We knew then that Sawyer was a miracle baby, but we had no idea exactly how special he truly was. It would be almost 2 years later that we found out he had autism, and it changed our lives. We had no idea what the future held for Sawyer or for us, but looking back on our life since Sawyer completed our family, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Sawyer often tells me he feels like a failure, or that he feels like he’s stupid. He has told me multiple times now that he doesn’t know why he’s even alive. I tell him “God doesn’t make mistakes, and He made you because He thought the world needed one of you.” What I don’t tell Sawyer is that I feel like a failure because I can’t just magically make him feel better.
Like a lot of people, I love spreading the word when I find something that I think is awesome. Whether it’s a great recipe, a new makeup item I can’t live without, a super cute shirt that’s flattering and affordable, or a product that makes life easier for me and my family.
After giving it a lot of thought, I’ve decided to move to Tennessee. Not only will it allow me to be at more of Caitlyn’s events and competitions, it will bring my children back together and give Sawyer more time to spend with his dad.
All three of the kids are really thriving this year. I sit back and think about them sometimes, and how each one of my kids is so different but so alike, too, and I feel so proud of them for everything they are and all that they do in their daily lives.
God has used Sawyer to help me be a better mother and person, and I believe it’s part of my life’s purpose to help educate others and advocate for him and others like him; that’s why I write this blog.
Our blended family may be strange for everyone around us, but we don’t care. Everyone has their own “normal”, and this is ours.
With an unexpected move, a family vacation, and Christmas, our little family has had quite the chaotic month!!
Being a parent is hard, and watching your child struggle is even harder, but I’m happy to see the happy glow radiating from my baby girl’s smile these days!
Our goal is to help share support and resources with families like ours. ♥
We love sharing when we find awesome places and things! Click the heart to check out a bunch of stuff our family loves!
Vanderbilt Kennedy Center is a very special place to our family. It’s where Sawyer was first diagnosed with autism, and it was through their incredible programs and research that he first received the therapy he needed to thrive. Our current political administration has pulled funding that pays for progams and services that help families like ours. Please consider donating to VKC to help others continue to receive the vital programs and services needed to help them succeed.
© Chicken Nugs and Mama Hugs 2025. All rights reserved.
