Carissa Garabedian, Author at KnowDifferent.net

A Letter To Marky On His 17th Birthday

January 24, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

Dear Marky,

Today you turn 17. I cannot believe it. I truly do not know how the time has gone by so quickly. I also wish with all my might that I could slow it all down. The future scares me. I don’t think it scares you, you continue to live with the ability to love, be honest and see the beauty in all around us.

February App Of The Month- Coding For Kids & Brainbop Movie

January 23, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

Best Beginner Coding App for Kids

Lightbot: Code Hour introduces kids of all ages to the basic concepts of coding and the logic that computer programmers use to write code — all without having to actually code! Instead, the app has kids get Lightbot through different pathways by using functions commonly found in code.

Things I’m Lovin’ – Some Affordable Ideas For Valentine’s Day! February 2020

January 22, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

Guys, every so often a gadget comes my way that makes me giddy! I have one this month – it is my new fave! You know I am working on my reading goal this year and I tend to do more of my reading in bed, at night. I do not always read on my Kindle and I don’t like to have a light on when my hubby is sleeping, so.. now I have this.. a book light that wraps around my neck, is super light and works so well! I LOVE IT!

Cookin’ With Carissa- Sausage, Bean & Kale Soup

January 22, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

It’s been cold enough for soup! I love soup but my husband only likes them if it is super cold out.

I made this one and he said it was. my best yet! HA! It was yummy, hearty and healthy!

CJ’s Thumbs Up Ball

January 21, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

It’s time, once again, for CJ’s Thumbs Up Ball presented by Dominion Energy.

We will be back at 23 Sesame Street in Richmond and will start earlier (3:00 PM)!

Dress up fancy or as you favorite character.

DSAGR Winter Events

January 20, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

Looking for things to do in January? Come join us at these events. RSVP using RSVP@dsagr.org

17 Gifts I’ve Gotten From My Son As He Turns 17

January 15, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

Often, my writings focus on the areas I struggle with, or my areas of concern with raising our son who has Autism, Today, I am going to share some of the things I am can celebrate. This does not mean that my concern or worries are gone, just that, in this journey, I also have many moments that make me smile and teach me.

It is important to remember that all of our children, with any diagnosis, have many strengths and teach us every day. Getting that diagnosis is the starting point that helps to determine the path that will best help and then we learn that the path will change regularly.

Marky is turning 17 next week and I want to celebrate gifts he gives me and all that are lucky enough to know him.

Please Note- these “gifts” are all things I am learning, it does not mean I have mastered them nor does it mean that I don’t have setbacks, but I am working hard on applying them and reminding myself of them.

1. I am a better person. I have found inner strength I never knew I had and although I do not always know what to do, I know I will figure it out.

2. I am more patient. I take the time to think about how things may impact him, others and myself .

3. I have a much better perspective . I can see things more clearly.

4. I have found strength and a voice to be his advocate. I never thought I could or would stand up in ways I have had to and I am sure in ways I have yet to experience.

5. Through his purity and honesty, I have found the ability to see more good in others.

6. I have learned to not compete or compare. We all have our own path, no two are alike and we will all get there in our own time.

7. I have learned to set limits. Not only for him, but for me as well.

8. With Marky, everything can be celebrated. I have learned to celebrate the little things. It makes for smiles and a full heart.

9. I have learned to give myself a break. There is a lot of emotional stress and it is ok to take a break.

10. I have learned compassion, and boy do we need more of that. Marky sees everyone the same way , there are no differences.

11. I can easily say I am sorry. It is ok to be wrong and there is no shame in that. I also can forgive others more easily.

12. I have learned simplicity.

13. Marky is content with life, regardless of the circumstances. This continues to help me see more joy.

14. I am more accepting of who people are.

15. Struggles make me stronger.

16. I have learned not to take things for granted .

17. I embrace what makes him unique. It may be dancing in Target or starting to take pants down before the rest room.. all of these things no longer create stress for me. He needs me, I am here for him and that is that!

Every day Marky reminds me that anything is possible , we all have to try our best and his smile and joy will continue to be “my why”.

GalaxyCon Richmond is Coming & We Have A Coupon Code

January 14, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

GalaxyCon Richmond is More Than a Comic Con! It’s a 3-Day FESTIVAL OF FANDOM with celebrities, creators, voice actors, cosplayers, entertainers, fan groups, gamers, panelists, streamers, wrestlers, and PEOPLE LIKE YOU!

January Ausome Movie: The Iron Giant

January 13, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

Ausome Movies is a monthly free sensory friendly film series for children with special sensory needs and their families. Call 804-401-7007 ext 210 to reserve your space.

This month’s Ausome Movie is The Iron Giant!

The Ladybug Fund Winetasting & Silent Auction

January 13, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

Join us as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Ladybug Fund Winetasting & Silent Auction on Friday, April 24, 2020.

Enjoy fine European and West Coast wines and a variety of culinary delights by Mosaic that pair nicely with our first-rate wine selections. Craft beer will be on tap from Midnight Brewery as well as live Jazz by John Conley. Our silent auction includes art, jewelry and sports outings along with other unique items and experiences.