This holiday season I can honestly say that I had the biggest mindset shift. It took me 7 years to get here but I’m so glad to be in this place in our journey. My expectations were realistic going in to the holidays and that made such a difference. I brought the iPad, didn’t force food Audrey wasn’t comfortable with and didn’t push for her to open gifts this year. It brought a great sense of ease. Although the days still sting a bit, I was able to appreciate Audrey for exactly who she is in this moment. I am beyond grateful for a family who loves hard and helps when they can. Most of all I am feeling so fortunate to have a medically healthy child. Seeing our CASK warriors in and out of the hospital hits hard and I’m wishing them all peace and love through these difficult times. Feeling extra grateful for the simple things. Audrey is non stop and especially during school breaks it’s hard to feel positive when we are taken away from our routine. But we get through it one day and laugh at a time.
This year has been a huge year of growth for me personally. I have met amazing moms across the globe that inspire me daily. The friendships I have made even though it’s mostly through text threads and social media have saved me on the hard days and help celebrate the good days as well.
Some new things Audrey tried this year:
-Her first ride on a bus to a field trip with her class!
-Found a love for cheeseburgers.
-Getting better and more advanced on her AAC device every day!
-Expanded her movie choice selection.
My Goals for the new year:
-Embrace the joy.
-Find more local help that I can train to be with Audrey for occasional babysitting needs.
-Continue to work on myself so I can be the best mom for her.
-Turn my focus onto local advocacy. Our schools, parks and grocery stores need more accommodations. I am hoping to advocate for progression in this area!
We are in the last stage of getting a therapy dog so we may have a new addition to our family in 2023!
And also not so patiently waiting for the referral to go through for Audrey’s very first wheelchair. Her mobility continues to progress slowly but we have noticed her stamina is not quite there. We are hoping that a wheelchair can give her body the rest it needs while still being able to be out and about.
Wishing everyone a healthy start to 2023.
#KickingCASK
Kicking CASK 