How Has Jess Progressed with Daily Living Skills

[@karencristobal4999]

It’s like raising a 7th grader forever. Scream. Mad respect.

[@daniellaricciis]

It’s so easy for people, behind a keyboard, to cast judgment on things they know nothing about. You show small pieces of your days and some people probably forget or lose sight of that you don’t show a whole day and the daily challenges, emotions, and work that goes into teaching an adult with the various needs that she has. You are doing an excellent job. She is loved, and does what she can.

[@susanbrown6458]

I think it most often from a place of concern and misunderstanding. If you don't have people in your circle with disabilities, you may not understand all of the complexities or how it's not a one-size-fits-all approach

[@Dana-xu9lu]

Does Jess ever get punished for being mean and acting out towards care givers.

[@Dana-xu9lu]

As in does she get reprimanded for doing as such

[@lindasansone3345]

Yes ♥️

[@MA-zg2pz]

@@Dana-xu9lu It’s good to distinguish between punish and natural consequences ( ie: don’t put on shoes, don’t get to leave the house. Or hit therapist, they do not return). Punishment is for criminals or situations of the like.

[@rhondalight3302]

If people will watch the video of ALL Jessica's disabilities, they would see that does SO MUCH every single day that would bring me to my knees if I had all the struggles and physical limitations that she has to deal with. And YOU my friend, are an AMAZING woman, mother and caregiver and even though I don't have a personal connection to Autism with a friend or family member, finding your page has helped me in not only recognizing Autism in my community but has also helped lead me in how to respond or offer help in situations where previously I would have ignorantly rolled my eyes and went about my day without thought of what someone else may be going thru. THANK YOU !!!

[@courtneybeeson1753]

My daughter Mary is 8 and when I watch Jessica I have often wondered " What has it taken to get to where she is?". Thank you for sharing, I am in the middle of the endless therapies that go well until they don't. It is so important and so helpful to know that when things stop working it is not a failure. And that being overwhelmed isn't a weakness, but something we all deal with . Work, and household, and our typical children balanced with all the extra needs of our autistic children its a lot.

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you so much for your response. Responses like this encourage to me to keep sharing our story.

[@karrifohey7848]

It has been so helpful. Thank you.

[@shericlawson689]

Yes, on the videos it looks so easy ❤️ you're doing great mom

[@cynthiahinkle8615]

I'm glad you have support, I was a caregiver for a young man who was autistic, and it was a never ending job to get him through the day. Sometimes I'd feel like him and I accomplished something. Other days not so much. I admire you and your other children for loving Jess , and giving her a life she needs to succeed.

[@tinastivers6771]

I have a 36 ye old daughter with CP, depression, sensory issues and a history of aggressive verbal and physical acting out. She too can be sweet, funny and charismatic. I was a single mom and our story is very similar to yours. I relate to te fact that people perceive her to be spoiled and not as independent as she could be. She lives in a group home within 4 blocks from me and has blossomed there with structure and consistency. I was so burned out and it was affecting my parenting. You are an awesome mother and mentor. At the end of the day, I accept that I have done my very best, as have you. The relationship that you have with your parents, bad daddy and Hannah is so lovely! Hang in there. I watch every video and love them as do so many others!

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you! ❤️

[@wendykingsbury3367]

Darling Val, why are u explaining anything? U r her mother, u know whats best for her, your doing a great job, Stop allowing people to steal your joy, you do a great job with Jess, delete and block those who have nothing to say that's nice,they are only bullies. Stay 😊happy an know we love you an that your amazing.💝

[@saskia964]

I 100% agree Val knows best and owes nobody any explanation. But I do very much appreciate her taking the time to explain and my hope is it helps others who are feeling judged. 💕

[@elainefaubert332]

She is doing this to help others with same situation. It’s nice to know you’re not alone. That’s why she’s doing it.🥰

[@kristytyler217]

Absolutely !

[@jillianjo-e9y]

What a great video! You always explain things so well. I have to admit I was one who wondered why she doesn't get told no or why she can't share toys. This video makes me understand how wrong it is for me to question things like that. I'm so sorry if I ever commented anything regarding this. ( I don't think I have thank goodness) You and your family do an amazing job with her. I enjoy the videos so much. Thank you for sharing.

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Wendy, I appreciate your support. 💕 I am explaining to help others who are in similar situations. Many don’t have the words to explain it to others. I’m also explaining to help educate outsiders on why their judgements are misplaced.

[@debschuster9980]

Val, you’re an amazing mom for Jess! God Bless you and don’t forget to be kind to yourself!

[@vanessacolaiuta8405]

It's so helpful to know your not alone, this life isn't for everyone and we work so hard and hear so much about what we should be doing from people who aren't in our homes every day.

[@Freespiritmystic]

I recently found your videos and I want you to know how much your videos have helped me to feel understood and supported. My son is autistic, with cortical visual impairment, and intellectual disability. You’re such a beautiful soul, you and your children. When I watch Jess I see so much of my son. Seeing how your other children interact with Jess is so beautiful. When I hear you speak it’s like someone is voicing everything I go through and everything I feel for my child/children. Thank you so much for everything that you do. Many blessings to you and your family.

[@taylorg2742]

Thank you for being so open and sharing. I hope you feel a lot of support from this community, we love your family!

[@tammymurphy2499]

Val, just watching you I think you’re amazing Mom. I can tell that some days you’re very tired . You do awesome job and I pray for you and your family everyday. You juggle a house hold and take care of Jess and you spread yourself so thin and I’m so sorry. Jess is amazing and beautiful young lady and you are too. Love and prayers

[@katharineharrison9091]

I see her as an incredible human.

[@bbylua]

Yes, my family and a lot of others try to give me advice on how to parent my child. My daughter almost 7. She has ASD, ADHD and ODD. I know that as time goes on, the comments from outsiders will get worse, about her and me. And my response to all the job comments, I just say Honey, this IS my job.

[@catchyname5403]

It’s so easy for folks to feel like they could do better or tell you how things should be done. I don’t understand why ppl feel so at ease with making these comments and suggestions to someone who lives it and has more than likely tried everything and is doing what works for them. Keep sticking up for yourself and your way of getting through life the way that best suits your family. 🌻 Edit: typos

[@annagitana1]

Me either. It’s bizarre how people casually give advice about other families. Especially complex families.

[@mystical7146]

I am a mom of 3 I just came across your posts on Facebook There are no disabilities with my children and I have absolutely no idea about it I just find you to be an amazing mom and watching Jess makes me realize how life is special so thank you for sharing

[@Shaping_Serenity]

❤️

[@deefletcher1775]

Thank you for sharing. Your videos are amazing, and I adore your family. You're doing an amazing job, and it shows every time Jessica smiles. Bless you all.

[@boneyjean]

I have to tell you that I recently was at my Cancer Center for my bi-annual follow up, and a woman who I suspect was on the spectrum in some way, sat down next to me with her aunt I think. She said hi to me and me being the very personable person that I am, said hi back. She complimented me on something I had on, and so I complimented her on her shirt. From that point on, we went into a wonderful conversation that was so fun for everyone in the room, per the feedback I got after she was called into her appointment, and when her caregiver got up with her to walk her in, she looked back to me and mouthed "Thank you." It was such a simple thing to talk to her and no different to me at least than talking to any other stranger that I tend to make conversation with. But I thought of Jessica the whole time we were conversing because this woman was just SO happy to tell me about her day and all kinds of things, and I basically just repeat back the same questions to her that she had asked me. It made for such a memorable moment for me, and I would bet other. One woman asked me if I was a teacher after she left which I thought was odd. I am just a human with a huge compassionate heart and Jess has taught me a thing or two!

[@cherylallen-churchill7334]

I have so much respect and admiration for you. The love, patience and care you show Jessica is amazing. I love Jess, but you inspire me to be a more understanding and compassionate human being. Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us in a truly authentic and honest way. *C*

[@jkmotorcyclegloryroads532]

It’s obvious how intelligent and thoughtful you are; your clear and thorough explanations of the concrete and the abstract… the easy to understand and the difficult. I just want to say how much I enjoy listening to your thoughts. Thank you very much for the gift of your time and energy!

[@MA-zg2pz]

I am in awe of how you mother, all that you have done! You are amazing.

[@robynmotion119]

I am a DSW (developmental services worker) who works with people with disabilities. I love watching your videos. I learn a lot from watching your videos. You are doing amazing. It is never easy teaching basic life skills. It is unfortunate that people openly judge without realizing that you don't post everything that goes on in your life. We just do the best that we can do with what we can at the time.

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you, Robyn.

[@janetscott5252]

Just so much admiration, hugs & love Val! Your 'team' is spectacular & doing all that's possible to give Jess the best life possible! She's a beautiful unique child of God! Love you all & keep 'ya in my prayers 💕🙏💕

[@Shaping_Serenity]

💕 Thank you!

[@kathythomas4514]

How sweet of u yo do this video. It had to be hard to do.,(emotional,).I love Jess and your family. My prayers are with you.

[@elizabethkelly9899]

Val, clearly, you have been a focused and attentive mother. You've worked to help Jess and Madison and Hannah be the best they can be. Madison and Hannah are successful and brilliant. Jess is wonderful and is doing so well. In every video, I can see the bond you have with her, and she is the best Jess possible. Those who question you do not understand the issues Jess has. Thank you for sharing and inspiring!! I pray you know how brilliant you are!!! Much love! 💘

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you

[@stephaniejlee2010]

Val, this is probably my most favorite video you’ve done to date!!! I love love love the real and honest info, the perspective you help see when I otherwise wouldn’t have seen it that way, I love your devotion to Jess and her overall well being and care, and I love that you seem so sure and confident in your stance, as you well should be! Nobody knows Jess or your household and family like you do and they never will. Who are we to tell you what is a contribution to your family and household? Everybody brings something to the table and it’s not for anybody else to say what’s right or wrong. You know what works for you and yours and you are doing it and then some!

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you, Stephanie! ❤️

[@JoeyC.Kelley]

In my opinion, I think you are doing a wonderful job as a mother. It takes a very special person to raise a child with any disability, and you were one of the very lucky few to be chosen for the job.❤

[@cullenscornernotmymainchan8190]

Your strength and patience is absolutely mind blowing. You are an amazing mother and caregiver. My prayers are with you, Jess Hannah, Marlow, Bad Daddy, Nonnie and Granddad. Don’t forget to take time for yourself. God bless you!

[@sandyhenke862]

Marlow is wonderful with Jess. Best way to learn is to make it fun, Marlow does that! And yes mam, you need a break to take care of your mental and physical well being!!! Don’t let outsider’s perception get to you! You are all doing a great job with Jess! You don’t owe anybody an explanation!!! Keep it up, Team Jess!!!❤️

[@karingilfoy2104]

You are such a gift to Jessica, she is so very lucky to have you for a Mom🥰🥰🥰🥰🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@saskia964]

Val, you are an extraordinary person. An extraordinary ordinary person. Thank you for sharing your lives so courageously and bringing laughs AND education. 💜

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thanks, sis!

[@Rachel57294]

Hello Saskia, I hear your name mentioned quite a bit and I just wanted to say hello. 👋👋 I'm a little new to the family but caught up fairly quick as in watching a few videos I found Val, Jessica, Hannah, and Marlow to be such incredible ladies I watched a good portion of videos within a couple of days. 😃 Hope your Sunday is a "Good One". Yup, Yup, Yup, ❤ Tootsie

[@saskia964]

@@Rachel57294 hey hey hey 👋🏻 Welcome to the #goodones fam! ❤️

[@GailMcRoy-q2h]

I have many people in my life that have special needs and I completely get it about the "spoiling" way of thinking. You keep doing what is best for you guys!

[@lauraevantilla]

Thank you for the gentle, but urgent, reminder to “please re-think that.” I like that phrasing and I think I can use it/ meditate on it. You’re right, parenting/caregiving in family systems with disabilities really is SO hard. Finding “solutions” or deciding on steps for making progress is complex. It hurts when others try and make it seem like it is straightforward or that it only requires more effort. Thank you for the honest storytelling you are doing! It is so useful to me (and I hope/try to share it with my loved ones).

[@Gardendreamsforme]

You and your family are the very best. Please don’t let anyone who’s never walked a second in your shoes make you feel less than. You’re wonderful and important

[@biancaflippen8572]

Val you do an amazing job at taking care of Jess! I don’t know anyone else that can do just as you do as good as you! The thing is you know your child you know the needs Jess needs you know what she can and can not do. Some people just may never experience the struggles you go through daily! You teach me daily on watching you guys vloggs that I hope one day I will be able to use what you have taught me just by watching these ! Jess has a wonderful family and caregiver but I still can see it’s can be struggling at times just because I used to help take care of my granny! That was the first I ever had to really take care of a loved one and miss this so much but one day I hope I can have children and or adopt! I would love to be the best mom I could just like you do everyday ! You are an inspiration to me ! Jess is such an amazing I feel like I already know her and you guys without even meeting you all! Y’all are amazing yes I know you go through struggles which I don’t know why people think y’all don’t they I guess never been in these shoes and they trying to talk it and not walk it! Maybe one day Jess will become independent in someway like her shower but if not the thing I love about you Val you already know and accept it and the patience you have is amazing but also I know it can grow thin! BUT YOU NEVER GIVE UP AND I LOVE LOVE LOVE THAT! So many people in this world today are having to suffer because someone has gave up on them and they can’t turn no where! It is sad to see that in the world ! Jess is amazing person just as she is even though she has disabilities! Some people with disabilities in this world are scared of the world because of what people may think of them! Jess shows me no fear in that what so ever and I think that’s unique ! Y’all are like family to me already ! Glad I got to see this video this morning as I woke up!

[@kellylynn730]

What a great birthday party!!! So many cool gifts! Happy birthday J!!! ❤❤

[@ritaroebuck486]

You explain everything so great…so eye opening. Thank you. You’re a huge blessing. God bless you and your family.

[@colleenflynn5646]

You’re a genuine true loving mama to Jess. You are doing the absolute best that you can. You’ve raised her to be a beautiful person whom everyone adores. Spoil the heck outta her! People just don’t know what it’s like to be in your shoes. You shouldn’t have to explain. But you did a great job explaining on this video. You’ve got a beautiful family and we love watching ya’ll! ❤️

[@lindametcalf9169]

AMEN! ❤

[@MLALA-nu5pq]

Honestly I just started watching u not long ago and I had no idea Jess was your daughter. I swore u were sisters!!! You look amazing and so young. You inspire me as I look to adopt a little one who is autistic and non verbal. He is 7 and I hope things work out and we get to meet him soon. Keep up the great work and I will be watching a lot of videos to get some pointers for sure.

[@susanberry3676]

Thank you for sharing ! I am ahmazed how you seem so 'together' .. God Bless !

[@alysiahayes2709]

I have eight kids. Your love and patience inspires me.

[@jowatson5904]

You, your family and Marlow are amazing. Jess is so loved and gives so much love❤

[@laurasimpson7650]

Bravo, Mama....for all the things! We see you. We hear you. We luv u! 🤗

[@lazlolind]

You just seem like an awesome human! Single mom that works too hard. Who loves her kids and never stops. With gentle hands and the heart of a fighter.. you’re a survivor! 💞

[@terilouder8711]

Thank you for a thoughtful explanation of so many aspects of your loving and challenging life. We all need to learn from each other. ❤

[@littlemonkeys4903]

Ramble on Val! Educate us. You’re a HERO FOR SURE♥️

[@darlahenson2734]

Val your a great Mom/Caregiver hold your head high an know you did a Great Job with Jess

[@theresaburns2873]

You do what's best in your situation. Your right, no one knows unless they live the same life.

[@margaretcannalley5891]

I worked in an elementary school with multiple disability students for many years. I totally understand what challenges you go through with Jess. I was injured at school and couldn’t return but I miss it so much. I think you are amazing with Jess and it brings me great joy to part of your journey. Thank you for sharing.❤️

[@lovekkmom2]

You are amazing, Val! I think people do not ever consider what it’s like to “walk in someone else’s shoes.” Keep doing what’s best for you, Jess and your family. ♥️

[@janielouschafer8023]

Very much appreciate this video Val. You are doing a fantastic job!! I like how you bring it down to reality here. I feel encouraged by you.

[@Tres21]

My mother with Dementia lives with us. I totally get this whole video. I am a singer songwriter and I do enjoy sharing videos of me and Mom. Everyone adores my Mother. It lifts people up and I would never post anything to embarrass my Mom, but Life is Life. Some videos do show her Dementia, but I’m hoping it helps someone and their Life or Lifts someone’s spirits.

[@paulinehawkins2207]

Thank you. I’ve always thought you do an amazing job with Jess. It’s complicated I know. Take care of yourself. Xx

[@kel70]

Yes I'm still listening 😊..... no comments or judgment, just wanting to send some love and hugs to YOU today. 🥰

[@janejones1797]

I appreciate you sharing your lives with your viewers. And for taking time to explain what parenting a special needs child entails.

[@dorisjacques5791]

I follow your page but came across this older video today! You are a wonderful mom and it shows by the way you take care of all of your family! You are doing an Awesome job!❤

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you so much!

[@chrissydonais743]

Val your are such a wondeful Momma 😊And have raised sunshine Jess in such a amazing way!! You have so much strenght and positivity its inspiring. You are one strong Momma. Keep being AMAZING Val sending you much love ❤

[@angelajackson8029]

Val I am still listening.... ❤ I'm a Mum & an occupational therapist living in England & I think your amazing . Thank you for sharing. X

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@amylockard621]

The chore chart/to-do list sounds like a good idea, adding in some gentle routine things sounds good.

[@sherylbrown6943]

Thank you so much Val.🥰🥰

[@somedaywithamy]

I am the mom and caretaker of my beautiful special needs daughter too. You bring validation to this mommas heart and mind. It's not easy, most people don't understand, but we do our best. Thank you for sharing your lives with us. 💖 I mirror your sentiment, yes my lil person is spoiled (I like to say well cared for) but I wouldn't have it any other way.

[@jessicamcc7422]

Totally get this!! Thank you for articulating this so well. Empathy is appreciated when our reality is so different than others.

[@elainefaubert332]

Very very good episode of explanation. I loved it!

[@rachaelbutler9501]

I'm relatively new to Jess and your family. I'd like to say that one of the first things I noticed while watching is how patient you (and everyone) are with Jess. I know how I've been while raising my neuro-typical children. If I just do it for them it's faster and easier. That's been a struggle for me! I think you're all doing a wonderful job! Thanks for sharing!

[@britneybevelry914]

You’ve made it Val. Every popular KZbin for social media person who is gaining a lot of popularity makes a video on things people comment on that bothered them. I’m proud of your progress with the channel. I have disabilities but don’t need a caregiver most of the time lol. You’re such a great mom. And your right. We’re only seeing minutes in videos. And mostly only good moments. People need to be more understanding of what your and jess’s life is like. Great video 🙂🙂🙂🙂 -Britney

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you!

[@debbiedavidson988]

Val, YOU are a 👑 Queen!!!❤🙏 YOU are wonderful!! Love you Momma!!!!

[@Shaping_Serenity]

❤️

[@BenKlassen1]

Unimaginably difficult situation. Thanks for sharing.

[@thelegendsof3958]

You show me so many different positive things while watching your videos. It would take to long mama. You keep spoiling that precious gift from God. 🥰😍😀

[@cathylampe5274]

I love your family - you provide so much enjoyment!

[@dncharms1]

I am just in tears! I feel like you are speaking something that I’ve written. Our daughter is 29, has sotos syndrome which involves gross and fine motor skills, learning delays and overall delays, and I literally could have written what you just said. I had a friend say to me, “why don’t you just teach her how to wash her hair?” Wow, there’s a thought, I should just teach her!!! Yeah, like I haven’t been doing that for 20+ years?!?! This really spoke to me and I appreciate your honesty and real life view of what our lives are like with adults with disabilities. Thank you, thank you, thank you!! Marissa just got on the DD waiver so now we’ll be paid to care for her at home starting tomorrow so it’s a whole new journey but I’m hopeful it might bring some help for us as well!!!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@Shaping_Serenity]

“Why don’t you just…” I don’t know how many times I’ve used that as an example of people who haven’t a clue giving advice. I’ve also had a close friend start questions like that multiple times. When that happens, I usually offer for that person to take over the training. 😊 Thank you for sharing. It helps me to know others out there completely get it.

[@deedeenuss6725]

@@Shaping_Serenity Oh, I get it!! I wish we lived closer together, I would love to go to coffee with you sometime!!! What a mom session that would be! Haha!!

[@stephanienoriega2936]

You're a good one, loving your daughter the way she needs to be loved. It's not for any of us here to tell you HOW to do that. We may have questions, we may offer well intended suggestions, but we are not the ones who share daily life with Jess. Thanks for letting us in and for letting us learn. I hope the insights you give will help us be better people.

[@karrifohey7848]

So true...it is not easy to explain. Man, the things you share with me really resonate.

[@km-ultra]

Marlowe appears to be such a soft, gentle & warm woman. Every time I see her in your videos, I wish she was my friend. I'm happy that you found such a good one & I hope she sticks around for a long time!

[@VaLVaLaxw]

Thanks again for teaching & sharing.

[@parmentier1984]

I wish I could like this more. Your family appreciates you and the time you are putting in and that's all that matters.

[@wendydlugos5729]

You are all Warriors, in your own right💗💗💗

[@jessicaeaston3773]

My nephew has spina bifida and is also autistic. Multiple diagnosis complicate things in a way other people don’t understand. Thank you for sharing your experiences!

[@VictoriaT47]

You’re an amazing person. God bless you.

[@kathiepriest7656]

You are a amazing mother! Don’t ever let anyone question your ability or how you may do things! You know what is best and always have your family as number 1!!!!!!!!

[@ginnyloohoo5932]

I appreciate you sharing your view on this. You have done a great job explaining to the viewers. I am a Coordinator with my local county and assist individuals with disabilities and their staff. I totally get what you are saying. And it’s so very important to keep staff that can be trusted and keep a safe relationship with everyone involved. You’re doing a great job mama.

[@lisahudson2102]

Well I can only ditto what everyone else has said. You are an absolutely amazing and awesome Mama. ❤️❤️ Jess is definitely blessed to have you.

[@eilidhcampbell7894]

Another great video Val. Thank you. That's right where we are with independent living skills x

[@Tracy-dq6mk]

You were not rambling. 😁 My dearest wish for you is to enjoy these moments in your life. My heart wants you to tell yourself you have done the last 37 odd years beautifully and it’s time to allow yourself some freedoms you so deserve my sweet friend! ❤️❤️❤️

[@victoriaryanlpcpc8075]

I applaud you for the wonderful job that you are doing with Jessica! You have so much patience ( probably not always) and I know that must be difficult. You are a great mom! Please don’t worry about any negative comments, bc they will never know until they walk in your shoes!❤️

[@marywilliamson1260]

Great Education Val...you are amazing..I appreciate you.🥰

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you!

[@heidiely3243]

Big, big, big giant virtual hugs, Val. I know that was hard. I love how hard you love.

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you! 💕💕💕

[@yvonnepoe9926]

Best video ever , you are a awesome Mom, I get so disgusted at these people who think they have a right to judge, maybe someone should judge that person.

[@auntemmyd1604]

Oh Val you are such a great Mother please always know this! You have created three Amazing Children that have all grown into Amazing Adults! We all Love ❤️ You guys so much! I could go on and on!

[@catchyname5403]

Val you’re doing a wonderful job at explaining and sharing your viewers how complex caregiving is. I am so glad you reiterated we only see a few mins of your life because I see that it’s easy for folks to have suggestions and opinions on how and what you should be doing. Caregiving is difficult and as a former caregiver some days it took everything to just get through a day. Outsiders only see the good and cute things but not the daily grind and how hard and repetitive some things are and how tiresome it gets. You are a phenomenal mother and caregiver and your knowledge, strength and love are a blessing to the world. Lastly, I am so happy you had that short time for you, you deserve and need every second it. Thanks for enlightening us and sharing snippets of your family and life with us, I appreciate you.

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you!! ❤️

[@debbykinney2684]

Val you help me so much with my mom that has dementia. I've learned a lot of patients from you. Thank you so much.

[@Shaping_Serenity]

❤️

[@caseyspace4286]

Thank you for sharing this difficult topic. You did a great job of explaining how it is.

[@amandahopper3522]

Your family is amazing Val

[@jindrasturgill1194]

You are truly a blessing to all with whom you share. I thank you personally for what you have helped me with (a 2.5 y/o granddaughter with autism.. So much to learn. I feel like I come to class each time when you post a new video. As a retired RN, I pick up so much from the way you speak with us. You are a blessing for me. I pray you continue to remember to care for yourself as much as possible. God bless and be with you always.

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you!

[@EllenJohn4]

Great video. 100 percent understand. No need to explain yourself! God bless you. Such a good point to tell others - “don’t judge - you have no idea”. We are a special needs family - multiple disabilities: and we agree with you completely.

[@Shaping_Serenity]

Thank you ❤️

[@JodySalviati]

I hope no one ever judges you! Your whole family including Marlow are all wonderful strong caring people. I have so much respect! Much love 💕

[@vickiepoe2028]

I think you are doing a fantastic job!

[@StarsHallow]

I pray your channel will grow. You have so much to offer other families! Plus you feel like family after watching you all for over a year now. I can’t look at playing cards anymore in the store or online without checking to see if they’re plastic and if they’re waterproof. Lol we are a family with the caregiver and it is not easy I can relate to a lot of what you said in this video. Most of them with tears in my eyes because it’s emotional to talk about. It’s hard for someone to understand unless if you live this life day in and day out! You’re doing a great job Val and just know that other mothers are behind you giving you support whether you know it or not. ♥️

[@katestraus4324]

Thanks, Val for being so open and honest about life with Jess. I've learned so much from watching you and your family, Marlow. It's important for people to know that love and care are different in every household.

[@wendyellis7365]

It is so hard Val, physical and verbal aggression is not ok…I feel your pain, it scares me.

[@gwenbennett8955]

Val I can only imagine the extra time and energy it takes to care for someone with special needs. You and your family do a terrific job and I know you are also human with human emotions and frustrations etc. I know the time and energy it takes to raise a child without a disability and some of those days can be trying maybe even wanting to run away on occasion. Lol! It’s ok we are human. I’m so glad you were able to get away for a few days. It’s so important to care for oneself and sometimes we can forget. Thank you for giving insight. You really do inspire me. You are a wonderful person with a wonderful family.

[@karolsworld]

People have no idea.... I think you do great. It’s tough. We’ve been through so much. Michael has came so far. But independent I don’t see it. But at the same time he keeps me on track in a lot of ways...

[@Myyt6908]

wow, so appreciate your honesty. I have been watching you guys for a bit and this is the first time I was compleled to comment. Good JOB mom! (I love that Jess is spoiled!)

[@Shaping_Serenity]

❤️