We Aren't Being Honest

What you haven't seen is the really hard few days. We know it's important to share that sort of thing because it helps others to realize none of us are perfect parents, we all have challenges we face, sometimes you just need to cry, and we can all get through it. Not gonna lie, it's been hell and it has tested us. It puts a strain on our relationship as husband and wife and makes things much less enjoyable that should be happy life-long memories. We do have a plan however that we implemented yesterday and so far things are improving. Like most challenges we face as caregivers and parents it mostly stems from communication so that's where we will head it off.
If you’re looking for a link, social media, or how to get in touch with us go here - msha.ke/father...

[@maryanngeraghty4792]

What an ending though 💓 🍾 🎉

[@fatheringautism]

I know right!

[@fatheringautism]

Wait until you see the hike she did today!

[@maryanngeraghty4792]

@@fatheringautism Oh man! I can’t wait!!

[@maryanngeraghty4792]

@@fatheringautism Spectacular! 🎆

[@kimmystewart6959]

Bread works as buns if you just get past the fact that it's bread

[@jenniferrose250]

Thank you for being honest about the tough days. It can be very tiring. I just wanted you to know that you are an encouragement to me. When things are hard/uncomfortable for our family when traveling, I always think of you guys and how you don't give up and stay home, even though it would probably be easier, at times. It's nice to know others have similar experiences. I hope rest comes easy tonight....

[@jcomm120]

My kid's was not non-verbal most of time but he did freak out often with certain changes, even very modest ones. I found it was helpful to use the simplest possible verbal cues said in exacfly same tone of voice each time. "You gotta calm down now." and stop any activities until he actually calmed down. I might also say, "You can't do (next fun thing) if you don't calm down now." He's really bright but the very simple communication in those moments helped alot.

[@skinssbllod]

Hello from overseas! Military family here! I love your family! You guys rock!!!

[@levintry8812]

My son is 5 and is autistic. We went on our 2nd road trip (part of which was going to Devil's Tower/Bear Lodge!) a few weeks ago. He took a few days to acclimate to us being on the road and his appetite was really poor, but once he got acclimated, we had a great 3 week trip!

[@mistyrain3516]

Y'all are awesome parents. I have an autistic daughter who is almost 10 years old and at times she drives me absolutely crazy and at the end of the day if I see one of your videos I watch it and it relaxes me and let's me know that I've got this.

[@vjc4502]

My autistic daughter is 30. It is a life long journey that changes as they change. Sometimes the lows are really low, the highs really high. There are glimpses of what could be, but the reality is, our normal is not really normal for most people. No matter. We do our best, day by day & step by step.

[@dream2451]

You know, talking about the struggle, is great, folks complain about filming poor interactions, then complain when you don't. You do you, I learn so much and have enjoyed traveling vicariously. Love y'all.

[@sharisiragusa8271]

Cilla, you hit the nail on the head....I am typical and I couldn't imagine being that closed in for such an extended time with just my parents.....Hope you have an amazing rest of your trip...

[@katiekawaii]

Oh I'd totally lose my mind, and I'm neurotypical _and_ I enjoy hanging out with my parents 😅

[@lolal1919]

Definitely agree! I adore my parents and sister, but a two week trip when we were all adults was almost too much for us. And when I was 17, ABSOLUTELY NOT! 😂

[@christineenyart7721]

Devils Tower, one of the many wonders of the world. Traveling is not easy with anyone, and you guys are doing a great job 👏🏻

[@tammy707]

Totally with anyone can be rough, your right.

[@elainewhitelock5347]

I think Cillla is absolutely spot on. ABBIE needs other people around other just her parents now she's a teenager.

[@cheyennehalliger5438]

I’m 25 and I don’t like being around with my mom all the time! I love the look on your face Asa,when Cilla said who wants to be around the same person.

[@hatchmando4918]

I know what you do is hard and add that to constantly recording/editing…. I just want to say thank you for sharing, being consistent in your vlogs, and being willing to share your family. Im home most of the time from a car accident 23 yrs ago that really injured my spine etc. so I suffer chronic pain. Your videos brighten my days. So thank you ❤️

[@ekidd79]

Asa "They show a movie here, do you know what movie?" Cilla "No" Asa "Close Encounters" Cilla "Why is that?" ...Me :audibly gasps in the tone of Spielberg, Dreyfus and mashed potatoes:

[@blushkitten1]

Thank you both so much for sharing. My daughter grew up with ADHD and sensory integration disorder. Boy did we have our battle someday and other day things went great but it's the transitioning that always seems to be the problem and I thank you for sharing. My daughter is 28 now but still I appreciate you sharing because I don't feel alone. If that makes sense

[@lizzykate93]

Thank you for sharing the struggles Abbie is having, it must be really hard for her not being able to communicate what's wrong!

[@J0yAllDay]

Sometimes these videos just bring tears to my eyes because it means so much to see we aren't alone. I appreciate seeing you guys figuring it out and you are such an encouragement!

[@bethanypaxton9982]

I feel that to Priscilla when my kids are anxious and they went a break from me. Because I'm a stay-at-home mom, it's summer and my husband works in Illinois. So we are always together. My son loves playing out in the yard with the hose, and having his independence to himself. Everybody needs, "alone time". But you guys are doing wonderfully with her it seems. And I think you for all the tricks and tips that I pick up from you both thank you.

[@susanseifert925]

Thank you for sharing all the ups and all the challenges. To me appears to be fine line between stimulating her in one way and not over stimulating in another way. Yes, just that change in routine and bored with Mon & Dad could all be playing a part. So, constant assessing and managing(?). Continued safe travels😁

[@paularutledge5126]

You guys rock! I love how you guys interact with each other as a couple. You give each other grace. Your daughter is having an amazing experience seeing the country. Amazing parenting!!!!

[@purplegal597]

I agree with cilla ~ Abby just needs a break from mom and dad and spend time with her other people. Being in such close quarters with your parents for that long can be emotionally taxing.

[@pamelalavigne1935]

I think it is a combo of things , but truly she may just be bored. Having a fun time with your friends and then nothing going on other than driving and walks. Abbie sure lets you know she is a teen... lol when your with family or friends she has more freedom from you both and in the camper there is 99 % attention towards her. just talking about it helps you both...

[@1crackedup]

It’s life kids! You can’t be perfect all the time! We are just human! She’s doing great!

[@janiceweigart1544]

I agree with you guys that sometimes our kids get tired of being with their parents all the time and they like to be with somebody their own age

[@lindagrimmett6564]

Abbie is blessed with two wonderful, caring and patient parents! You two are definitely a blessing!

[@jimmymelendez1836]

Close Encounters is a classic Spielberg movie. I love it! I'd be all over Devil's Tower.

[@FindingMyLight]

People go on vacation true, but not for 2 or longer months at a time. Most people can't afford that, at least the average income family. She may just be getting tired of it, honestly I would get sick of being away from home for that long too. I think she has handled it very well well for as much as we are shown I should add

[@marlareid883]

Nothing like hearing a little of Dolly's, Coat of Many Colors while walking through the campground.

[@rachelsebree8524]

I appreciate transparency, it's why I watch.

[@yowyo2006]

Close Encounters is shown there because it was filmed at Devil's Tower. Fun fact, the crew ate at the Aro in Sundance where my mom was a server! My grandparents also owned the Aro at one point in time :).

[@LittleLo633]

You are fantastic parents!

[@dellaharper2581]

You are a normal family. Yes.” She has her Problems but like any teenage they have their problems. I say your doing your best. Abbie has been happy 🙃😉Thank You for your honesty and take videos

[@kimm59]

I totally understand what Priscilla just said it is true you too need a break also you're amazing

[@MimisSoulFood]

Well done Abby, Mom & Dad! Some days are just rough days. But how precious is the feeling of successful communication filled with love when everyone’s been at their wits end and broken down. Tears!

[@carolbellinger]

Dang yall. That camper is bigger than my house😂😂😂I'm so happy for yall 💞

[@Daisy-Girl0021]

I have watched your channel ALL DAY (well the traveling here and your other channel lol) lazy Sunday lol I have so much respect for the 2 of you as humans...let along the parents you are to your beautiful girl!! Thank you for being so vulnerable with your journey... I worked with DD individual for 15 years and I LOVED every single minute of it Even the challenges.. As her parents I can't even pretend to imagine the trials and tribulations..high emotions and even the joy!! Much Love 💛

[@painiacs83]

Wished this was around when my son was growing up, days I felt so alone and thought I'd go stark raving mad!! 😆

[@paulabaker6448]

Thanks for sharing 👍...love yall

[@maryjanewilson4793]

Weebles wobble but they don't fall down.

[@Nini51963]

I wish my son would communicate what he wants to eat , or if he’s not feeling ok , it’s always a guessing game . He loves camping and walking the dogs everywhere is booked lately so hard to camp . My son is 40 . He loves watching Abby .Thank you for sharing

[@Tay7WonderDog]

That devil's tower with the clouds and sun behind was gorgeous! I don't feel like you owe us any explanation. I think sometimes you might feel like you need to explain because while y'all can hide your emotions at times, Abbie is easy for viewers to ready when she's having a good time or now, so people feel the need to comment on her bad days......even though everyone has bad days, no one is immune to a bad day. It is nice to explain when y'all do anyway, to help those that don't see or understand autism, to help them understand a mood or moment.

[@Sherryk546]

Maybe some of her issues are her wanting to be “doing” more and more chaos and people. She doesn’t have her golf cart or pool so maybe she was liking the tourist stuff just because it was always “going”. Just an observation. What about a schedule with like get up, do chores, eat etc. that is something we really keep up at school - just an idea… you are amazing all of you and like Pricilla’s friends said, you still have bad days at home too so these experiences are amazing.

[@_RavishingRaven_]

She does have a schedule. And she still does her chores. They showed it a few times since they have been traveling. 😊

[@Sherryk546]

I just mean a daily schedule that is something like she would have had at school. To know what is up next etc. possibly a visual one. Many of my students do so much better with one. It takes away the uncertainty. Thanks

[@leoniepearce2221]

As a parent of ‘said’ difficult children to parent due to traumatic early childhoods before us. I can so relate . What keeps me empathetic is telling myself ‘no frontal lobe’ lol they’re not developed yet. They don’t have the ability to reason out things like us. And then you have their issues on top of that . All you can do it take each day as it comes. I love your journey with Abby it’s real. I love that she has chores within her capacity and you involve her in life.

[@carolynchamplain8469]

Ohhh I get you with the hard days. Even with my typical kiddos it’s HARD some times! Glad she finished out the day with a great walk to the dog park!

[@CoreyAnneTeacher]

As a teacher who has worked with teenagers with disabilities one thing I say to all my parents (especially those without teens) is that the teenage years tend to be hard for almost all families. A teenager with autism still has the same hormones and growth as any other teenager but due to delays they may not have the communication abilities and level of understanding as typical teens. There are many times I have to remind parents of this and while yes it may look different for their teen it can be that they are just being a teenager and having a “teenager moment” that is different due to delays in communication and understanding. Imagine your teenage years and navigating through them without really understanding what is happening to your body or why you feel the way you do and then not being able to express your thoughts and needs to those around you. It would be very frustrating and you would probably get angry and upset heck even without a disability I remember being very frustrated, angry, upset, and having crying fits in my bedroom when I was a teenager. Just like a typical teenager it is hard and not an easy time to navigate but it gets better as you get older and you stop growing and your hormones calm down. This phase will past and you will grow, learn, make progress and face other challenges in your life but that is what life is all about.

[@elisenelson3631]

I always love that view when going west to Wyoming, and then again on the way back home. Interstate 90 is the way to go. Have a great trip home.

[@rhommey111]

Love watching your journey especially the SD portion, I haven’t been there in years but we used to go when I was growing up to visit family. Fun fact ( if you didn’t already know) Devils Tower is what Michael Douglas builds out of his mashed potatoes in Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

[@lindavanaalst5634]

You guys rock👍

[@justcallmejessz3712]

Thank You!!! I'm glad someone agrees with me that when you go to the Zoo the animals are tooo far away to be that cool!,

[@carmenmarialinne2650]

Can Abbie relate to simple images/ icons…”Happy face”, Angry face, sleepy face, etc..?… Can she answer How she feels by choosing one of those? Even one?

[@Clairee94]

And not knowing how to communicate what you're feeling.....it can be very frustrating

[@eileendoherty2836]

Was thinking the same… my girl was also on the birth control depo affects appetite and mood plus she misses home

[@sabrydson]

Thank you so much for sharing your "rough" days with us and keeping it real, Maas Family! I haven't really read many comments on this vlog (nor others), because I just really LOVE your content and don't want to see anything (if anything) negative. One thing I do want to comment on, during this particular vlog, was how Cilla asked Abbie Please and Thank you (toward the end of the vlog) to do something. IMO, that is SOOOO important, whether it's toward our kids or others we interact with. I've seen both of you tell Abbie thank you many, many times. I haven't (unless I've missed it - sorry if I have) seen a please real often. You are both AMAZING parents though, WITH OUT A DOUBT!!! Thank you, all, for continuing to share your life with us. 🥰

[@katiekawaii]

It really is so important to treat kids with respect. I remember a vlog from a couple years ago where Abbie said she didn't want to be filmed, so they left her out of the vlog that day. They respected her feelings. It's a simple thing, but it means everything. Treat children the way you want them to treat others.

[@ashleighcalmestascier2160]

That’s great seeing her clean and putting things away. Keep doing what your doing.

[@wandasmith1723]

Abby could be missing her home. I know I would miss my home and bed.

[@a.dibenedetti7309]

I have severe anxiety and new places cause me to feel nervous, scared, why not give your daughter some medication before she has to feel so scared. I know how she feels it is easy for you but not for her. You are doing an amazing parents however Abby is anxious I think.

[@tanyavictoria1629]

I love your family and vlogs. Watching a loving, supportive and bunch of family members together, sharing moments, walks and talks. These are moments you will hold in your heart forever! I miss my father terribly. Thank you for sharing with us! Love y’all! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@ronjacobsen4821]

You guys are amazing 😍

[@_RavishingRaven_]

Love the talk Asa🤗 needed to hear it!!!

[@tammyfelch4363]

Oh I'm sure your having challenges. I just had to say how much I laughed yesterday soley on what you posted. I could tell you were slap happy lol 😂 you have to be like that at times or you won't survive. Your great parents and we only see seconds of what you show. I'm sure most people know that. I love seeing you both laugh. 💓

[@tammyfelch4363]

Oboy I typed before I seen the end lol

[@ashleighcalmestascier2160]

Yes at times vacation can be hard.

[@debbiea.1272]

No matter what, you guys always make me smile 😃❤️

[@EllyMae48]

Abby I love lunchables too. I have to shared with my cat thou. She loves them too 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@meridethzmijewski7362]

I know you don't talk about it with us and that's ok but a few days a month I'm not in such a great mood. I know you have said she takes meds to prevent her monthly but her hormones maybe can still go a little wonky? ..... Absolutely love you guys💖

[@mustlovedogs5569]

Oh she will love her guests arriving this week!!

[@wendystephan35]

Don't miss the Crazy Horse Memorial. It is not done but worth seeing their progress. It will dwarf Mt Rushmore when it is done. After you can check in yearly to see their progress. It's right around the corner from Rushmore.

[@carmenmarialinne2650]

Oh we all know how we have days that are sometimes awesome, sometimes tiring, sometimes boring when we travel. It is really natural. Some days on vacation I just want an afternoon to nap! Other days I can go full steam all day. Being 71 now I have finally learned to just accept the varied energy levels and moods on our trips. I makes it so much easier. Be grateful for all the fun and easy days! The rough days will pass. :)

[@nicoleraco636]

The look when you gave her that cheese. You've tried before and she did the same thing lol

[@mustlovedogs5569]

Do you have some days when Abby can decide what to do. Like eat a burger, go on her swing, go swimming etc. Perhaps incorporating some things from her school days like spending money at the gas station.

[@sadgorl]

“Turns out the lady at the dog park didn’t have snacks.” 😂😂🥰 I love Ab so much. Oh my gosh. The ending was the sweetest thing. I know having a little one who is “different” can make those so-called “normal” moments so emotional. They’re such little things for most, but for some those moments mean everything.

[@dmc414141]

My husband would love that movie set up where you watch Close Encounters of the Third Kind while Devils Tower is in the background! He love that movie. It was beautiful with the sunset in the background.

[@rosannacellini2158]

You guys are doing great and so is Abby! It's great she likes to socialize, in her own way, sweet girl. Cilla you look so cozy in the big recliner. Seeing the Devil's Tower, was awesome! Rest well. 😍🌃 🌜🙏

[@reinellenandrews9201]

Even with the challenges you have you still have the love and patients for her that just shows all of us have regular kid challenges yours is more of a challenge because you are always teaching i think you are great

[@coyotebait3689]

One thing I was thinking that you did not mention is she does have the mood swings at home for no reasons that you have mentioned in the past…. Maybe tomorrow you can help her paint.

[@nancygalle1379]

Thank you for taking us and showing different parts of the country

[@WikkidVyxen]

Oh man! I really expected the grocer to have a huge supply of mashed potatoes!

[@nadinecartwright1979]

I wondered if Abbie wanted an after meal walk when she immediately requested ride upon finishing dinner. Its a nice feeling to stroll after dinner.

[@Martzee]

Do you guys have a plan as of yet for when she’s a grown woman and you’ve aged? Will she stay with you? Or will you find a way to have some independence from eachother?

[@carolbellinger]

I try to tell my daughter all the time that our sweet phoebe needs to get out more. So we started taking her places.. we created a monster😂 now she wakes us up at 5 in the morning saying I want to go shopping. She not talking to us just saying what's on her mind. She will be 7 on halloween day this year. She has always been non verbal. But the past 4 months she has been saying sentences. She has never spoke one word. That first time I heard her say it I jumped out of bed and was like was that her!! She wants to go shopping!! Get up. Get her dressed..let's go...that girl talked in sentences all day.. hasnt said a word since.. is that normal??. How do we promote that?? I'm lost.😳

[@arthobbies]

Yes, i believe Abby seems to like a lot of things around, keeps her mind busy. When their is nothing to do maybe her mind gets bored and then it cause behavior issues.

[@crystaldesjardin4321]

Like us all

[@arthobbies]

@@crystaldesjardin4321 yep i get bored super easy.

[@melaniekeckler1630]

You should get some powdered milk for when you run out never spoils.

[@Kris-fi7co]

Have you ever tracked her moods in relation to when her shots are given? You may notice a trend, because I have experienced that as well.

[@lessehead]

What shots? She’s not an infant. How often do you think she gets shots?

[@WhitneyRebel]

@@lessehead depo I think they’re referring to

[@tammy707]

LOL who wants to be w the same person all the time. So funny! What if she had a picture of happy, sad, angry, faces…would that help? 🤷‍♀️

[@yowyo2006]

Sundance is about 30 miles from Devil's Tower and has a cute little grocery store called Deckers. Hulett has a small store as well (plus Captain Ron's Rodeo Bar, my cousin helps run it, her dad owned it until he passed). The closest Walmarts are in Spearfish and Gillette.

[@john0919681]

That is correct, the next city is either Gillette,WY or Sturgis, SD, about 60 miles.

[@yowyo2006]

@@john0919681 Sturgis doesn't have a Walmart and Spearfish is closer...Sturgis is on the east side of Spearfish.

[@cynthiabanks9012]

Devil Tower is beautiful 😊

[@rachelsebree8524]

Your such a cute Dad. My hubby is the same way with our 2 girls. I call him a baby for crying all the time but I love it..lol..

[@jamiematson6233]

You guys are doing a great job! She seemed really comfortable at your friends house. Maybe it was hard to transition from the house to being back on the road again?

[@purplegal597]

I was thinking the same thing! I’m noticing as that as Abby is getting older is turning into a homebody which is totally common ~ my autistic brother used to love going out and being on the go when he was younger and once he got older turned into loving being at home More ~ and doesn’t seem to like going out as much as she used to when she was younger so staying at the wee’s was probably heaven for her and more normal for her and didn’t want to leave

[@sandramcglinchey7712]

Asa I totally understand how a lunchabul is is a big day I f my son has done something amazing I give him them too!

[@brittajensen1479]

I love that Abbie tried the cheese in the back while you were talking and looking the other way. 😍 She didn't spit it out, but decided not to take another bit. 😊

[@JESGO2013]

My son was having the same issue with not wanting to keep shoes on. I checked his foot had a little splinter from not wearing the dang shoes. 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@mariposavioleta9007]

Through the years of watching you I have to say I'm inspired & blessed. The way you've been raising Abbie & Isaiah is amazing! I've seen so many over the years of training in the workplace and Abbie cleaning that table like she did was better than many of the ones I've seen that are neurotypical. I LOVE that you're teaching her to do things and giving her freedom and purpose in doing things for herself and contributing to the household chores etc. I think that anyone should pick up on the fact that nothing's gonna be perfect when on vaca and that's ok you're dealing with it and figuring things out. I'm proud of you guys

[@cherylbooth5649]

Abby does not care about rocks etc

[@minnie7700]

Maybe more exercise is the key, for all of you.

[@MissScrapAlot]

Who cares if she eats a lunchable for dinner….she eats very well bd eats many things…in the grand scheme of things it’s nothing….also my 38 yr old son till eats lunchables 🤣🤣🤣. She is human and has an array of emotions and can’t be video perfect every day…I can run the range of emotions all day with nothing wrong sometimes….she is rocking this trip!

[@blushkitten1]

Devils Tower is Stunning!

[@catalinaortoljo2821]

I wonder if the transitioning, albeit not perfect, is still somewhat better than having to continuously adjust to a different hotel, bed etc. every few days or so?

[@marianilsson4913]

Some days are tough no matter who you are and kids and teens goes bananas some times.

[@silviag1547]

You guys are so amazing! You make this place a better world ❤️

[@ashleigh6152]

Idk what day(s) you filmed the few days she was struggling, but we did just have that super full moon,🌕 that was one if the more intense of the year. I know you guys are all too aware on the phases affecting emotions, etc.

[@suzandramcketchnie849]

What do your camping neighbors think of abbies sounds?

[@cheyennehalliger5438]

Probably nothing much!