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A Letter To Marky On His 17th Birthday

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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!

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DSAGR Winter Events

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

18th Annual Autism Society Central Virginia 5K & Family Fun Day

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The 18th Annual Autism Society Central Virginia 5K & Family Fun Day will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at Stony Point Fashion Park.

This family-friendly event will include on-stage entertainment, a kids zone and fun run, a Resource Fair, food vendors, a competitive 5K, and more!

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

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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”.

 

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Cameron Gallagher Foundation Upcoming Workshops

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Mindful Mondays- register here

Led mindful practice for middle school and high school students.  Held at Steward School’s Bryan Innovation Lab, as well as carefully selected locations throughout RVA to enhance accessibility to more children. Trained CKG Mindfulness coaches and local industry experts lead the practice.

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