Our Five Ring Circus: Life With Down Syndrome

Life With Down Syndrome

On August 18, 2013, we received an incredible gift. That gift was our 4th child, Liam, who was born rocking an extra chromosome!

Our birth diagnosis rocked our world, but we adjusted to our new normal rather quickly. If you found your way here because you are feeling lost or you are new on this journey, I just want to say three things: First, and most important, CONGRATULATIONS on your new baby! Second, every single emotion that you are feeling is 100% normal. It's okay to grieve. It's okay to be angry. And it's okay if you are celebrating. Finally, welcome to the club!

Down syndrome is like a club I never imagined I would ever want to join, but now that I'm here, I never want to leave.  Liam changed us.  He brought our family closer, strengthened friendships, and brought incredible people into our lives.  He is full of love, beauty, innocence, and joy, and he brightens our every day! Because of Liam, we choose joy always. He taught us how to truly love!

Parenting a child who has Down syndrome is not all rainbows and unicorns, but it can be surprisingly normal! This blog is NOT strictly a Down syndrome blog. I began blogging 6 years before Liam was even born, and not only did he seamlessly fit into our family, but his story became entwined in ours. 

Liam and I are on a mission to show the world that Down syndrome is NOTHING to fear! Through my parenting and lifestyle posts, I hope you will be able to see just how normal life with Down syndrome can really be! We hope to break all the common misconceptions about Down syndrome, and show you the TRUE reality!

START HERE:



Down syndrome

Click on the following links to read more!



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Nothing To Fear!

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Sorry?  We're Not Sorry!

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Aim to Inspire

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31 Facts Everyone Should Know About Down Syndrome Paired with 31 Pictures Guaranteed to Make You Smile

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Why I Fought To Breastfeed My Baby Who Has Down Syndrome

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Should I Redshirt My Child (Who Has Down syndrome) for Kindergarten...or not?

Should I Redshirt My Child Who Has Down Syndrome For Kindergarten...Or Not? #downsyndrome #kindergarten #specialneeds #school

Liam, on the big screen, in Times Square

National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) 2015 Times Square Video

This Beautiful Boy

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 Holland Tour Guide

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Liam Takes Over (Life with Down Syndrome)

 He killed it with the cuteness today! So many cute shots for a Valentine's Day card and his 17 month blog post. The Valentine's Day bow tie from @lollyludesigns was perfect!

Since That Post (The One That Went Viral)

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 They Said WHAT?!?

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5 comments:

  1. This was the most beautiful birth story that I've ever read. I have tears over here. Tears of joy. He's beautiful. :) Thank you for sharing.

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  2. Stefanie... I just found you because you commented on my blog (beyond the curls). This is the sweetest story. You wrote that so beautifully, and I can feel your emotions... You have such a beautiful family! So happy I found you. :) Have a great weekend!

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  3. When I first looked at some of the pictures of Liam I couldn't even tell he had down syndome. He looks like such a happy and healthy little man to me :) All your children are beautiful. I know plenty of children with down syndome and non of seem to have such a loving family as yours looks. Liam has three big protectors to help him go through life. Thank you for sharing your story and I hope more mothers and fathers look past their childrens flaws and focus on everything beautiful in them like you both have done with Liam. :)

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  4. What a beautiful story full of love and honesty. It is obvious you were hand picked by God to be Liam's mommy.

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  5. Liam's birth is a beautiful story. You are an amazing mom and I love how raw your emotions are in this. I hate when people sugar coat it. I love the realness in this. Thank you so much for sharing this. Liam is handsome and definitely a blessing.

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