly, indescribably, amazingly lucky) enough to have an agent and a publisher (thanks, Jenny Bent! thanks, Susan Stokes and Woodbine House!) who gave me wonderful advice, guidance and editing — and ultimately let me do it the way I wanted.

So if it sucks, that’s on me.

It’s the book I wish I’d read before Sophie was born, the book I desperately needed once she was here. It’s a mix of journalism and memoir, and it’s about history, medicine, pop culture, friendship, genetics, education, sports, pre-natal testing — and love.

Sophie named the book and she’s super excited for it. I am, too. I haven’t said anything about it except to the friends and family who have heard about it non-stop (and if you think I’m kidding, ask them) and so I’m thrilled to make this announcement.

There will be a launch party at Changing Hands in Tempe on May 1, and more events to come. I’ll announce them here and at my new web site, myheartcantevenbelieveit.com.

I’ve had this little blog for many years (eight in May!) and I’ve never decided just exactly whom the girl in the party hat is. Usually it’s Sophie, but sometimes it’s me. Ditto for the title of this book — she said the words — but when I think about my wonderful family and how lucky I am to get to tell our story, my heart can’t even believe it, either.