Real life beyond the fairytale

Welcome to my corner of the world, straight out of Cleveland, Ohio. Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs you never saw coming. Between managing hidden disabilities and fighting through bureaucracy, every day brings a new adventure.

Raising an autistic child who is now an adult while chasing the illusion of a 'normal' life isn't easy, but it is real. Here, we share honest stories, bitter victories, and plenty of humor to keep us grounded through the chaos.

Latest posts & updates

This is just the beginning.   My goal is to not only tell my story,  but also provide resources for others.  If some of my experiences and story can help anyone else, then I will be happy.   Eventually, I hope to be able to share the newest essays on special needs parenting, self-care with chronic conditions, and finding unexpected moments of joy when nothing goes according to plan. Subscribe or check back frequently for fresh insights.

A little about me...

I was born, isn't that an odd way to begin, we are all born. It was the 70s, a young mom still a teen herself and a dad who was not just older in the navy.  Like most who are born, I didn't come with a manual. I was told that a lot growing up.   We moved,  a lot! That's the military for you... born in Ohio,  but by the time I started kindergarten in California, we had already lived in Virginia,  Wisconsin and Texas before landing in California.   That was the last of living with both parents.   Again it was the 70s, my dad struggled with addiction issues and well let's just call it what it was,  he was a manwhore.  My mom,  tried to focus on raising me while dealing with him and growing up herself.  We left him in California and returned to Ohio.   

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You are not alone in the chaos

Whether you're struggling with diagnosis paperwork, looking for a community that understands, or just need a good laugh today, welcome home.