Thursday, June 16, 2022

Neurodiverse Parenting: One Year In







It’s been a little over a year since we received Avery’s diagnoses of Level I Autism and ADHD and there have been a lot of feelings packed into 365 days. I always come back to the fact that a diagnosis and label doesn’t change a thing about a person. If anything, it only opens more doors in terms of services and resources. In general, people still tend to have a sorrowful response when they learn that Avery has Autism. However, for us, we see it has a set of superpowers that she has and will continue to have for her whole life.


This past spring was the first time that we had an open discussion with Avery about her Autism. She knows that she has severe ADHD and that she takes medicine to help her focus and regulate. However, Autism isn’t as easy to nail down from a kid's perspective, so we held off on diving in on that one. When we did talk about it this year, though, we shared that everyone’s brain has a bunch of wires in it that help us think, feel, and act, and that some people’s wiring looks a little different.  Avery’s diverse wiring gives her the superpowers of unmatched empathy, an incredibly sharp memory, a musical mind, and many more superpowers that not everyone else has. It also means that sometimes she can be very rigid and that her flight or fight response can be very strong in situations where it isn’t for other people. Things that aren’t triggering for other kiddos her age might be very triggering for her, and she knows that we’re constantly developing systems together as a family to help us navigate the situations that prompt the big responses. I think anyone who knows Avery will attest to the fact that she is one of the biggest lovebugs that you’ll ever meet. She emotes in a big, big way across the spectrum of emotions and at the end of the day, we wouldn’t change a thing about her.

 

From a parental perspective, there are so many lessons that we continue to learn. Here are some of them:

- It’s hard (nearly impossible?!) to do this alone. Finding specialists around your child’s needs is life changing. Between Avery’s psychologist, occupational therapist, speech therapists, psychiatrist, etc., we have found such a strong network of support. It never escapes me how privileged and fortunate we are to have found such incredible specialists that have helped us navigate uncharted territory. Avery knows that each one of these adults is there to help her.

-Social situations are often challenging. I wish that I could say that this only goes for new social environments, but it doesn’t. Some days, even the most routine situations can set off a five alarm fire and it’s just life with a neurodiverse kiddo. Families that know us well know that there may be days when we simply must bolt and while it’s not ideal, it’s life. It’s unpredictable and can be messy.

-Setting up systems around recurring triggers is super helpful. Some of our biggest triggers are weather, bugs/birds, and big crowds. We almost always have the weather app at our fingertips, we will often show up on the earlier or later side of events with noise cancelling headphones in tow, and in terms of bugs and birds…I’ve got nothing, ha! If anyone has any advice on the last one, we’re all ears!!

-Neurodiversity is hard on a marriage. Yes- I said it! Just like any situation that requires endless attention and one that can create unpredictable stress at any given day and time, it takes a toll.  The most difficult part for us is the unpredictability that every day brings because you constantly feel like you’re walking around on pins and needles. CP and I have had our moments where we are at our wits end with each other and throw our hands up in the air (and then take some space).  At the end of the day, though, there’s absolutely no one else that I would want to have as a partner in neurodiverse parenting. We respect and create space for each other’s ideas and opinions and know that we’re both human beings with feelings, too.

-Sibling life can be tough. I think about this a lot with Harper. In a lot of ways, having a neurodiverse sister has made her a more flexible and adaptable kiddo. She’s also subject to a lot of unjustified outbursts and erratic behaviors, though, and it’s hard not to worry about that.  That being said, Aves and Harper have an incredible bond that is remarkable to observe (especially as an only child myself). They are one another’s biggest cheerleaders and are fiercely protective of each other. It’s important for us to remember, though, that Harper needs support in ways that are less obvious but just as significant.

- Not everyone will understand, and that’s okay. The longer we’ve been doing the neurodiverse parenting gig, the better I’ve gotten and just letting it goooooo. The energy spent on worrying about the stares, comments, or advice given from others is simply not worth it. Period.

-Our circle is small but fierce. As an extrovert myself, I’ve had to adjust expectations around involvement in activities and social circles in general. Frankly, it’s been a bit of a relief! We know that Avery thrives in small groups with familiar people and it has taken a lot of pressure off buying into the pressure cooker of commitments that is Northern Virginia.

-Don’t let others downplay your situation. We’ve had some well-meaning people say that Avery doesn’t “seem” Autistic. While I believe the comment is meant to be comforting, no one knows the intricacies of a neurodiverse child and family other than that family. Avery masks *incredibly* well in certain situations, which is both a blessing and a curse. It’s always helpful to lead with an open and empathetic heart, knowing that many families are struggling on different levels behind the scenes (whether it involves neurodiversity or not).

-It’s okay to resent your kiddo at times AND love them with every cell of your being. There have been many times when I’ve wondered how different our life might look without a child with Autism. It’s a natural wondering! Avery is fiercely attached to me, despite so much work around boundaries and space between us. Does this mean there are days when I nearly lose my mind on her? Absolutely. Yet, I wouldn’t change a thing about Avery or our family. In a lot of ways, she’s the best thing that has ever happened to us.

-The road will be ever-changing. The triggers now may not be the triggers next year and, conversely, the things that work this year may not work next year. It’s hard not to ponder what life with a neurodiverse kiddo will look like down the road. I joke with Chris that Avery will be living with us when she’s 40 because she’s so attached to me! At the end of the day, though, our family’s love will always carry us through anything, along with the help of our extraordinary support system. We’ll weather the highs and lows with a deep respect and understanding for one another, which is all that any of us can ask for in this life. 

Sunday, November 21, 2021

Gift Guide 2021



Gift Guide!


Female, minority-owned small businesses: 

Pat’s Granola- https://patsgranola.com/ (Hands down, the best granola EVER)

Oh Happy Dani goods (inclusive quotes on cards, shirts, prints, etc.) - https://ohhappydani.com/shop/

Mahogany Books- https://www.mahoganybooks.com/

Arise for Jewelry - https://arisefor.square.site/

Nothing In Between Studio (non-toxic nail care and spa in Falls Church)- https://nothinginbetweenstudio.com/

The Tiny Tassel jewelry and accessories: https://thetinytassel.com/

Thulisa Naturals bath and body products- https://thulisanaturals.com

More Than Your Average (plus size vintage clothing and accessories in DC) - https://www.morethanyouraverage.com/

Organic Impression notecards, journals, and bags- https://www.organicimpression.com/

Kess Hair and Skincare in Falls Church- https://www.kessfc.com/hair

The Spice Suite in DC- https://www.thespicesuite.com

Karina Gaull Handbags- https://www.karinagaull.com/

Bright Black non-toxic candles: https://brightblackcandles.com/

Oyah Natural Skincare- https://oyahnaturalskincare.com/

Feminist Book Club: https://www.feministbookclub.com

JoyLife Spa (Fairfax): https://www.joylifespa.com

KSM Candle Co. candles, candle kits, and artisanal goods: https://www.knitssoyandmetal.com/

Granddaddy’s Skillet restaurant in Alexandria: https://www.facebook.com/Granddaddys-Skillet-103338874918419/

OmMade Peanut Butter: https://www.ommadepb.com/


Other non-minority female owned small businesses: 

The Bee and the Fox- wonderfully empowering shirts and items for females and kiddos : https://www.thebeeandthefox.com/

Oat Haus granola butter (formerly Kween&Co): https://oat.haus/

Fountains Day Spa (Old Town Alexandria): https://fountainsdayspa.com/

Balanced Female Fitness (NoVa, but also has a digital library): https://www.balancedfemalefitness.com/

Small batch artisanal caramels: https://www.lavachemicrocreamery.com/ 

100 Bowls of Soup (Herndon): https://100bowlsonline.square.site/

SAT and other test prep: https://www.bestprep.com/

Rose and Resilience handmade accessories: https://www.roseandresilience.com/

BlackNerd Coffee: https://blacknerdcoffee.com/

Botanologica- plants, décor, flowers: http://www.botanologica.com/

Branch Basics non-toxic home cleaning supplies: https://branchbasics.com/




Tuesday, September 28, 2021

Shame, I'm Murdering You



   


     Despite an incredible amount of growth during several years of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, there was one part that I could never nail down. To really move through situations riddled with anxiety and anger, my therapist would have me travel to the depths of my emotions and envision how I would react to a situation if there were no rules or consequences. Within those four walls, anything was safe. Screaming, violence, you name it - it was all allowed. The idea was that once the anger was truly out there, there was space to move past it with clarity. I tried and tried (and tried!) to really go there but I was often met with fear and trepidation over what my anger could look like if I fully unleashed it. Fast forward to six years later and I have arrived. I have arrived at the point where I am unabashedly tearing a big and scary monster to pieces on a regular basis. That monster is Shame.

    Shame started to creep into my life about a year ago when we realized that something was off kilter with our oldest daughter, then five years old. The tantrums, fears, and general behaviors that you might expect from a younger child were occurring with high frequency, and they began drawing more and more attention in public. While receiving a diagnosis of Autism and ADHD was certainly helpful in many ways, neither of those diagnoses changed our reality. Our reality is that on a very regular basis, our daughter acts out in ways that attract stares and comments from people.  Shame, Shame, Shame.

“You really have your hands full.”

“Do you ever just say no to her?”

“Goodness, someone really needs a nap.”

I can’t count the number of times that I have wanted to crawl into a hole and disappear in these moments. Shame creeps in swiftly and severely. It wraps its long arms around me and tells me that we’re not deserving of the everyday activities and outings that most families are able to pull off with ease.

    There was a moment this summer, though, when it all finally clicked. I decided that I was ready to go full throttle with my anger and to murder Shame. We were at the pool and there was a bird. Yes- a bird. THE FREAKING BIRDS. They’ve been a trigger this summer and have spoiled many family adventures (neurodiverse parents, I see you nodding your head!). As the bird pranced around the gazebo, our daughter started shrieking and running in every which direction. The problem was, there were *lots* of birds in every direction. Each pivot to escape was met with another high-pitched scream and cry. As heads turned and eyes widened, I decided that I’d had it. I couldn’t let Shame take the wheel once again. It was time to tear Shame to pieces and bury it six feet under.  

    The truth is that if I continued to let Shame control me, I would be the one six feet under. How do we get past it, though? How do we live in our truth confidently without letting Shame steer us to the depths of despair? For me, I needed a swift kick in the butt when it came to my perspective. What if, instead of feeling small in these situations, I leaned into the idea that some people are not able to get vulnerable with our family?  What if I leaned into the fact that they don’t know our full story and can’t see the absolute magic that occurs in tandem alongside the most challenging moments and days?  Anyone who is living with a neurodiverse kiddo will tell you just that: there is MAGIC. The people who stare, the people who sneer, and the people who make comments that tear you down instead of lifting you up are simply not meant to live in that magical space with you. They’re not worthy of your family’s full story that is bursting with so much love and joy (okay, except when there are birds).

    Shame is such a small, small person when you realize the strength and affection that exists within your circle. The circle that knows your story and loves you for it – or in spite of it.  The circle that, despite your biggest fears, will continue showing up for you time and time again. The circle that doesn’t bat an eye when you need to bolt while carrying your kiddo away torpedo style. The circle that loves your neurodiverse child and your family for who they are at their core.

 

Shame, your run was short-lived, and our lives are better off without you in it. I don’t doubt that you’ll creep in from time to time, but I know that our circle’s love will kick you to the curb every single time.


Tuesday, March 30, 2021

How I Knew It Was Time

 


Hiiiii!! I'm so excited to be back to blogging with a bit more frequency (hopefully). I feel like Instagram has been my pseudo-blog platform for a bit now and while I mostly love Instagram, nothing can replace the written word on here. 

Since I shared that I'm leaving teaching a few weeks ago, the top two responses have been: "How did you know it was time?" and "What's next?". 

I've always felt called to give back, which is how I landed in teaching in the first place. It felt like a natural fit and it has been for the past twelve years. Ironically, when I started teaching, I felt like it would be a two or three year gig before I hopped into admin or educational policy, but alas, the joy of the classroom was too much to walk away from. Never did I imagine that I'd be one of the last classroom teachers standing from my graduating class (this is a sad reality that I'll address in another post). 

That being said, I've felt called to more for a bit now. It's hard to describe, but if you read this post from 2016 then you'll see that the feeling has been brewing for some time now. Motherhood, routine, and comfort called though and I happily stayed in the classroom. "More than anything, I want to continue being grateful for this life, for the opportunities to fall and to get back up, and for the chance to fill this Earth with love." (2016). I teared up reading that from 2016 because I know that this feeling has been bubbling at the surface for some time and while part of me is a bit surprised that it has taken me this long to get here, I have so much grace for myself given the insane life transitions that have transpired over the past five years. 

In total transparency, I knew that it was time to leave two years ago -so much so that I asked for a sabbatical that spring for the following school year. It wasn't met with much enthusiasm and while the decision was 100% mine, I stayed -but mostly out of guilt. I still loved teaching and continued to pour my heart into the job every single day, but once again, the feeling of being called to more was not only present, but was boiling over at this point.

The irony, of course, is that during that summer and into the fall my health fell to pieces. Life as I knew it would be turned upside down with my Hypophysitis diagnosis and it has taken time to reach a new, sustainable normal. So here we are again: how did I know *this* was the time? Well, between my health and already having had asked for a break prior to this, I knew that it was a natural second request at this point. I'm halfway through a full career with FCPS and I do think that I'll be back in some capacity at some point. Like some of you, I grew up in a house with parents who poured their heart and souls into jobs that they knew would secure a solid retirement. While I have so much respect for that, my dad died a year after his retirement. This changed my perspective on life in so many ways, including around my career. We get this one life and I don't want to settle for comfort and routine. 

SO! Long story long, I've known it was time to step outside my career for a while, but it took a few years for everything to come to fruition. I'm glad that it took time and I've never resented anything about my time in the classroom- quite the opposite. That being said, change is scary and change is good.

In terms of what's next- eeeeks! So many exciting unknows currently. There's a small business brewing behind the scenes that I'll share more about when I' m further along with it, but it is something that I'm so flipping excited about and is an ode to my dad in many ways. There are also some other opportunities knocking that I'm very much looking forward to pursuing. More than anything, though, I'm looking forward to exploring some new spaces in my life. I've always been such a go-getter and have to stay busy to feel accomplished. While this has served me well overall, it's also a flawed approach in so many ways. I know what a privilege it is to have this chance to pause, reboot, and launch. It's truly something that I'm grateful for and excited about. 

There you have it. It has taken a looong time to get here and I'm so excited for these new adventures. They may fail, but I'll never know if I don't try. 




 




Friday, November 20, 2020

THE Shop Small and Local Post!!!



Alright friends, it's heeeeere! Your ultimate guide to shopping small this holiday season. I hope that you discover some great finds on this list. <3


FOOD related:

The BEST granola you will ever eat. Pat pours her heart and soul into this granola and gosh can you taste it. I order a ton of small bags at the holidays for friends, teachers, etc..

Kween Granola Butter Can you tell that I love granola products?! If you follow me on Insta then you know that I am positively obsessed with Ali's granola butter. I put in oats and yogurt, on toast, or eat it straight from the spoon. It's also a great alternative for nut-free environments!

Dean's Beans Coffee  A friend recommended Dean's Beans and I'm excited to try their coffee!

OmMade Peanut Butter  Hand-crafted flavored peanut butter? YES.

Esquire Confections Amanda is a local mom who makes incredible cakes and baked goods tailored to your preference! We've ordered many cakes from her and they are always amazing.

Red Truck Bakery  Well-known across the country for their delicious baked goods, Red Truck Bakery has two local storefronts in Warrenton and Marshall, Va. That being said, they also ship their delectable treats all over the country! Did someone say rum cake???

Gratisfied Empower Bars I am obsessed with Empower Bars. Developed by a fellow UVA alum, these are such a nutritional powerhouse.

Clean Conscience Chocolate I came across this chocolate randomly on a road trip and it's AMAZING for those of us that have a lot of dietary restrictions. The chocolate PB cups and the coconut cups are out of this world. CP, are you reading this? :)

SweetsBye Another local baker that puts out amazing custom work.

The Happy Tart If you're local and anyone in your circle is gluten sensitive, you must go here! So many delicious options. 

*Additionally, consider purchasing gift cards/certificates for favorite local, non-chain restaurants and cafes that can be redeemed down the road in person or for takeout!

KID related:

Pufferbellies Toys You know those amazing toy stores that seemingly no longer exist? Pufferbellies is your spot. They have it ALL and they deliver! Their book section is hands down my favorite of anywhere I've shopped.

Doodlehopper This toy store is also wonderful, particularly if you're in NoVa and want to see things in person. We frequent Doodlehopper for birthday gifts!

Stitchy Fish I recently discovered Stitchy Fish through Instagram (#theygotme) and it is adorable clothing that is preppy but not over the top. They also have smocked items if that is your jam.

Shutterbugs Boutique Another adorable kiddos clothing store out of North Carolina.

Maple and Lark  Darling eco-friendly gifts for the little ones in your life!

Rose and Rex An assortment of great toys that inspire creativity.


GENERAL GIFTS:

The Urban Farmhouse Located in Arlington, this adorable shop has lots of great finds for all sorts of people in your life. From art to vintage goods and to holiday decor- they have you covered.

Covet Next to The Urban Farmhouse is Covet! Whereas the former has more homey gifts, Covet has smaller, more quirky stuff. It feels like you're shopping a bunch of awesome Etsy stores all under one roof!

*Both The Urban Farmhouse and Covet have an online store with delivery.

MadeVA Another AWESOME gift store out of Staunton, Virginia. I always find the best gifts here and their online store has just about everything that they have to offer in person, too. 

The Tiny Tassel Fun jewelry and accessories fill this adorable shop!! I'm eyeing some headbands for the holidays!

Botanologica A darling store in Falls Church City, Botanologica is a must for any plant lovers in your life. They have an incredible assortment of unique plants that are impressively priced.

Rachel Mulherin Jewelry I've been a fan of Baltimore native Rachel's jewelry for years. It is just so unique and stunning. I may have picked up a few pieces recently and I just love them so much. 

SweatyBands Hands down the best non-slip headbands! I have so many (the 3/8 inch and 5/8 inch width are my favorite) and there are endless fun designs.

Seven Oaks Lavender Fam If lavender is your jam, this is your spot to buy from. They have all things lavender from yoga mat spray to candles to tea.

Christina Kober Jewelry Owned by a friend's sister, Christina has stunning pieces that would make the perfect gift. Her bar necklaces would be perfect for a mama in your life.


BOOKS (please please please consider purchasing books from local, small bookstores!):

Mahogany Books Based in DC, Mahogany Books is owned by power couple Derrick and Ramunda Young. They write, "We take a leadership role in the African American community by promoting reading, writing, and cultural awareness as tools to improve self-esteem, self-love and ultimately our communities to enrich the lives of motivated individuals."

One More Page- A wonderful locally owned bookstore that ships everywhere! 


SERVICES:

Ivy Calvert, Wardrobe Stylist (@calvertandco.styling on Instagram):  This is the service that you never knew you needed and you totally need. As someone who loves clothes, I've never nailed down a style....until Ivy! From a style consult to a wardrobe edit, Ivy will have you covered with tips and tricks to streamline your wardrobe and style. For me, paying for her service cuts down on a LOT of wasted money on clothing down the road.

Balanced Female Fitness My lifesaver in regards to my fitness and sanity. I've realized how much a sense of community inspires me with my fitness as I've gotten older and you will not find a more supportive and uplifting group of females anywhere else. With a digital library and tons of online classes, you don't have to be local to join either!

Fountains Day Spa Located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, my mom and I have been going to Fountains for facials and massages since I was in high school! While you may not feel comfortable heading in for a treatment right now, I highly recommend taking advantage of their specials and stocking up on a package for post-COVID delight! And if you are comfortable heading in, they have very thought out health protocols in place.













Wednesday, October 7, 2020

Fall Cozies

Fall is officially upon us, which means sweaters and slippers are making their way back into the rotation these days. Here are some of my favorite items for this time of year! 


Barefoot Dreams clothing

Anything Barefoot Dreams- their fabric is a DREAM



I've had these for 11 years now and they are still keeping my feet warm and cozy. I love the hard sole, too.



I was gifted this over five years ago and it has held up so well. I love the cable on one side and the sherpa feel on the other.



I have this in two colors and love it! Perfect for a zip up while working out. Runs small, order up a size.



This pullover feels like you're wearing a blanket and comes in great basic colors. Runs TTS.



This hoodie is fun because the outside is INSANELY soft and the inside is a brushed cotton fabric. It's cropped so I recommend sizing up. 



If you're a Costco member, grab these the next time you're there if you have kiddos! High quality and you cannot beat the price. I love shopping Costco for clothing in general- they have really great items!


Anything you can't live without to stay cozy these days? Comment below! 

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Hi!!!

 Y'all, it has been forever and a day since I have blogged!! I've turned off social media for a while, which had become my main form of engagement in the digital world. Since that's off the table currently but I find myself missing writing, sharing inspiration, and sparking conversation..... it's back to the blogosphere!




My last few archived posts were a mix of happy and sad milestones but you'll notice that as I dip my fingers back in the keyboard on here, it's going to be more lighthearted - mostly things that I would likely share on Instagram (but without the blackhole of screen time that would follow for me!). AND! I get to share articles and videos through the blog! Many of you know that I am article obsessed and perhaps you've even received an article or two from me via email. <3


*When they go low, we go high (revisited). You likely know where my vote is going in November, but M.O. speaks to humanity here and not just to a presidential election. She emphasizes what it means to raise an empathetic and compassionate child in a country that doesn't always focus on those values enough. For someone who admits to hating politics, she is as eloquent and convincing as they come. November is right around the corner.





*Also, kicking it back to a good political laugh in case you need it right now.

*For parents that love shopping for their kiddos as much as I do, I discovered Maisonette this summer and there is no turning back. You can thank me later!

*A great article about optimism from The Post's "The Optimist" newsletter, which I highly recommend if you are looking for weekly pick me ups! This piece had me in tears. Such a great reminder to continue to seek out the helpers - and BE one when you can.

*Wild Fable's line at Target has some amazing and super affordable blue light filtering glasses for those of us that will be spending most of our days in front of a screen (if you don't already!)

*Lastly, for local parents- here are some great resources that I've relied on heavily during the pandemic. 

Instagram accounts: @locowithkids - has a ton of family friendly activities and places to visit where it's easy to socially distance. @playgroundsofnova - this is a newer account but it highlights parks in NoVa that check all of the boxes for health, safety, and of course fun right now.

Our Kids- this is a great home base for all things local to do with kids and families. It sorts by date, area, etc. and it really compiles it ALL for you in one place.


Signing off with a song that still gets me every. single. time.

xo Maria

PS. I won't be seeing any comments on FB if you try to link up there, so shoot me an email if you want to keep the conversation going about anything. 

P.P.S. I just had to go in and update my Blogger profile to edit "twenty something year old" to THIRTY SOMETHING YEAR OLD. Time- please slow down!