MOVING TO THE GROUP HOME

[@pattylegg9479]

Mama this is a blessing for Aiden. He will become strong and independent. His interaction with all the kids his age will be such a growing experience for him. You are doing the best for Aiden. Enjoy your moments with Potato. She needs you as much as you need her.

[@christywalker3354]

You are such a great Mama! Aiden and Potato are so Blessed! Just know that God always provides and gives us exactly what we can handle! Don't worry as everything is already planned out for you by him! You are very strong and will be able to power through! Things will get easier!

[@redroads4598]

I have been watching your journey...Thank you for sharing this. My sister was born with disabilities, and my mom has been taking care of her for many, many years. Mom decided she can't do it anymore, as she is very elderly. We found an AMAZING group home for my sister. It was hard for Mom, but my sister has flourished in the new environment. One of the most amazing things is my sister has gained independence, that is a powerful thing. Hang in there, you son will do well, its a big change for all of you..I will keep your family my prayers..XOXO

[@judithgalazin2150]

Have a good cry in th3 shower, it helps me. Everything will work out, don’t worry❤

[@Susancshell]

What a wonderful, sweet message of encouragement. I hope your sister continues to thrive.

[@redroads4598]

@ awe! Thank you.. hope it helps with her son. Patience, one day at a time and lots of love❤️❤️🙏🏻

[@Maggs-2248]

You are not abandoning him. You are giving him a chance. These people deal with all these issues and know what they are doing.

[@TheVixen59]

I have a step son who was coddled and babied by his now deceased Mom. He's been thrown out of group homes because he's never been made to act like an adult. At 54,he's now in a locked facility because he's sure he's competent,which he isn't. You did the right thing.

[@thewoodenspoon9679]

Aiden deserves a chance to make new friends and enjoy learning experiences with other people instead of so much time walking around the apt. This may be a very positive experience for him. He may surprise you at how well he may do. Think positive and rest easy with the decision. He deserves that.

[@linkedinroses9447]

You are doing the best for him!!! ❤️ One day you will no longer be able to do for him and you are preparing him for independence.... Proud of you!

[@michellem8284]

My favorite quote: "You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have." So often the "right" thing to do is the hardest thing to do. Hoping for the best for all of you.

[@willowwren7752]

I’ve worked in this area for 37 years/ started in an institution for 5 years and 32 in a group home with the same kind of people As Aiden he will be just fine Give yourself a break and stop worrying so much Please❤

[@charity7273]

Girl, I cried with you. It's such a hard situation but you've been such a great mama to your babies. Sending prayers 🙏🏾

[@SweetPea-iy9sg]

Let the tears flow. You have gone through so much. ❤

[@lyndafinnell2336]

Your recording this will help you and many others of what you go through. It’s perfect. It’s honest and it’s change. You doing great.

[@StefTX]

I am glad you had a good impression of the group home. I will continue to pray that Aiden adjusts well and that it is a good thing for him. I hope Aiden knows how many people love him and want him to be in a place that he feels comfortable. He is such a sweetheart and I can see how much you love him. I will be praying for you as well. We love you Meaty Mama!

[@angelinamancuso545]

A group home helped my brother so much, this will be a good thing, You are doing a great job Mama!

[@luvsiberians8006]

I know this is hard Mama, but we are all praying for a smooth transition for Aiden AND you and Potato. It was heartwarming to see him throw the football and enjoy being outside. I just feel like this will be a very positive change for Aiden to be around others and learn and see new things. Of course it will take some time for everything to settle, but you fought a WAR to get this placement for him, and congrats on winning the war!!!

[@winnie2379]

My two sons both moved out in a 2 week period. The house was so quiet. I went into their empty rooms & just cried & cried. So I called my MIL to talk to someone (my mother has passed away)…but my FIL answered, which isn’t typical. I told him what was going on, and he said, “I still go into our kids’ rooms too.” Wow, I cried even more but his words meant so much.

[@mey7579]

MM, you’ve been dealt a difficult situation with Aiden. As a retired special education teacher, I applaud your resilience and determination to get the support Aiden needs to live his best life. I have sat on committees that explored options for classified public school students aging out of school. Parents of these children all have the same concerns and feelings as you do. But in my experience, these children generally thrive because they’re often with their peers and they learn new skills. It’s heartening that Aiden liked the group home on his visit. My heart is with you 🥰💖

[@karengillespie2411]

This will be hard to get used to the new normal. But this is good for Aiden! He’ll thrive

[@rondagoss4462]

I love that he has a backyard! I think getting out of the house more will be great for him. ❤

[@redrooster1908]

Thank you for the update, MM❤ All the best to you and your son. Get well soon, Miss Potato 🥰

[@nobles9914]

Praying for a smooth transition! 🙏🙏🙏

[@CascadeDuSel]

My mama heart is breaking for the pain that you’re in. Please know that you are absolutely doing the right thing for him and this is so much harder for you than it is on anyone else. ❤

[@silvursprings]

Mama, you are so courageous. It hurts to see you hurt. You didn't ask for this journey, but God loves you so much he entrusted you with Aiden because he knew your heart was made of gold....a requirement for God's children like Aiden. God bless you all. ❤

[@kathyhayward5730]

I wish I could reach through the computer screen and give you a hug. Letting kids go, even if it's to a good place, is hard to do.

[@CurrentlyLoading....]

Same and yes .. I wish we can all hug her . Sometimes that's all a mama needs... ❤❤❤

[@labcat647]

Great news for Aiden, Potato, and you.. but was always going to be hard for your momma heart.

[@lyndafinnell2336]

This is fantastic. I know you are taking a big step, but a month or 3 months from now you will be glad that all this is happening. You’re doing a great job on all your research and following through.

[@gingerbaby2184]

As hard as it is right now it will get better day by day. I look forward to you having some peace in your and Potato's life. I'm so glad he has found a new spot and I hope it's a good fit for him.

[@thetruth6627]

Just came to say what a strong, loving mother you are. Praying God give you even more strength to deal with all of this emotionally. Change is so hard but can also be for the best. God bless you.

[@willowwren7752]

🎉🎉🎉this is what you’ve been waiting for! Congrats to you and Potato! Aiden will grow and be happy❤

[@genschick916]

Even children without this type of disability have separation anxiety when starting something new. Example, first day of kindergarten or any first day of school etc. Lots of tears usually for many days in a row. Aiden has a harder time processing and expressing his feelings. It will all be ok. Those Sunday family days can be just as great without leaving the home. Just visiting, bringing him things he loves, a special treat. talking to him, reading to him, playing games, sitting out in the backyard are just as meaningful. You will be able to tell him about your week and talk about what he's doing. You are a great mother. Your children are lucky to have you.

[@Judi-lm2fj]

I can't imagine what you are going thru. This is best for all of you. Aiden will flourish. You and Potato will be safe again. Sending you a virtual Mom hug. Time will heal everything. You are doing what is best for everyone. Thank you for the video.

[@maureen14]

This is great news. I'm sure he will thrive there, make new friends and really enjoy living there. You're absolutely doing what's best for him. And of course you'll be grieving for a little while, but he's very close to your home so that's very good and you can visit him anytime.❤

[@vickyk9694]

Watching this on Sunday morning and hoping that you and potato have had a couple of days to decompress and just relax. From the pictures it looks like Aiden is going to do well. Continuing to pray for your family. ❤

[@lilylovesbrian]

You are a wonderful mother! I admire you. May God continue to bless your life.

[@tamara1565]

Prayers that this transition goes as smooth as possible. Huge deal for all of you. I am glad you are a good advocate for him. Not everyone has someone in their corner.

[@kristiina-f9h]

Oh, Meaty Mama, my heart is with you, Aiden, and Potato. ❤🙏Please take all the time you need and know your viewers have your back- will be watching your older videos until a new one appears. Thank you for sharing your life with us, and thank you for showing us where he is. Sending so much love and prayers to all of you. Also, please rest, you and Potato, so you can both get well soon. ❤

[@CruiseGirl1]

I’ve been thinking of you and Aidan all day. It’s a new era for all of you. Thank you for sharing,cheering for all of you from afar💕.

[@abbylynn8872]

You got this.... cry all you want I will say, take his big blanket and comforter even if they are too large for the bed. He wont care that its too big. Its familiar and comforting ❤

[@Suzad75]

Praying all will go well. Think of it as him getting older and being more independent. It’s hard but it will be the best for all of you.

[@ronda176]

Keeping all of you in my thoughts. Change is not easy so take as much time as you need to feel all the feelings and get rested and healthy before you get back to work. You’re doing great!

[@julie-l3p]

Very postive change .. You and Potato , came make a change in your home Decorating etc ❤

[@Macybella-o7k]

Prayers for a healthy, happy, and quality life that your family deserves. ❤

[@esteeb42]

Aiden is disabled but.. I wouldn't be surprised if he senses that Mama is tired. I think he is going to be ok😉❤

[@jennithepooh4u]

Hugs to you and your kids! Whatever feeling you are feeling just know they are valid and real and you are also seen in this! Hug hug hug

[@Witchisyours]

It's bittersweet. I work in transportation for these individuals, and see them mostly on a daily basis for their schooling. It's harder for the parents then the child. 99% of the young adults I see go through a transition period then they are fine. Not to say they don't have their bad days but we all do. I've seen them thrive being in a good group home. You have to be a Fantastic Mama to let your boy Fly on his own among other young adults. ❤️ I'm so happy it's all working out for all 3 of you. Stay strong Mama. The end results will be wonderful

[@Pjisbell]

Sweet mama I’m praying for you and peace for you and your family.

[@lisaolivieri3431]

I feel for you. This situation is going to be a huge change, I am praying all goes well. You are a great mother doing what is best for your family.

[@sheehanannie]

Sending love and peace your way. I worked in group homes for 15 years. He will benefit so much with the structure there. You are doing the best thing for you and him.

[@Gatorgorl]

Sending you positivity today! Hopefully Aiden will love and flourish in his new home! Sending peace to you and Potato. ❤️

[@AngelTM-nz3ls]

This is so exciting for Aiden. Change is always hard for everyone but especially people who have extra challenges. I'm so glad you're giving this a try. I'll pray for his success and for peace of mind for you. I can see how hard this is for you but I'm sure you know you are doing the right thing for your family. You are a very smart lady. You are in an impossible situation so know you are doing the absolute best you can. I wish I could be there to give you a hug. You will get through this! God Bless You!

[@glendasully]

Please take the time that you need to process this major life changing event. I will be watching your old videos so you'll still have income generating on your channel. Everything is going to be ok

[@Whatsnewkittycat3]

I dropped my son off at college in August. I literally thought my soul was going to melt. I laid in bed and cried for three days. It was ugly. I grieved and slowly things fell into a new routine. Our brains understand change and eventually our hearts catch up . Aiden is going to meet people , try new experiences, learn skills.. things we all want for our kids . Whether it’s in college or a new home . I think more importantly you are going to get to meet new people.. the families of the other residences, the owner, the manager.. all people who are their to help and love aiden like you do. But do take time to grieve.. time will heal it , I promise.

[@denisew.8610]

I took to the bed when my son went 7 hours away to college. We drove him there and left him and I sobbed all the 7 hours back home. I couldn't eat for days. I was so worried if he would figure things out on his own and I even realized I had never shown him how to do his laundry and for me at the time it was a big deal. I kept thinking 17 years is not long enough to teach them all they need to know. He made it fine without me but even 8 years later, I miss him terribly. I'm so glad Aiden is only 20 minutes away.

[@hunterbroyles8292]

I am sooo excited for you, Aiden, and Potato!!! Change is hard whether it's good or bad. You will get through it. I know this isn't exactly the same thing but my grandmother had to go in assisted living and we all struggled with this decision but it ended up really enriching her life.

[@Rosesnflowers7]

Be encouraged you did everything well GOD sees that mama heart....let him grow he's a champ as are you

[@cindysheppard8653]

Sending you peace and strength ❤ He will have friends and looked after well.

[@4103MAC]

Rest mama!!! The silence will be deafening at first, but don't feel bad about eventually enjoying the peace. This is best for all of you!!!

[@RamonaGraves-j8g]

It's a bittersweet time for you, Aiden, & Potato. You have love and prayers from all of us!

[@929jpotter]

He didn’t want to leave? That’s awesome, MM! ❤ I know it won’t be perfect or no bumps, but praying hard that it’s better than y’all even imagine. Y’all deserve this so much. Love to all of you.

[@Rickyleehb]

This is a big day. Hang in there MM

[@outoftheashes_]

Oh Mama. Hugs. Remember you are doing everything in your power to offer your son his best life! It's heartbreaking I know but you are doing what's best for Aiden. You just wait he'll have buddies where he's at before you know it.

[@djshelleyshell]

This is nothing but a good move for all three of you. Now you can be a mother and not a caregiver. Your daughter wont have to walk on eggshells and can live like a real young adult. Your son will have 24 hour care and will have plenty of outings and can live a fulfilling life. You won’t be around forever to care for him, this is necessary.

[@djshelleyshell]

I’m commenting as someone whose best friend runs two homes and I also have an autistic cousin who moved from the family home into a care unit. EVERYONE deserves to flourish.

[@sandrap3047]

I can only imagine how hard this is for you! My heart breaks for what your family is going through! I’m sure you’ve cried a million tears by now! I hope everything goes smoothly for Aiden! This is the best thing for him but I’m sure it’s bittersweet! Hope you and Potato can have some peace! Hope you both get well soon! ❤

[@Patricia-z9m5v]

It's all going to be ok. Big adjustment but you and Aiden will be ok.

[@Anne--Marie]

And Potato!

[@JCraig-n4t]

You and your family are in my prayers. I can't even imagine how difficult this is for you. I have been following you for quite a while and am always in awe of your strength and perseverance. You are so deserving of comfort and care. I know God will continue to guide you as your family goes through this new adventure. I believe in my heart that Aiden will flourish, as will you and your daughter. Blessings to you my dear!

[@bodacious.bettyboop3780]

Mama look forward not back. Sounds like it is going to be good for him and Potato and You🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@virginiamasius3338]

Looks like a good situation for everyone! Prayers and love to you all! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@normamccafferty3053]

Thank you so much for this update! ❤ I’ve been praying and wondering what your family was experiencing. ❤️ I really appreciate your effort to let us know Aiden moved. It’s understandable that you’ll need space now. It’s a big change for all you. Sending prayer & love during the switch to this new chapter. ❤ I’m proud of you for facing this change with strength and hope. ❤ As always, I am #RootingForYou ❤❤❤

[@katieleveen6606]

Prayers for you mama. Wishing you all peace during your transitions.

[@FIRE_DrNinjaTurtle]

I have a disabled sister in a group home about 3 hours from me. My wife and I visit her. Our family is 3000 miles away so we are all she has.

[@MonicaAdrianna]

Wow Mama- I'm so happy for you all. It will be a tough transition at first- but I just know this is going to be so good for all of you. Sending lots of love xoxoxoxo

[@prvbs_31]

Great news! Thanks for sharing. It is so hard to watch your firstborn leave the nest. It’s ok to be sad.

[@MCOTJ1212]

Praying for all of you. May Aiden find peace and joy and most importantly may you all find comfort and feel the love of Jesus through this entire journey! God Bless you all

[@mu.draconis]

Praise God! 🙏🏽It’s such a relief to hear this encouraging update. I pray that things continue to go smoothly for you all. Meaty Mama, you are such a wonderful mother to your kids and just an awesome human being. Thank you for sharing so much of your life and keeping us updated. 🙌🏽❤️😌

[@rhondalockrey9592]

Bigs hugs Mama 1 step at a time 1 day at a time. Aiden will love the backyard & might like making friends. Plus you can bring him comfort foods he likes & he is close to visit. We are all praying this goes well. Its now feels like a blessing this happened this fast but I know its painful for you. Rest up take care of yourself!

God bless you, Aiden, and Potato in this new, exciting segment of your life. God bless all three of you and grant you peace.

[@Deb-f6p]

I put my daughter in a group home per psychiatrist advice so she can learn more being round others. She stayed 15 years, and then fell and busted her mouth really bad. She didn’t want to stay there anymore so I took her back home. She has been home with me for 7 years. While she was there. I got a degree as a RN and worked. She came home and I continued to work until Covid hit, and I loss the caretakers. I hope and pray she can stay home even after I die, because this is now her home. Everyone has a situation. While he is there, you can maybe get you a degree, work, then you can have something to fall back on, plus earn credits for social security. Just a suggestion. Good luck. PS/ I worried about her every second of every day while she was there. Special needs Mom’s we have it so freaking hard. 😢. Stay strong! ❤

[@b.strong9220]

I hope you realize how AMAZING YOU are, MM!! Many blessings to you and your family!! 💙💙💙

[@Michele-tt2tr]

Again, you're such a great mother and this is a huge change for you and your family. I pray that God gives you strength guidance as you turn the page. I'm glad that he's so close. I'm glad that you'll be able to visit often. God bless you. I'm praying with you. I feel your heart mama.❤❤❤❤❤. I hope you and potato feel well very very soon and that Eden adjust very well and loves it there.

[@scheherezade3]

My heart goes out to you. I can’t imagine how difficult this is for all but you’re doing this out of love. And it sounds like you found a good fit for him. Keeping you all in my thoughts. Looking forward to seeing Aiden in his new digs 😊

[@hwein1216]

Fingers crossed the transition goes well. It will take time for you both. You are right, one day at a time. Hardest on the Momma for sure!!! Hope you and potato have a great dinner out tonight. So happy to see him in the backyard and throwing the ball - looks like he is off to a great start!!! xoxoxo

[@judyh001]

So proud of you and what you are doing for Aiden. Change is hard - and this is BIG change. Not just for him, but also for you as a mom. It's hard enough when it's a child without challenges, who is growing up and spreading their wings and moving out. This is will be hard - it will be different - it will be quite the adjustment for you, Aiden as well as potato. You've done your job as his mom and you've gotten him this far. It's time for him to step out and for you to have faith. This will give him the opportunity to grow. He's very lucky to have you.

[@Tita7days-vk4ou]

Keep your head up, MAMA! ❤ #YOUTHEBEST 🙏 🤲

[@CurrentlyLoading....]

😢.it's bittersweet, but sounds like it's going to be a good place for him. Sending love and prayers for easy transition for both you and Aiden❤❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏🙏❤❤❤and biggest hugs for you... It's gonna be all right my friend .. 🫂🫂🫂🫂

[@cole2404]

Oh honey, I so wish I could hug you guys. Sending hugs and love to you all. ❤🙏🏿

[@carolyndetemple]

Love you Meaty Mama, Aiden and Potato ❤This tugs at the heartstrings. I’m happy for Aiden and his new home, but also sad for you all because I know that this isn’t easy for anyone. It’s bittersweet for sure. I hope it all goes smoothly and I hope Aiden can feel comfortable in his new home and I will pray for you all 🙏💕

[@debbieklein8941]

Man, I wish I could hug you right now. You are doing the BEST thing for your son, even though it seems horrible. I believe your dear Aiden will thrive in his new home. It may take awhile but it will be so awesome for all of you 😍😍😍

[@nancymeza4851]

Prayers 🙏 for a smooth transition...

[@julieannemichelle]

I completely understand. And I know it isn’t easy. I hope everything goes well.❤

[@my3girls289]

Oh honey this was hard to watch! I worked in group homes and day programs for years. They were some of the best years! He will thrive being around friends, enjoying his new home, and getting new experiences!! You are rocking this mom gig!!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@heatherj3030]

I cried along with you. This has to has to be so hard on you, and yet a blessing at the same time. I pray that God gives you comfort and rest, and smooths this transition for all three of you. I hope you and Potato feel better soon. ❤🙏🙏💕

[@kathleenchambers6485]

My last job was in a group home for people with disabilities. It had to be one of my favourite jobs. My coworkers were wonderful. Hopefully your son has the same experience.

[@chrystallee1563]

I work in a group home. Been doing it for 14 years now!

[@willowwren7752]

Please keep us updated so We don’t worry love you Mama Potato & Aiden❤

[@Pamcatmom]

Prayers for peace and strength for you all.

[@doubled3962]

💕🙏💕🙏💕😢hugs Mama, Adian, and potato 👍👍❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕💞

[@judyrinaldi9729]

You and Aiden have been in my thoughts and prayers constantly. Please know that many people are surrounding you with love and strength.

[@angelsloan2654]

This is going to be wonderful for you both!! Aiden will be around peers and interact with other boys. You and potato will adjust to it being just you guys. I love you all

[@DonLaPierre-ho8ng]

No words 😶 can be said except Positive change ahead 🙏

[@DMax-fq1bd]

Praying it all works out for you, Mama!

[@DSJ72]

I hope your daughter feels better!

[@charlottemalone1962]

This is sounding wonderful! God is good!

[@c_rhynehardt]

ALL the time!

[@pamelamccoy5342]

This is a new beginning for all of you. You deserve the chance for a new beginning. You are an excellent mom, never forget that.

[@jasminerivera6319]

I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Do they have group meetings for family to gather who are going through this or went through it to come together? If not they should. It helps when people know they’re not alone. Gos Bless your family , may your sons transition be smooth and peaceful, and he enjoys life with his new friends 🙏❤️ You are a great mama, your son and daughter are lucky to have you.

[@nantzlynn77]

I think you have been fighting so hard to advocate for Aidan that when they finally agreed to the group home it had to be a shock for you. You have to have faith that his new placement is going to advance him in ways you never thought possible. You have done a tremendous job on your own, but now it’s time for you and Potato to go on with your lives too. Aidan will flourish with new people to meet and new things to do. “Ask and you shall receive.” All the glory to God who listens to our prayers and shows us mercy. You have shown such grace and dignity throughout. I pray for the best for all of you 🙏🏻