Lillybug & family

Finally sharing a few moments from Lilly’s amazing 14th birthday trip! She planned it using her AAC device, choosing where she wanted to go and what she wanted to do. This girl was READY!

Then just about everything changed. Long airport waits, shuffled activities, a canceled boat trip, even her favorite restaurant being closed. We prepared her, updated schedules, and talked through each change. She handled so much so well while making sure we knew what she wanted, what she didn’t, and what wasn’t working. We’d also discovered an ear infection just two days before the trip, so she was still in quite a bit of pain!

I’m so proud of her. Changes aren’t easy for her, and I know how much effort all of this took. Watching her adapt, speak up for herself, and still have SO much fun was pretty amazing. She keeps showing me how much she can do, and I loved getting to celebrate her in the place she chose, doing so many things she loves. ❤️

There’s no way to fit all the awesome moments into one post, but here are a few favorites. I’ll share some more in stories too!

.

#nonspeaking #autistic #birthday