My Son Asked to be Baptized

    My son doesn't like to be very far away from us. He doesn't spend the night anywhere. He won't stay with a sitter. This is anxiety and autism.

    Recently he actually started to go to youth group at a local church. This was huge because he was getting on a bus at five thirty at night, and getting home at seven. He leaves us for a few hours, and is actually miles away from home. And he learned that he's okay! He's safe! And most of all, he's happy.

My Son Asked to be Baptized

    We got a phone call a few weeks ago from the pastor of the church Liam attends. He asked the pastor to baptize him. I was ecstatic! I wanted to do it when he was a baby, but life got busy. Then came his autism diagnosis, and life got even busier. So it just didn't happen.

    Now, he's turning twelve on Friday, and on Sunday, he will be baptized in front of his family. It was HIS choice. Liam understands fully what it means to be baptized, and he's all excited. Pastor Jason even gave him three options for receiving the holy water. This is huge because autistics have sensory issues, so water can be painful.

    Liam can chose from having a cross symbol made with holy water on his forehead, having the water sprinkled on his head, or being dunked in it. He still hasn't fully decided, though he's leaning more towards the cross. He doesn't like to be splashed (but has no problem with splashing others.) 

A Beautiful Cross

    In honor of his special day, I wanted to get him a beautiful cross to wear. I chose this Brilliant Cross Necklace for him. It came yesterday and it's even more gorgeous in person. Made from 925 sterling silver it's so sparkly! I love that it looks like real wood. It comes with an adjustable chain, to accommodate all sizes. It's sixteen inches, and has an extra two inch extension. 

Gift Wrapped

    This Brilliant Cross Necklace comes in a pretty box for gifting. The box has a nice silver ribbon on it too. It's perfect for gifting because it looks as though it's wrapped. It would make a wonderful Mother's day, or even Father's Day gift for your parents. 

Don't Sweat the Summer Heat

    While it isn't officially summer, the temps feel that way. Don't sweat the heat, and look good while keeping cool.

Don't Sweat the Summer Heat

    I love spring and summer. My favorite outdoor activities are swimming and fishing, and the weather is finally allowing both! However, when I'm not going to be in the water, I don't want to be all sweaty and uncomfortable. I want to keep cool, and still look nice too.

ETCYY Women's Summer Tank Top

    I just got this gorgeous tank top on Amazon, and I'm in love with it. So much so, that I am going to grab one in the other color too! I chose yellow and you can get it in navy blue as well. The top of these tanks are gray and white striped. Made from cotton, they are comfortable, yet breathable. The cotton top isn't so thick that you're going to get all sweaty, but it's thick enough that it's not see through.

    The bottom of this tank top may be my most favorite. It's made of chiffon, and it's so light and airy. It makes this shirt look a little more feminine while also disguising mom belly. So not only is thin and breathable, but it's figure flattering as well. That's a win win in my book! 

Four Sizes to Choose From

    As I said above, you can get this tank top in two colors, and it's available in four sizes too. Choose from Small, Medium, Large, or Extra Large. Since summer is coming, why not grab one of each color? Trust me, you'll be glad you did! Mother's Day is coming, so you can also purchase one or two for you mama as well! 

A Gorgeous Gift for Mom

    With just under two weeks until Mother's Day we want to share another gift idea with you. These gorgeous earrings are sure to put a smile on mom's face!

A Gorgeous Gift for Mom

    I just got my mom this beautiful pair of Rose Gold and Cubic Zirconia earrings. I know she is going to love them! They are so sparkly!! I can't wait to give them to her. Her favorite gold is rose gold, so when I found these earrings I knew she had to have them! Rose gold happens to be the most popular gold finish right now, so if you're not sure if mom likes it, I'm willing to bet that she will. Besides, mom's love us unconditionally, and they love everything we get them. However, they will absolutely adore these stunning earrings.

    The earrings themselves are made from .925 sterling silver, and then coated with beautiful rose gold. Sterling silver is hypoallergenic so those with ear sensitivities have better success when wearing earrings made from them. It also means they won't stain, rust, or oxidize over time. Which means mom will enjoy them for years to come!

A Halo of Beauty

    I love these earrings so much. The center cubic zirconia, is surrounded by a halo of smaller cz stones. It gives these post earrings such an elegant touch. They're simple, yet refined design will never go out of style. Your mom (and mine) will be wearing them with pride! 

Prjewel Factory Outlet

    I found a ton of other gorgeous pieces of jewelry at Prjewel factory outlet. They have an amazing rose gold key necklace, and even a rose gold ring that would be the perfect additions to these earrings. Imagine mom's face when she gets a few pieces of timeless jewelry that she can enjoy each and every day! 

    Prjewel's prices are super affordable, and they're jewelry is breathtakingly beautiful. So whether you get mom just the earrings, or surprise her with all three, she is going to be pleased! 

Gift Ideas for Mom

    Mother's Day will be here before you know it. Do you have a gift idea lined up for mom? If not, now would be a good time to start.

Gift Ideas for Mom

     Is your mom hard to shop for? Does your family neglect to get you the perfect Mother's Day gift each year? Either way, I thought I would compile some ideas. From inexpensive, to all the bells and whistles. Moms deserve to be pampered. (And if you're a mom reading this, then be sure to share it with your kids and husband.) ;)

Free is for Me! 

    For many of us, money is tight. But that doesn't mean you can't spoil mom on her special day. Gather some crayons and paper, and set your kids loose! Have them create her a one of a kind card that she will treasure forever! While they're creating, why don't you make her her favorite breakfast. Let her sleep in without being disrupted by the kids, and then serve her breakfast in bed.

Jewelry

    If mom likes jewelry, then how about this beautiful gift set that's made just for mamas?! It comes with a necklace and a heart shaped, Mom pendant that is adorned with crystal gems. It's so pretty and mom is sure to cherish this loving gift! The chain is eighteen inches, so it's the perfect length for anyone. (The chain can also be adjusted longer or shorter as well.) It also comes with a matching bangle bracelet. 

    She can wear them together, or separately to compliment any outfit. It's the perfect gift for kids to present to their mom. I love mine! I pair my bangle with other silver bangles I have and it looks gorgeous! I think your mom is going to love it! 

Relax with a Massage

    Being a parent is stressful. So if you have the means to do so, a massage for mom would be perfect! Schedule her an appointment for Mother's day, or even a gift certificate so she can choose when she wants to relax. 

    If a massage isn't her thing, then what about a gift certificate for a manicure, pedicure, or both. Summer is coming, which means flip flop weather is on the horizon. Mom can get her toes in check just in time to don her favorite sandals!

Show Mom She's the Bomb

    Mother's Day is coming. Now's the time to start getting mom some gifts. I have an idea that will show her she's the bomb. Literally!

These bath bombs even come nicely wrapped for mom!

Show Mom She's the Bomb

    Bath bombs are becoming so popular, and what better way to show your mom that's she's the bomb! I love this set of six bath bombs. They're small and mighty! These little bombs really pack a punch of essential oils to your bath. They also color the water nicely, but without leaving a nasty ring that mom will hate cleaning!

Give Her the Gift of Relaxation

    These bath bombs are a great way to give mom some time to herself, so she can relax with a nice, hot soak in the tub. Since they include essential oils, they'll give her a therapeutic, spa like experience, right in the comfort of her own home. 

    This set of six bath bombs even comes with two pretty rings to make mom feel extra special. They're one size fits all, so they will fit any finger she chooses!

Sore muscles, Aches, and Illness

    Since these bath bombs include essential oils, they're helpful for aches, pains, and even the common cold. The set of six comes with two bath bombs for the cold or flu, and they contain Eucalyptus oil. Two of them contain orange essential oil which is a natural anti-inflammatory, and anti-depressant, so that's perfect when mom is feeling like crud from aches and pains. The last two bombs include lavender essential oil which is perfect for relaxing and having some time to oneself. 

I Love Them

    It's finally Spring here in Northeastern Pa. The weather has finally gotten warmer, but with it, my allergies are coming back. Last night I took a hot bath and used one of the eucalyptus bath bombs. The steam from the water was potent with the oil, and really helped clear out my sinuses some. The oils also added some softness to my dry skin. I loved it and I know your mom will too!

Raising Autism Awareness Wherever We Go

    Ahh the good ol' days. Or were they? They days when Liam was younger and newly diagnosed. Meltdowns were around every corner. He had to touch EVERYTHING in sight to fulfill his sensory needs. I started only wearing autism awareness clothing because I was so tired of the stares and the comments. I was tired of verbally educating.

Raising Autism Awareness Wherever We Go

     Now that he's older, and "graduated" from virtually every therapy at our disposal, we don't raise as much unwanted awareness. However, we still like to don autism themed clothing. We do so to show our support for fellow autism families. To let another, newly diagnosed family know that, we "get it," we won't judge. To let the world know that it's okay to be different, and to embrace those differences. 

The Coolest Autism Awareness Shirt I've Seen in Years!

    I was on Etsy last week and I came across ArtsyAndInfamous. When I saw their "Dare to Be Yourself," Autism Awareness tee I knew Liam had to have one. First of all, it has skeletons. He loves them. Secondly the autistic one is doing the dab. Liam dabs everywhere, all the time. Not to mention that, daring to be oneself is a lesson that everyone can live by. One we should strive to instill in our children. Because after all, if everyone were comfortable being different, then bullying others may just disappear. (We can hope, right?)

Never a Dull Moment

    Because in an Autism home, there never is a dull moment. This racerback tank top by ArtsyAndInfamous if perfect as well! It too features a dabbing kid, that's decked out in Autism Awareness. 

Mother's day is right around the corner. So for the autism mom in your life, maybe grab her one of ArtsyAndInfamous autism mom tees. There are two specifically designed for moms to choose from. Both are adorably "AuSome!"

    These are just a few of the autism designs from ArtsyAndInfamous. To see more, you have to check out their Etsy shop. They also have a really neat selection of other, non autism tees for every occasion. If you want something custom, they can do that too!

Culinary Couture for the DIY Foodie

    I love to cook and bake. That means having quality kitchen utensils. I recently discovered Culinary Couture, and I'm in love!

Culinary Couture for the DIY Foodie

    If you have a DIY foodie in your life, then you have to check out Culinary Couture. They have a wide selection of products to make your cooking experience more enjoyable. From measuring cups and spoons, to pizza stones, barbecue tools, and so much more. It's one stop shopping for your kitchen!

Sturdy, Well Made Tongs

    Well made and sturdy tongs are a must. Those flimsy ones don't pick up enough food. Also, you want tongs with silicone on them to protect your pots and pans. I just got Culinary Couture's Set of Three Light Blue Kitchen Tongs. I will NEVER use any other tong again!

    They're heavy duty, and very well made. Not only are the ends silicone to protect your pans, but there's also a silicone grip on the handles as well. The end features a silicone covered ring to hang them when not in use. To open the tongs, simply pull the ring outward. To close, push it inward. Easy peasy! The bonus is that they look great too!

    Culinary Couture's Kitchen Tongs are made from Stainless Steel. The top quality silicone will withstand heat up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit! That's far superior than any other tong I have used. Which means I can even use them when I deep fry foods. (Pączki I'm looking at you!)

Three Sizes for All Needs

    The set of three tongs comes with one small which is seven inches. The medium is nine inches long, and the large is twelve inches long. So whether you're cooking in the kitchen, or outside on the grill, you have a set of tongs for every need.

image courtesy of Culinary Couture

Fourteen Colors

    I chose Culinary Couture's Light Blue Set of Three Kitchen Tongs. However, with fourteen colors to choose from, you're sure to find the color you need for your kitchen. They have traditional black, grey, and brown. But they also have pink, green, purple, and more.

I adore my Culinary Couture tongs, and I know you will too. So head to their website, and grab yourself some. Hey, with Mother's Day and Father's Day right around the corner, they would make an amazing gift too!

Be sure to follow Culinary Couture on Facebook

Coordinates of the Heart From Danique

    I've long been searching for just the right piece of jewelry to hold the coordinates of my heart. While I love all jewelry, I'm particularly fond of rings. So I was ecstatic when I found Danique Jewelry and saw her Custom Coordinates Jewelry. With Mother's Day coming, you have to check out her shop!

Coordinates of the Heart from Danique

    I found the ring that was perfect for me at Danique Jewelry. It's a small silver band (but you can choose gold too) and she engraves it with your chosen coordinates. The coordinates of my heart lay on Chincoteague Island in Virginia. It's where my grandparents always vacationed, took us girls, and eventually retired. It's also where my papa was called home. We visit yearly and create more memories with our children, and we know that he's watching from above. (He's probably also pacing because he was always nervous when my boys were in the ocean.)

    Danique Jewelry took my breath away when I opened my ring. My eyes leaked a little, and my heart soared. This dainty and stackable ring is absolutely gorgeous. Each time I look down I am reminded of the beautiful island, and of my sweet papa. I can't thank you enough Irina!

Mother's Day Wouldn't Be a Day Without Mom's

    Show her your love and appreciation with a personalized Mother's Necklace. Whether she's mom to one or many, Danique Jewelry can create her a one of a kind piece. These Engraved Name with Teardrop Birthstone Necklaces are gorgeous. Irina will engrave each child's name, and add each child's birthstone as well.

    You can choose from 925 Sterling Silver, or 18K Vermeil Gold. I normally prefer silver, but I have to say, the gold necklaces are just as breathtaking. I love the flow of the teardrop gemstones. They are so beautiful. 

So Much More From Danique Jewelry

    These are just two examples of the custom, one of kind pieces that you will find at Danique Jewelry. There are so many more necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings to choose from. You can find her shop here, and on Etsy as well. So get shopping for the special mama in your life! I guarantee you she will love any piece you choose for her.

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Reward Her with Relief for Her Tired Eyes with a Heated Eye Mask

    Moms all over often complain of tired, baggy eyes. So this Mother's Day, give her the gift of relief for her eyes with a Heated Eye Mask. I love mine, and I know she will too!

Reward Her with Relief for Her Tired Eyes with a Heated Eye Mask

    As an autism mom, I'm always tired. ALWAYS! You can tell by one glance at my eyes. They're puffy, with nice dark circles around them. I hate it. However, I have found relief with my Heated Eye Mask from Graphene Times.

     It's designed to treat your dry and tired eyes with soothing heat. The far-infrared radiation it creates with the graphene film is very similar to wavelengths created by your body. Which makes it a natural way to relax your peepers.

Helps with Fine Line and Wrinkles

    When you give her the gift of this Heated Eye Mask, you're giving her a spa treatment that she can enjoy daily, right in the comfort of her home. The heated therapy not only helps to rid her of dark circles, but it improves circulation to lessen the look of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Safe and Effective

    Since the Heated Eye Mask mimics the wavelengths created by our bodies, it's safe to use. The mask also has a built in timer. Every time you switch it on, it will work for an hour, and then automatically shut off.

    She can use it to get a better night of sleep, without worry that it will be on all night. It's comfy to wear too, so not only will it block out ambient light in the room, but the heat is an added relaxation bonus.

Great for Headaches! 

    I suffer from headaches almost daily. I also get migraines from time to time, (thankfully not every day thanks to my neurologist,) and this mask has been a God send. Heat therapy is so helpful when you have a headache, whether it's in your eyes or not. The fact that his is a light blocking mask, makes it even better for those times when your head is pounding.

    I seriously love my Heated Eye Mask, and I wouldn't be telling you about it if I didn't. However, let me give you some more information on it, because I know you're like me and want to know more before you buy. 

Key Effects of Far-infrared Physical Therapy:

Vitalizes bio-molecular activation

Analgesic effect

Strengthens immunity function

Regulates autonomic nervous system

Skincare and beauty

Anti-inflammatory effect

Mother's Day Gift Guide

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A Care Package Just For Women

    I had a total hysterectomy and oophorectomy a few years ago. (Best decision of my life!) However, don't count me out! I still have PMS. Yes, you read that right. While everything is gone, I still have to take Estrogen because I'm too young for menopause. So while I don't actually menstruate, I still have a week a month where my mood swings, I will cut someone if I don't get chocolate, and I feel like a turd. Enter The PMS Package. It's a monthly care package to make that week of the month easier on you, and your family. (Because let's face it, we know we lash out on the ones we love most!)

A Care Package Just for Women

    Monthly subscription boxes are taking over the world. They're wonderful and we all love them. However, The PMS Package has cornered the market on catering to women. Menstruation isn't fun, but it's a fact of life. The folks at The PMS Package, want to make it a little bit easier on us women. Each month you or the recipient you choose will feel pretty, pampered, and even more peaceful....period! (<-- see what I did there)

What's Inside?

    The essentials of course! In each box you will get some feminine products, comfort items, and snacks to appease those cravings! It varies each month, so you'll always be surprised when you open your box. I just got one yesterday and inside mine I found some tampons, cozy socks, a phone stand for laying in bed and binging your favorite show, some tasty treats, and a couple products to pamper myself with. (I'll be sharing with my sis, because why not share the love?) Also, even though I don't have periods, I still keep feminine products on hand for my sister, my son's girlfriend, and anyone that may need a pad or tampon.

How Does it Work?

   It's simple really. First choose your plan. You can get a one month, three month, six month, or yearly subscription. (The longer you choose, the more money you'll save.) Next, choose your delivery date. I know our period dates vary due to hormones and stress, but choose the date that most often coincides with the start of your menstruation. Then check out, and sit back and relax. The PMS Package may help you to actually look forward to your period. (I mean, the sooner it comes, the sooner it gets lost....at least until the next month!)

Look at all these goodies to kill the cravings!

The Perfect Gift

    Listen up husbands, boyfriends, and significant others! The PMS Package makes a perfect gift for the woman in your life. Whether it be for Mother's Day, or any day, she will appreciate the thought. She'll also love being pampered during her crappiest time of the month. So stop reading, and head to their website. (Oh, you may want to check her calendar to get an idea of when her PMS Package should be delivered.)

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What I WANT for Mother's Day.....an open letter to my son.

    TRIGGER WARNING: If you have no sense of humor, STOP.READING.NOW....otherwise, carry on....

   I have thought long and hard what I want for "my big day." Now, I am an honest person. I speak what and how I feel when I feel it. So I'm writing this like it is.

   I love my son as much as any mother. He is my miracle. He is the child I was NEVER supposed to have. I cherish EVERYTHING he makes. Everything he draws. I save it ALL. I take pics of it all. I am a bit anal about it. That being said, I do NOT need anything craft wise from you Liam for Mother's Day. (not that I wouldn't cherish it (because I would) but I don't NEED it) Here is a list of what I NEED and what I WANT:

   ♥ I want someone to do the dishes. I don't dirty them all, and I am tired of washing them all.

   ♥ I want you to do the laundry. You dirty more laundry than anyone I know, therefore I think you could take some time, and learn how. You also throw a lot around the house, so while you're at it, pick it up.

   ♥ I want you to clean/feed/water Hudson. It's YOUR rat. Yet I always take care of him.

   ♥ I want you to change the litter box. It's YOUR cat, yet I care for her all the time.

   ♥ I want you to clean the bathroom. Your aim is horrible and I am tired of cleaning up pee. While you're at it, clean the bathroom mirror. You can't seem to brush your teeth without splattering it all over the mirror.

   ♥ Clean the living room. I have never seen someone be able to trash a room so quickly. I am tired of it looking like a hurricane hit. PLEASE clean up your mess, and KEEP it that way. (I know, I am dreaming.)

   ♥ I do NOT want breakfast in bed. I love you sweetie, but I have seen how you make "bed meals."  I don't like salt and pepper on my pb sandwiches. A cup of coffee and quiet time when I get up will be just fine.

   ♥ I want to take a nap. I want to be left alone when I do. Kiss me, close the door and walk away. If you need something, ask your father.

   ♥ For ONE day, I want to take a pee by myself. I don't want you pushing your way in because you forgot you had to pee until I had too. I don't want you banging on the door because you forgot you had to pee until I did. LEAVE. ME. ALONE......Peeing is private, let's leave it that way.

   ♥ I want to take a nice hot bath in peace and quiet. I don't want you banging on the door for me to close the curtain so you can come in to poop. I don't want you coming in with some tragedy that only I can solve. I don't want you deciding you need to have an important conversation with me. LEAVE. ME. ALONE.

  ♥ I would LOVE to lay in bed all day, and watch old Dr. Who episodes. I know you can't do all of the above. So I would be happy if your daddy would do all of that, and you and I can lay in bed and enjoy the Dr. together. ♥

  Bottom line buddy, YOU are my mother's day present. You were born the weekend of Mother's day, and every year, every day, I thank God for you. Mama loves you more than life itself. I know you can't give me or do all of these things, and that's ok. It never hurts to hope..... I love you Liam ♥

                                                                           ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Resting before I become a mama ♥ (date is wrong. 5/11/06)

I will never in all my life, forget how this moment felt ♥

I love you with all of my ♥

You're all that I dreamed and all that I hoped ♥