Keep It Together Man

For Dads with a Special Kid

By: Rick Daynes

Narrated by: Rick Daynes

Marriage, children, money, and everyday battles take their toll on any parent. This book navigates a clear path through the roller coaster of life. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be motivated by author Rick Daynes, the keeping-it-real father of five, three of whom have special needs. Although he speaks to dads of special kids, these life-changing solutions inspire all parents who want to empower their marriage and shape the brightest future for their family.

©2016 Rick Daynes (P)2017 Rick Daynes

This is a great read or listen for any parent.

The scenarios and situations described are relatable in so many ways. It was a joy to listen to Rick tell the stories himself. My wife says his advice is spot on in every case.

Wow... I wish this book existed years ago for Dads

Honestly, for Dads and Moms this book should be a must read, but the focus really is to help us Dads. I wish this council had been given to me years ago.... and for any mom's reading this... get Dad the audio book, unless he really likes to sit and read, I found myself listening to this while shopping at home depot and getting things done around the house. I've struggled to keep it together, as our own son has received various diagnosis. I don't know if there is anything really 'ground breaking', even though I learned a lot. Probably the number one lesson I gained, was that I had failed to consistently take care of myself, always sacrificing my own needs, and thus impacting my marriage and relationships with my kids and others. I am one of those people who never put the POG as a priority. It always seems like a one-day there will be time and it will work out. IT WILL NEVER JUST WORK OUT. Like all good things, i.e. opening the fridge on the way to the gym and the cheesecake is smack dab in front of the water bottle you had planned to take with you, obstacles will get in the way and you have to work through it. POGs will now become more of a priority for my wife and I. I really appreciated the honest approach of the author on various subjects, and that it spoke to me, the common man, and not with a bunch of technical and medical terms and issues I could not understand. I found myself relating to so many of these principles and points, despite having my own children with issues other than down syndrome like the author. This book is for EVERYONE and especially for anyone with a child or children with special needs. If you are a friend, grandparent, neighbor, church leader, or anyone else with a connection to someone with a special needs child, this book contains so much insight, you will really see things in a new light.

MUST READ!!!

This book has helped our family and our marriage with three kiddos who have special needs. Anyone would benefit from reading this book. The emphasis on making sure your oxygen mask is on so you can be the best spouse and parent to your children stood out to me. POGs are essential. We were laughing so hard about the Mama Bear part, knowing the “pick a littles”, the Black Friday story, and many of the personal experiences Rick shared. The raw emotions and genuine thoughts were touching and we are grateful to the Daynes family for their amazing examples of service and love.

What an inspirational story!

Rick adds a lot of humor with real life examples to connect to everyone, especially guys. I found myself laughing, crying and finding courage to face the challenges that come with a special needs child. It inspires empathy and respect for those who deal with these type of challenges so I can join the "Club" and be a light and provide service and hope to those in need.

Fantastic tell-it-like-it-is guide

Rick really hits the nail on the head on so many levels all throughout his book. Sure, there are some slow parts wether it's a subject that may not entirely relate to you or maybe you get hung up on the occasional slurred words. But overall, this book is a gem and a must read/listen for all dad's. And yes, maybe even wives. Mine is getting through it right behind me. Good thing? Bad thing? Time will tell. Thanks Rick! Hope to catch you sometime on the waves, slaying some fish or maybe just in the same place at the same time enjoying our kids.