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Beauty In The Real

I didn’t want to go to the fair today 😜 but my boy did and as his caregiver, he doesn’t get the life he deserves if I don’t give up some of mine. So I gave myself an attitude adjustment, put on my tennis shoes and forked over the $50, and do you know what happened?!?! WE HAD A GREAT TIME! There was a couple D-sightings but he “Mr Collins’d“ those like a champ. The weather was perfect, we found our favorite teacher from elementary school and he did, in fact share his ice cream with me 😍 We needed a WIN this week and 1 perfect hour at the fair was a gift of grace on this mama’s heart 💛.

#beautyinthereal

I didn’t want to go to the fair today 😜 but my boy did and as his caregiver, he doesn’t get the life he deserves if I don’t give up some of mine. So I gave myself an attitude adjustment, put on my tennis shoes and forked over the $50, and do you know what happened?!?! WE HAD A GREAT TIME! There was a couple D-sightings but he “Mr Collins’d“ those like a champ. The weather was perfect, we found our favorite teacher from elementary school and he did, in fact share his ice cream with me 😍 We needed a WIN this week and 1 perfect hour at the fair was a gift of grace on this mama’s heart 💛.

#beautyinthereal

Psalm 119:11
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
#beautyinthereal

Psalm 119:11
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
#beautyinthereal

Sneak peek of my conversation with Beth over at @knowandfollow
God was so faithful to show up in our conversation and I can’t wait to share the whole episode with you. It should be out in a couple days!

Sneak peek of my conversation with Beth over at @knowandfollow
God was so faithful to show up in our conversation and I can’t wait to share the whole episode with you. It should be out in a couple days!

Rough morning and what I am leaning about working through my own feelings on the hard days.
#beautyinthereal #autismparents #learningtolament

Rough morning and what I am leaning about working through my own feelings on the hard days.
#beautyinthereal #autismparents #learningtolament

At least once a week, Jonah will ask to drive by his old elementary school. He likes to reminisce about all his old teachers and some of the activities they did there. We are so thankful to have had so many amazing professionals working with him… And now that he is out of school, we sure do miss having a support team. If you were part of his team or are part of a team for other kids, just know that you are not forgotten….

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsfamily #autism #spedteacher

At least once a week, Jonah will ask to drive by his old elementary school. He likes to reminisce about all his old teachers and some of the activities they did there. We are so thankful to have had so many amazing professionals working with him… And now that he is out of school, we sure do miss having a support team. If you were part of his team or are part of a team for other kids, just know that you are not forgotten….

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsfamily #autism #spedteacher

The look of confusion on the faces of people driving by as Jonah waves like he is their long lost bestie…. They often tentatively put up their hand and shyly wave as if they are not sure they should.

So this is your PSA… we greatly appreciate those of you who smile and wave, whether you are driving by, passing us on a bike at Woodland Trails or just walking through our neighborhood….

Your confused kindness is noted and so much appreciated 😍

#beautyinthereal #autistic #specialneedsfamily

The look of confusion on the faces of people driving by as Jonah waves like he is their long lost bestie…. They often tentatively put up their hand and shyly wave as if they are not sure they should.

So this is your PSA… we greatly appreciate those of you who smile and wave, whether you are driving by, passing us on a bike at Woodland Trails or just walking through our neighborhood….

Your confused kindness is noted and so much appreciated 😍

#beautyinthereal #autistic #specialneedsfamily

Feeling stuck? Many of you messaged me about much you resonated with these words.

Whether you are a caregiver or someone in need of care… the feelings that come when your life is dictated by something that you never chose can be overwhelming and sometimes really sad. I see you… but more importantly, God sees you. 💛

Feeling stuck? Many of you messaged me about much you resonated with these words.

Whether you are a caregiver or someone in need of care… the feelings that come when your life is dictated by something that you never chose can be overwhelming and sometimes really sad. I see you… but more importantly, God sees you. 💛

We’ve all heard this beautiful promise from the Bible...

“Do not be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”. Philippians 4:6-7

If the peace came from the answered prayer or a change in circumstances, then it would be a peace that I could understand. But a peace beyond my understanding only comes when the answers haven’t come, the trial doesn’t make sense and the story is not the one I would have written for myself.

The only way my heart finds this kind of peace is by fully surrendering and trusting in the God who’s understanding no one can fathom (Isaiah 4:28), who’s ways are not my ways (Isaiah 55:8) and who promises to work all things out for good (Romans 8:28)

As I continue this daily process of surrender, my eyes are opened to see beauty in the real life moments and messes and I find rest for my soul.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things....
And the God of peace
will be with you.
Philippians 4:8-9

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsmom

We’ve all heard this beautiful promise from the Bible...

“Do not be anxious for anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”. Philippians 4:6-7

If the peace came from the answered prayer or a change in circumstances, then it would be a peace that I could understand. But a peace beyond my understanding only comes when the answers haven’t come, the trial doesn’t make sense and the story is not the one I would have written for myself.

The only way my heart finds this kind of peace is by fully surrendering and trusting in the God who’s understanding no one can fathom (Isaiah 4:28), who’s ways are not my ways (Isaiah 55:8) and who promises to work all things out for good (Romans 8:28)

As I continue this daily process of surrender, my eyes are opened to see beauty in the real life moments and messes and I find rest for my soul.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things....
And the God of peace
will be with you.
Philippians 4:8-9

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsmom

I might step on some toes with this one 😳 But it’s my perspective for you to consider.

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsfamily #autismfamily

I might step on some toes with this one 😳 But it’s my perspective for you to consider.

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsfamily #autismfamily

Here’s the highlight reel of our weekend at Lakeside Cottage. It was beautiful and we are thankful but just remember that this is just the highlight reel 😜 and it’s true what they say… “don’t compare your real life to someone else’s highlights”.
What you don’t see is the sleepless nights, the tension of OCD and autism and relationships that are strained by new environments and unspoken expectations… Because going on vacation doesn’t mean we leave our challenges behind us. Like most of you we bring them all along with us but we go anyway and we are always glad we did!

If you are ever in our corner or the world, check out @lundeenlakerentals for a beautiful spot where real life moments can turn into a highlight reel!!! #beautyinthereal #sometimesautismlookslikethis #specialneedsmom #specialneedsfamily #haveautismwilltravel

Here’s the highlight reel of our weekend at Lakeside Cottage. It was beautiful and we are thankful but just remember that this is just the highlight reel 😜 and it’s true what they say… “don’t compare your real life to someone else’s highlights”.
What you don’t see is the sleepless nights, the tension of OCD and autism and relationships that are strained by new environments and unspoken expectations… Because going on vacation doesn’t mean we leave our challenges behind us. Like most of you we bring them all along with us but we go anyway and we are always glad we did!

If you are ever in our corner or the world, check out @lundeenlakerentals for a beautiful spot where real life moments can turn into a highlight reel!!! #beautyinthereal #sometimesautismlookslikethis #specialneedsmom #specialneedsfamily #haveautismwilltravel

Day one of our Lakeside Cottage adventure. If you know Jonah you know that he is always planning a trip somewhere but this time we kept if closer to home.
@lundeenlakerentals is just an hour from our home but it feels like the break from real life that we all needed.

Every detail is beautiful and well thought out… we are so excited to have 3 days of family time… including our favorite board games, movies and lots of lake time!

Thank you, Allie & Ryan for creating this little oasis in the middle of these Minnesota fields and farms. We are so happy to be here. 💛

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsfamily #sometimesautismlookslikethis

Day one of our Lakeside Cottage adventure. If you know Jonah you know that he is always planning a trip somewhere but this time we kept if closer to home.
@lundeenlakerentals is just an hour from our home but it feels like the break from real life that we all needed.

Every detail is beautiful and well thought out… we are so excited to have 3 days of family time… including our favorite board games, movies and lots of lake time!

Thank you, Allie & Ryan for creating this little oasis in the middle of these Minnesota fields and farms. We are so happy to be here. 💛

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsfamily #sometimesautismlookslikethis

The Jonah translation Bible 😆
“Don’t tear each other down”…
That’s a good word 🙌🏻
Love you all!
#beautyinthereal

The Jonah translation Bible 😆
“Don’t tear each other down”…
That’s a good word 🙌🏻
Love you all!
#beautyinthereal

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all that you do and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

#beautyinthereal

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all that you do and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

#beautyinthereal

Explaining the Disney aversions for all of you who are new and answering your questions on meds, hobbies, Spellers and more. Thanks for joining me.

Explaining the Disney aversions for all of you who are new and answering your questions on meds, hobbies, Spellers and more. Thanks for joining me.

Took some new photos of my handsome boy… they make me feel emotional… so much that isn’t said and a picture is not worth the thousands of words that I wish he could say. But also, his smile lights up my heart and I am so thankful that he is made in the image of God and that his one beautiful life is being used for so much good.

Thank you @madein_his_image for the t-shirt for Jonah. 💛
#sometimesautismlookslikethis
#beautyinthereal #autism #specialneedsfamily #madeinhisimage

Took some new photos of my handsome boy… they make me feel emotional… so much that isn’t said and a picture is not worth the thousands of words that I wish he could say. But also, his smile lights up my heart and I am so thankful that he is made in the image of God and that his one beautiful life is being used for so much good.

Thank you @madein_his_image for the t-shirt for Jonah. 💛
#sometimesautismlookslikethis
#beautyinthereal #autism #specialneedsfamily #madeinhisimage

It looked so easy from the safety of the sidelines. But when I stepped out on that wall I realized that perspective is everything.

Kind of like so many things in life.
So let’s not assume we understand someone else’s wall until we’ve walked it ourselves.
And even then, the shoes you wear, the strength of your muscles and your past experience all affects how you feel when you step on that ledge. Just be kind and cheer everyone on, even if that same walk was easy for you.

#specialneedsmom #autismmom #beautyinthereal

It looked so easy from the safety of the sidelines. But when I stepped out on that wall I realized that perspective is everything.

Kind of like so many things in life.
So let’s not assume we understand someone else’s wall until we’ve walked it ourselves.
And even then, the shoes you wear, the strength of your muscles and your past experience all affects how you feel when you step on that ledge. Just be kind and cheer everyone on, even if that same walk was easy for you.

#specialneedsmom #autismmom #beautyinthereal

#beautyinthereal #autism #specialneedsmom

#beautyinthereal #autism #specialneedsmom

We chatted about this in stories this morning and some of you wanted a saved version. I hope these scriptures and slides help us all to take every thought and every screen captive and to edit our passions and be more disciplined with our time so that we can focus on what really matters.

#beautyinthereal #girlreadyourbible #womenoftheword

We chatted about this in stories this morning and some of you wanted a saved version. I hope these scriptures and slides help us all to take every thought and every screen captive and to edit our passions and be more disciplined with our time so that we can focus on what really matters.

#beautyinthereal #girlreadyourbible #womenoftheword

23 YEARS of Bouncing on THIS rebounder and today I signed up to get an affiliate link with them because I have proven the quality of the NEEDAK products!

My mom purchased this rebounder for me when I was pregnant with Jonah, 23 years ago. It has never sat in a corner, unused and unloved but quite the opposite, It has been used and abused and bounced on by the entire family for 23 years! About once a year we wd-40 the springs when they start to squeak but other than that, it has never required any maintenance.

We use it for exercising, lymphatic stimulation, nervous system regulation, circulation & even homeschool.... I used to make the kids jump on it while reciting math and spelling, just to bring the body mind connection into it. But my favorite way to use it is worship. I play it loud and jump and sing and pray and it lights up my soul with joy.

They will run you about $400 and I know that is a bit more than the cheap ones you will find in other places but for us, it has clearly been a worthwhile investment. (Thanks Mom!)

If you comment “jump” nothing will happen 😜 cause I refuse to employ automatic replies but I’ve got the link in my linktree or you can message me and I will send it to you.
Using my link and the coupon code BEAUTYINTHEREAL will give you a free Spring Cover ($32 value) and it also gives me a small commission that is greatly appreciated.

#beautyinthereal #affilatemarketing

23 YEARS of Bouncing on THIS rebounder and today I signed up to get an affiliate link with them because I have proven the quality of the NEEDAK products!

My mom purchased this rebounder for me when I was pregnant with Jonah, 23 years ago. It has never sat in a corner, unused and unloved but quite the opposite, It has been used and abused and bounced on by the entire family for 23 years! About once a year we wd-40 the springs when they start to squeak but other than that, it has never required any maintenance.

We use it for exercising, lymphatic stimulation, nervous system regulation, circulation & even homeschool.... I used to make the kids jump on it while reciting math and spelling, just to bring the body mind connection into it. But my favorite way to use it is worship. I play it loud and jump and sing and pray and it lights up my soul with joy.

They will run you about $400 and I know that is a bit more than the cheap ones you will find in other places but for us, it has clearly been a worthwhile investment. (Thanks Mom!)

If you comment “jump” nothing will happen 😜 cause I refuse to employ automatic replies but I’ve got the link in my linktree or you can message me and I will send it to you.
Using my link and the coupon code BEAUTYINTHEREAL will give you a free Spring Cover ($32 value) and it also gives me a small commission that is greatly appreciated.

#beautyinthereal #affilatemarketing

I am not a member of this church... in fact, I’m not even Catholic, But as a part of the Body of Christ, the message that this Parish is communicating to families is beautiful and priceless.

I am a Mom to a disabled son, and sitting still and quiet has never been his special gifting. As an adult now, he struggles to be in crowds so church on Sunday has become too difficult for him. Instead, we find a beautiful, quiet, empty church on a weekday and go to sit and pray. We are thankful for our Catholic neighbors who have created just such a place and have welcomed him to come and find peace in their church.

While sitting in the pews one day, I noticed this card placed next to the hymnals. Reading it, I was so touched at these words of welcome and encouragement for families with young children.

No matter your denomination or theology... I am pretty sure this is what Jesus meant when he said “Let the little children come unto me.”
I am sharing it with you here so that we can all be inspired by this example and maybe learn to express the same sentiment to children, wherever you worship.

#beautyinthereal

I am not a member of this church... in fact, I’m not even Catholic, But as a part of the Body of Christ, the message that this Parish is communicating to families is beautiful and priceless.

I am a Mom to a disabled son, and sitting still and quiet has never been his special gifting. As an adult now, he struggles to be in crowds so church on Sunday has become too difficult for him. Instead, we find a beautiful, quiet, empty church on a weekday and go to sit and pray. We are thankful for our Catholic neighbors who have created just such a place and have welcomed him to come and find peace in their church.

While sitting in the pews one day, I noticed this card placed next to the hymnals. Reading it, I was so touched at these words of welcome and encouragement for families with young children.

No matter your denomination or theology... I am pretty sure this is what Jesus meant when he said “Let the little children come unto me.”
I am sharing it with you here so that we can all be inspired by this example and maybe learn to express the same sentiment to children, wherever you worship.

#beautyinthereal

My son loves church… but not church on Sunday with its crowds and noise and so much unpredictability for his mind….

Jonah is 23 and autistic and he grew up in Protestant churches where he loved the people and the music and the donuts in lobby church. But in recent years, too many tiggers emerged and church on Sunday became too difficult for him to navigate.

So last year, he and dad started visiting Catholic Churches during the week… they are usually open for people who want to come and pray and Jonah has found that he loves the quiet reverence of God’s house much more on a Monday than on a Sunday.

We take him every week and it is amazing the way he seems to find rest for his mind and his soul in that space. He will hardly speak and when he does it is just to wisper “stay longer”… and so we do.

#beautyinthereal

My son loves church… but not church on Sunday with its crowds and noise and so much unpredictability for his mind….

Jonah is 23 and autistic and he grew up in Protestant churches where he loved the people and the music and the donuts in lobby church. But in recent years, too many tiggers emerged and church on Sunday became too difficult for him to navigate.

So last year, he and dad started visiting Catholic Churches during the week… they are usually open for people who want to come and pray and Jonah has found that he loves the quiet reverence of God’s house much more on a Monday than on a Sunday.

We take him every week and it is amazing the way he seems to find rest for his mind and his soul in that space. He will hardly speak and when he does it is just to wisper “stay longer”… and so we do.

#beautyinthereal

And yes, my juicer is broken 😩

This all happened while attempting to write the part about being “Hard pressed on every side but not crushed” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 🙄

Book should be out by 2035 🤣
Thanks for your patience!!!
#beautyinthereal

And yes, my juicer is broken 😩

This all happened while attempting to write the part about being “Hard pressed on every side but not crushed” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 🙄

Book should be out by 2035 🤣
Thanks for your patience!!!
#beautyinthereal

Jonah’s love for the Bible blesses me everyday. So often he will speak words that are exactly what I need to hear and I love that, even as I am serving as his full time caregiver, God is using him to care for me as well!!!

#beautyinthereal

Jonah’s love for the Bible blesses me everyday. So often he will speak words that are exactly what I need to hear and I love that, even as I am serving as his full time caregiver, God is using him to care for me as well!!!

#beautyinthereal

I know the summers can feel so long!
If you are a mom to a child with special-needs, one who thrives with schedules and consistency, then summers might find you tired and frustrated with the lack of routines and support. I’ve been there. I spent many summers complaining about how short summer programs were for Special Ed and how the boredom and regression I saw in my son seemed so unfair.

My son is now 23 and home full time, 24/7 year round and It has given me a new perspective on all those summers that I spent feeling discontent. Here are a few tips I offer from this new perspective:

1. Learning to be ok with discomfort and boredom is an important skill for our kids to learn... and it won’t hurt us to get better at it too. Life is going to be full of those moments and summers are a great time to work through them as a family. Embrace the slow days and learn to find joy in them. Our kids will feel that and might find a little joy of their own.

2. Create your own routines, ones that align with your family values. Our kids spend 9 months at school, being taught and influenced by others and we are thankful for the skills they bring to the team... But what you have to offer your kids is just as important. No one else will ever love and serve them the way that you can. Ask God, everyday, to give you strength and joy in that calling.

3. Stop complaining about it in front of your kids. They hear your heart, even if they don’t fully understand your words. You can help them be excited for a new school year without letting on that you can’t wait for them to go.

I am so thankful for all those years that we had a team of educators to support us. More so now that we don’t have any of those supports. And now that Jonah is home full time, I am so thankful for summers because there is so much more that we can do to fill the time during the warmer months.

#beautyinthereal #autism #specialneedsfamily

I know the summers can feel so long!
If you are a mom to a child with special-needs, one who thrives with schedules and consistency, then summers might find you tired and frustrated with the lack of routines and support. I’ve been there. I spent many summers complaining about how short summer programs were for Special Ed and how the boredom and regression I saw in my son seemed so unfair.

My son is now 23 and home full time, 24/7 year round and It has given me a new perspective on all those summers that I spent feeling discontent. Here are a few tips I offer from this new perspective:

1. Learning to be ok with discomfort and boredom is an important skill for our kids to learn... and it won’t hurt us to get better at it too. Life is going to be full of those moments and summers are a great time to work through them as a family. Embrace the slow days and learn to find joy in them. Our kids will feel that and might find a little joy of their own.

2. Create your own routines, ones that align with your family values. Our kids spend 9 months at school, being taught and influenced by others and we are thankful for the skills they bring to the team... But what you have to offer your kids is just as important. No one else will ever love and serve them the way that you can. Ask God, everyday, to give you strength and joy in that calling.

3. Stop complaining about it in front of your kids. They hear your heart, even if they don’t fully understand your words. You can help them be excited for a new school year without letting on that you can’t wait for them to go.

I am so thankful for all those years that we had a team of educators to support us. More so now that we don’t have any of those supports. And now that Jonah is home full time, I am so thankful for summers because there is so much more that we can do to fill the time during the warmer months.

#beautyinthereal #autism #specialneedsfamily

LIVE Q&A… the one where we talk about meds, media, elopement & a few other things. Thanks for being here. 😘

LIVE Q&A… the one where we talk about meds, media, elopement & a few other things. Thanks for being here. 😘

We use a Chlorophyll Concentrate for the green color and it gives the eggs some veggie like nutrition 😍 but mostly he just loves the song and loving the song makes him want to eat this every day!
Also, he really was happy here even though he looks so serious! 😜

#autisticadult #profoundautism #specialneedsparenting #beautyinthereal

We use a Chlorophyll Concentrate for the green color and it gives the eggs some veggie like nutrition 😍 but mostly he just loves the song and loving the song makes him want to eat this every day!
Also, he really was happy here even though he looks so serious! 😜

#autisticadult #profoundautism #specialneedsparenting #beautyinthereal

The 23rd Psalm says, “Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want...”

Can you even imagine???

We live in a world that constantly tells us to want.

Want more, want less.... It all comes out the same as we are conditioned to never be quite content with where we are and what we have.

We see it everyday on the little screen in our hand as the ever changing algorithm holds onto us with one more click, one more story, one more reel,.... telling us that we would be happier with more money or less weight or more clothes or less wrinkles. Maybe for you its a bigger garden or more chickens or an instagram worthy vacation.

Some of these are good things but my heart has learned that to be in a constant state of “wanting” is exhausting and it robs me of the rest that The Good Shepherd as called me to.

But how do we rest from the wanting?

Only by fixing our eyes on Jesus who knows all our needs and promises to meet them according to the riches that he posses in glory. (Phil 4:19)

Only by resting in the strong arms of the Good Shepherd and finding contentment there because he is with me and his presence is enough. Enough to fill the empty spaces that all the wanting leaves behind.

I am ready for rest.

I am ready to take a break from the constant swiping and watching life go by at the speed of reels. If you too, are ready for your soul to be restored, join me in a week long social media fast where we will endeavor to replace the screen time with a massive infusion of God’s Word as we listen to the entire New Testament in 7 days.

I did this “re-set” last year and it truly did restore my soul. This time I am inviting you to join me.

Comment “Restore My Soul” and I will send you a link to my recent blog post with all the details and a sign up link.

The 23rd Psalm says, “Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want...”

Can you even imagine???

We live in a world that constantly tells us to want.

Want more, want less.... It all comes out the same as we are conditioned to never be quite content with where we are and what we have.

We see it everyday on the little screen in our hand as the ever changing algorithm holds onto us with one more click, one more story, one more reel,.... telling us that we would be happier with more money or less weight or more clothes or less wrinkles. Maybe for you its a bigger garden or more chickens or an instagram worthy vacation.

Some of these are good things but my heart has learned that to be in a constant state of “wanting” is exhausting and it robs me of the rest that The Good Shepherd as called me to.

But how do we rest from the wanting?

Only by fixing our eyes on Jesus who knows all our needs and promises to meet them according to the riches that he posses in glory. (Phil 4:19)

Only by resting in the strong arms of the Good Shepherd and finding contentment there because he is with me and his presence is enough. Enough to fill the empty spaces that all the wanting leaves behind.

I am ready for rest.

I am ready to take a break from the constant swiping and watching life go by at the speed of reels. If you too, are ready for your soul to be restored, join me in a week long social media fast where we will endeavor to replace the screen time with a massive infusion of God’s Word as we listen to the entire New Testament in 7 days.

I did this “re-set” last year and it truly did restore my soul. This time I am inviting you to join me.

Comment “Restore My Soul” and I will send you a link to my recent blog post with all the details and a sign up link.

LIVE Q&A
We talked about how today no, connecting with our other kids, understanding God’s goodness and sovereignty in disability, ABA and a few other random topics. Thanks for joining me. 😘

LIVE Q&A
We talked about how today no, connecting with our other kids, understanding God’s goodness and sovereignty in disability, ABA and a few other random topics. Thanks for joining me. 😘

What to do when life doesn’t feel “blessed”. I’ve been there and this is what I’ve learned. 👆➡️

#beautyinthereal

What to do when life doesn’t feel “blessed”. I’ve been there and this is what I’ve learned. 👆➡️

#beautyinthereal

Q&A Live💛 Thanks for hanging out with me today.

Q&A Live💛 Thanks for hanging out with me today.

This is one of Jonah’s favorite songs and every time he plays it, I imagine it is full of the words he would say to me if he could. I listen and it inspires me to be that kind of mom, one who loves and accepts him the way he is and helps him to love himself a little more. If your kid struggles to tell you how they really feel, try this song on and see if it fits.
Happy Mother’s Day to all our Instagram Aunties, the ones who encourage us while living through their own daily struggles.

#beautyinthereal

This is one of Jonah’s favorite songs and every time he plays it, I imagine it is full of the words he would say to me if he could. I listen and it inspires me to be that kind of mom, one who loves and accepts him the way he is and helps him to love himself a little more. If your kid struggles to tell you how they really feel, try this song on and see if it fits.
Happy Mother’s Day to all our Instagram Aunties, the ones who encourage us while living through their own daily struggles.

#beautyinthereal

I am not a woman who would have ever let a man hit her...

And yet I find myself in a relationship where I am controlled, threatened, my things are taken and destroyed... and yes, sometimes he hits me.... But I won’t ever leave him. I can’t.

I can’t because he is my son, he is 23 and has profound autism.

This is the side of motherhood that you don’t find celebrated on a card or talked about at church on Sunday. And this is the side of autism that no one really wants to see.

And yet this is where I live and there are days that the trauma of living in an abusive relationship mingles with the intense love of a mother who desperately wants to help her son. The need to somehow reconcile these two truths can feel overwhelming.

On hard days, I have to remind myself that he isn’t giving me a hard time, he is having a hard time.

I am not his victim, we are co-victims to the dysregulation that comes with his disability.

I need to be the lighthouse in his storm, even if that means he crashes his ship against me in an effort to find safety.

The natural inclination to run from danger and protect myself is in conflict with the urge to care for and protect my hurting child.

It is a conflict that won’t be solved in my life anytime soon but it does need to be talked about.
I am just one mom who loves her son and I want to share the beauty in it all, but I am also willing to talk about the hard parts so that we can all remember that we are not alone.

I am not a woman who would have ever let a man hit her...

And yet I find myself in a relationship where I am controlled, threatened, my things are taken and destroyed... and yes, sometimes he hits me.... But I won’t ever leave him. I can’t.

I can’t because he is my son, he is 23 and has profound autism.

This is the side of motherhood that you don’t find celebrated on a card or talked about at church on Sunday. And this is the side of autism that no one really wants to see.

And yet this is where I live and there are days that the trauma of living in an abusive relationship mingles with the intense love of a mother who desperately wants to help her son. The need to somehow reconcile these two truths can feel overwhelming.

On hard days, I have to remind myself that he isn’t giving me a hard time, he is having a hard time.

I am not his victim, we are co-victims to the dysregulation that comes with his disability.

I need to be the lighthouse in his storm, even if that means he crashes his ship against me in an effort to find safety.

The natural inclination to run from danger and protect myself is in conflict with the urge to care for and protect my hurting child.

It is a conflict that won’t be solved in my life anytime soon but it does need to be talked about.
I am just one mom who loves her son and I want to share the beauty in it all, but I am also willing to talk about the hard parts so that we can all remember that we are not alone.

It’s me… I am that mom today.
Come along as I preach to myself.

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsmom

It’s me… I am that mom today.
Come along as I preach to myself.

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsmom

Live Q&A just for the fun of it! Love you guys… thanks for being here and for all your questions and encouragement. 💛💛💛

Live Q&A just for the fun of it! Love you guys… thanks for being here and for all your questions and encouragement. 💛💛💛

Emphasis added by Mr. Jonah…
Because sometimes we need an inverse truth to drive home the lesson.

So do me a favor… add your favorite quote or Bible verse about kindness in the comments and then get out there and build each other up… or at the very least stop tearing others down 😩😜😘
#beautyinthereal

Emphasis added by Mr. Jonah…
Because sometimes we need an inverse truth to drive home the lesson.

So do me a favor… add your favorite quote or Bible verse about kindness in the comments and then get out there and build each other up… or at the very least stop tearing others down 😩😜😘
#beautyinthereal

Jonah does Spell To Communicate with his speech therapist twice a week. I won’t go into a full explanation here because Google will give you a much more thorough answer but here is a glimpse into the process. She reads a lesson and then Jonah’s spells out the answers to the questions. It has taught me a few things…
1. Jonah is listening even when it seems like he isn’t.
2. He is smart and can learn and grow in amazing ways.

If you are talking in front of your kids, thinking that they don’t understand what you are saying anyway…. I would seriously rethink that! They probably hear and understand much more than we give them credit for. That is the biggest thing that this process has taught me.

#sometimesautismlookslikethis #beautyinthereal

Jonah does Spell To Communicate with his speech therapist twice a week. I won’t go into a full explanation here because Google will give you a much more thorough answer but here is a glimpse into the process. She reads a lesson and then Jonah’s spells out the answers to the questions. It has taught me a few things…
1. Jonah is listening even when it seems like he isn’t.
2. He is smart and can learn and grow in amazing ways.

If you are talking in front of your kids, thinking that they don’t understand what you are saying anyway…. I would seriously rethink that! They probably hear and understand much more than we give them credit for. That is the biggest thing that this process has taught me.

#sometimesautismlookslikethis #beautyinthereal

For the caregiver who feels isolated and unseen this Easter Week…

#beautyinthereal #caregiving #specialneedsmom

For the caregiver who feels isolated and unseen this Easter Week…

#beautyinthereal #caregiving #specialneedsmom

Your ability or disability does not make this verse any more or less true! So whether you are a caregiver or one in need of care, you were created for such a time as this and God has a good purpose for your life.

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsfamily

Your ability or disability does not make this verse any more or less true! So whether you are a caregiver or one in need of care, you were created for such a time as this and God has a good purpose for your life.

#beautyinthereal #specialneedsfamily

I woke up this morning and felt my own desperate need for the work of God in my heart. These verses came to mind and led my prayers as I seek to serve the needs of those that God has assigned to me. Whatever your assignment is today, I hope these verses encourage you to do the same.

#beautyinthereal
#caregiving #specialneedsmom

I woke up this morning and felt my own desperate need for the work of God in my heart. These verses came to mind and led my prayers as I seek to serve the needs of those that God has assigned to me. Whatever your assignment is today, I hope these verses encourage you to do the same.

#beautyinthereal
#caregiving #specialneedsmom

We have all heard the saying “Don’t compare your real life with someone else’s highlight reel... But just in case you are tempted, let me give you a glimpse into our real life.

What you see in these photos is Jonah enjoying his little trip to Nebaraska but what you don’t see is the stress over which route we would take, the struggle of trying to sleep in a room that is not his own, 3 am anxiety meds, throwing up in the ice bucket, trigger sightings that almost derailed the whole trip, parents who are tired and stressed and having moments of marital strife.

Jonah loves an adventure to new places and we love to take him but it is not really a vacation! We bring all the work of caregiving with us and Jonah brings all the stress and anxiety that he struggles with daily, no matter what state we are in.

These are the challenges we face whether we are at home or traveling and we just figure we might as well make some fun memories in between the messes and meltdowns. So we keep planning these little adventures because it breaks the monotony and gives us something to look forward to... And then it always feels so good to be back home!

#somtimesautismlookslikethis
#beautyinthereal

We have all heard the saying “Don’t compare your real life with someone else’s highlight reel... But just in case you are tempted, let me give you a glimpse into our real life.

What you see in these photos is Jonah enjoying his little trip to Nebaraska but what you don’t see is the stress over which route we would take, the struggle of trying to sleep in a room that is not his own, 3 am anxiety meds, throwing up in the ice bucket, trigger sightings that almost derailed the whole trip, parents who are tired and stressed and having moments of marital strife.

Jonah loves an adventure to new places and we love to take him but it is not really a vacation! We bring all the work of caregiving with us and Jonah brings all the stress and anxiety that he struggles with daily, no matter what state we are in.

These are the challenges we face whether we are at home or traveling and we just figure we might as well make some fun memories in between the messes and meltdowns. So we keep planning these little adventures because it breaks the monotony and gives us something to look forward to... And then it always feels so good to be back home!

#somtimesautismlookslikethis
#beautyinthereal

Here is Jonah’s song pick for you today along with the highlights from day 2 of his big Nebraska Adventure.
We got to do some photos with our lovely @emilyclaire.co and then Jonah and dad got to visit an incredibly beautiful, empty church while mom had more time with my sweet Em 💛. Then it was dinner and a walk to the trains and ping pong and one more swim!
Heading home tomorrow and Jonah picked the route…. He wants to go the “slowest” way home 😍 cause I think the long car ride with the loud music is his favorite part of our road trips!

Here is Jonah’s song pick for you today along with the highlights from day 2 of his big Nebraska Adventure.
We got to do some photos with our lovely @emilyclaire.co and then Jonah and dad got to visit an incredibly beautiful, empty church while mom had more time with my sweet Em 💛. Then it was dinner and a walk to the trains and ping pong and one more swim!
Heading home tomorrow and Jonah picked the route…. He wants to go the “slowest” way home 😍 cause I think the long car ride with the loud music is his favorite part of our road trips!

Spreading Autism Awareness through 3 states today!
Jonah LOVES road trips. He picks the snacks and the music and this time we even let him pick the destination. He has been asking to go to Lincoln Nebraska for a few years now… we used to drive through every summer but never stayed here and it’s been on his bucket list.
We practiced the “Mr Collins” when we stopped for lunch and at dinner we educated the manager on why Jonah should be allowed to order off the kids menu. Jonah learned that if you eat to many of the snacks you picked then you get a stomach ache 😩.
Our entire goal for this trip is to let him be a 23 year old young man who is choosing what he wants to do for his mini vacation. We will keep you posted on what else he chooses. 😍

Spreading Autism Awareness through 3 states today!
Jonah LOVES road trips. He picks the snacks and the music and this time we even let him pick the destination. He has been asking to go to Lincoln Nebraska for a few years now… we used to drive through every summer but never stayed here and it’s been on his bucket list.
We practiced the “Mr Collins” when we stopped for lunch and at dinner we educated the manager on why Jonah should be allowed to order off the kids menu. Jonah learned that if you eat to many of the snacks you picked then you get a stomach ache 😩.
Our entire goal for this trip is to let him be a 23 year old young man who is choosing what he wants to do for his mini vacation. We will keep you posted on what else he chooses. 😍

I have lines and if I don’t deliver them correctly… things can unravel quickly. So we have the same conversation over and over and he needs constant verbal assurance from me. It can be exhausting to do this hour after hour…. For him and for me.

I am thankful for his voice but still long for silence sometime. 😜

I’m not looking for advice and don’t need suggestions for detox, drugs, diets or deliverance 😜 We are working with our own professionals so we’re good… Just sharing a glimpse of our life so that if you live this life too, you might not feel so alone… and if you don’t you might understand us a little better.

I have lines and if I don’t deliver them correctly… things can unravel quickly. So we have the same conversation over and over and he needs constant verbal assurance from me. It can be exhausting to do this hour after hour…. For him and for me.

I am thankful for his voice but still long for silence sometime. 😜

I’m not looking for advice and don’t need suggestions for detox, drugs, diets or deliverance 😜 We are working with our own professionals so we’re good… Just sharing a glimpse of our life so that if you live this life too, you might not feel so alone… and if you don’t you might understand us a little better.

“Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy and blessed is the one who hears it”.... It is right there in the first few verses of the book of Revelation.

That word “Blessed” is used for many other things throughout the Bible.
Blessed are the peacemakers.
Blessed are the merciful.
Blessed are those who mourn.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.

And while the rest of those “blessed” phrases are ones I have sought to implement... this one from Revelation somehow had not made my list yet.

But I recently started a Bible Study from my favorite author Jen Wilkin and reading the book of Revelations aloud is on the checklist. Since the one who hears it is blessed as well, I figured Jonah could be my listener. I can’t even explain the emotions that rise in my heart as I read these words to my son.

These words are not a magic spell and I am not looking for some miraculous effect as the words spill forth but I do know that the Word of God is powerful and effective and will never come back void. So I will read the book of Revelations out loud to my son because his ability to communicate might be limited but his Spirit is not disabled and God is able to meet him right where he is.

“Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy and blessed is the one who hears it”.... It is right there in the first few verses of the book of Revelation.

That word “Blessed” is used for many other things throughout the Bible.
Blessed are the peacemakers.
Blessed are the merciful.
Blessed are those who mourn.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.

And while the rest of those “blessed” phrases are ones I have sought to implement... this one from Revelation somehow had not made my list yet.

But I recently started a Bible Study from my favorite author Jen Wilkin and reading the book of Revelations aloud is on the checklist. Since the one who hears it is blessed as well, I figured Jonah could be my listener. I can’t even explain the emotions that rise in my heart as I read these words to my son.

These words are not a magic spell and I am not looking for some miraculous effect as the words spill forth but I do know that the Word of God is powerful and effective and will never come back void. So I will read the book of Revelations out loud to my son because his ability to communicate might be limited but his Spirit is not disabled and God is able to meet him right where he is.

You get to feel all the things… and sometimes you even get to say them out loud 😳

I love my son with my whole being and I will give up any and everything in an effort to support his needs and help him to have moments of joy and peace.

But I also cry and grieve over all the things that I have had to sacrifice for his care. I often feel lonely and isolated and frustrated over the things I have to miss out on, all the while knowing that I am divinely appointed to be his mom.

If you are feeling the tug of these two truths today, just know that you are not alone….

You get to feel all the things… and sometimes you even get to say them out loud 😳

I love my son with my whole being and I will give up any and everything in an effort to support his needs and help him to have moments of joy and peace.

But I also cry and grieve over all the things that I have had to sacrifice for his care. I often feel lonely and isolated and frustrated over the things I have to miss out on, all the while knowing that I am divinely appointed to be his mom.

If you are feeling the tug of these two truths today, just know that you are not alone….

We will be forever grateful for this experience and can’t wait to share it with all of you! In the meantime, Jonah will keep planning trips to small motels in the middle of nowhere 😜 and hopefully we can meet some of you along the way!
Where shall we go next?

We will be forever grateful for this experience and can’t wait to share it with all of you! In the meantime, Jonah will keep planning trips to small motels in the middle of nowhere 😜 and hopefully we can meet some of you along the way!
Where shall we go next?

Hi Friends, welcome to our little corner of Instagram!

I’m Rohnda (the spelling 😜 I know!).

Here, I share the real-life joys and trials of full-time caregiving for my adult son, Jonah, who has Profound Autism. He loves travel, 80s music, and Bible verses—and if you’re following along, you’re part of our “Instagram Aunties”!

But life isn’t always music and positive thoughts. Some days are really hard. I’m so grateful for my husband, David and for the sustaining faith in Jesus that helps us persevere, even when we don’t understand the pain.

This space isn’t about chasing followers or algorithms—I’m just here to honor God by loving and serving my son, whose life is precious in His sight. I hope to encourage you to do the same, in whatever calling God has given you—on the good days and the hard ones.

I’m not a voice for the Autism World, nor do I find my identity as an “Autism Mom.” I’m simply an expert in one autistic person, whom I love with all my heart. Our journey may look different from yours, so I won’t give advice—but I will encourage you to find strength in the Lord, trusting Him to provide in the hard seasons.

You’ll find us most days in IG Stories. I read every comment and message, even if I can’t always respond. Your encouragement means more than I can say—just don’t send me Reels (I won’t watch them)!

Drop an intro if you’d like, or just be a silent follower—no pressure here. And if I’m not your cup of tea, you know where the door is. God bless you on the way out!

We don’t serve algorithms, but we do serve God and each other. I hope this space reflects that. ❤️

Hi Friends, welcome to our little corner of Instagram!

I’m Rohnda (the spelling 😜 I know!).

Here, I share the real-life joys and trials of full-time caregiving for my adult son, Jonah, who has Profound Autism. He loves travel, 80s music, and Bible verses—and if you’re following along, you’re part of our “Instagram Aunties”!

But life isn’t always music and positive thoughts. Some days are really hard. I’m so grateful for my husband, David and for the sustaining faith in Jesus that helps us persevere, even when we don’t understand the pain.

This space isn’t about chasing followers or algorithms—I’m just here to honor God by loving and serving my son, whose life is precious in His sight. I hope to encourage you to do the same, in whatever calling God has given you—on the good days and the hard ones.

I’m not a voice for the Autism World, nor do I find my identity as an “Autism Mom.” I’m simply an expert in one autistic person, whom I love with all my heart. Our journey may look different from yours, so I won’t give advice—but I will encourage you to find strength in the Lord, trusting Him to provide in the hard seasons.

You’ll find us most days in IG Stories. I read every comment and message, even if I can’t always respond. Your encouragement means more than I can say—just don’t send me Reels (I won’t watch them)!

Drop an intro if you’d like, or just be a silent follower—no pressure here. And if I’m not your cup of tea, you know where the door is. God bless you on the way out!

We don’t serve algorithms, but we do serve God and each other. I hope this space reflects that. ❤️

Sometimes, autism looks like this...
It’s not always a superpower or just a different way of seeing the world. Sometimes, it’s messes and meltdowns and dysregulation that leads to destruction. Sometimes, it’s tears, confusion, and obsessive compulsive behaviors that logic alone can’t soothe.

In our home, we’ve lived at both ends of the spectrum—the beauty and the hardship, the joy and the struggle. I love sharing the bright moments, but if those feel out of reach for you right now, please know this: you are not alone, and you are not failing. Even in the chaos, you are growing. Even in the storm, you are learning. And no matter how lost you feel, you are never without hope.

Sometimes, autism looks like this...
It’s not always a superpower or just a different way of seeing the world. Sometimes, it’s messes and meltdowns and dysregulation that leads to destruction. Sometimes, it’s tears, confusion, and obsessive compulsive behaviors that logic alone can’t soothe.

In our home, we’ve lived at both ends of the spectrum—the beauty and the hardship, the joy and the struggle. I love sharing the bright moments, but if those feel out of reach for you right now, please know this: you are not alone, and you are not failing. Even in the chaos, you are growing. Even in the storm, you are learning. And no matter how lost you feel, you are never without hope.

Learning to regulate my own emotions and nervous system is one of the best parenting skills I�’ve ever learned and it is especially important for our autistic kiddos.

#beautyinthereal #autismmom

Learning to regulate my own emotions and nervous system is one of the best parenting skills I’ve ever learned and it is especially important for our autistic kiddos.

#beautyinthereal #autismmom

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