Summertime

Sweet Summertime.

A season of cherished memories to be made and fun to be had.

For us, summer is already winding down and drawing to a close. Easygoing schedules at a relaxed pace are ending.

As it quickly passed us by and we’re gearing up for back-to-school, I have some realizations to share.

Summer break doesn’t have to be picture-perfect for it to be perfect for YOUR family.

You are not a bad parent if you didn’t take an extravagant vacation or visit touristy attractions.

You aren’t lacking if you didn’t capture the flawless family beach photo.

Every moment of every day doesn’t have to be filled with thoughtfully planned activities.

Social media is a constant reminder of this ideal box we’re meant to fit into. My family will never fit into any box. We’ve carved out a unique one that’s our very own.

Our life is ruled by routines. Having a child with disabilities lays the plans for sameness and structure.

Overnight stays away from home aren’t an easy task for us. Day trips have become our go-to. A day spent at our state’s aquarium was a bright spot and the highlight of our summer. An environment that wasn’t overstimulating; it was inclusive, sensory-friendly and wheelchair accessible. For once, we planned an excursion that we could all appreciate and participate in. There was no need for our typical dividing and conquering. It was a wonderful adventure for the four of us that I’ll never forget.

When you have a child with disabilities and special healthcare needs, you live in a chronic state of “go” and “rush.” Sometimes, it’s refreshing to just take a beat and breathe.

This was our summer of flexibility and some graceful respite from the hectic routine.

Slower morning starts with less stress,

Longer evenings with extra snuggles and bedtime book reading,

Later wakeups and a little more sleep are unequivocally underrated.

With the unfathomable sweltering heat in our area, staying indoors and blowing bubbles made for hours of glorious entertainment. Ice cream afternoons and record store wandering took the place of humid outdoor recreation.

No matter what your summer looks like, it is ENOUGH. Whether you go or stay, do all the things or skip classic traditions, it will be meaningful. When you spend it in ways that best suit your family, it will be priceless.