I know a lot of people left Tumblr because of the new restrictions but there were blogs there of people who are different genders and gender expression.

There are some closed groups on FB for people who are autistic and gender nonconforming/trans and there may be some secret groups. I could ask in the groups I'm in.

Not sure if A uses FB.

Pinterest can be a good source for make up and clothing ideas.

A is mostly about youtube, but I can show him some things and let him think about it. I'd appreciate it if you'd check, Askye, thanks.

Mom is at tax preparer...can I get some vibes for good news?

I follow this guy on YouTube, Deena. [link]

I haven't seen alls his vids so I can't vouch 100% for kid friendliness but the ones I've seen are pretty dang fun! And he features budget friendly brands.

We all just went to the Dollar Tree and they have Wet N Wild polish! So that was fun. A says he doesn't need any colors right now, but now we know where to find them.

Lisah, thanks! I've got it marked so I can check it out with A later.

Good news vibes, Erika.

Deena, you're such a good mom! I can't believe A is sixteen! I delurked when you were pregnant with him!

Thanks, sj.

I was recently diagnosed with DID, so I'm kind of juggling a lot right now -- we're all figuring things out, and I don't know who they are anymore than I know who I am, I guess. I figure we can all learn together.

Deena, you always have so much on your plate. Lots of love.

I figure we can all learn together.

Exactly. And you will.

My niece who stayed with me to help when the boys were tiny just had her own baby. She decided at ~42 that she wanted to be a mom, after saying never for the previous decades. She had been the eldest of 6 and felt she had done the mom thing enough. Also said she would never marry, and she didn't. She went the science route to get pregnant. And long story shortened a bit, she was bemoaning the people/books/articles that call her a failure for not having any luck breastfeeding and giving up. I felt bad because it had been so easy for me and I had no bottles when she lived with me because the kids were always with me.

I've tried to express to her that there is only one thing that child needs from her and that is the abundance of unconditional love she is providing. Yes, naturally she is going to feed, clothe, and shelter the child, because love. Our children know if we are doing the best we can and when they are loved. That is all that matters.

My parents weren't perfect. Dad was a brilliant eccentric weirdo who didn't understand kids or how to relate to them. Mom was super naive and easily manipulated by her kids. But 100% I know they loved us unconditionally and did the very best they could. I don't have to forgive them for the mistakes or failings, because I always felt safe and loved.

All good parents suffer over feelings of inadequacy, so much time spent suffering over which decision is best. I'm grateful that at this point in life I am over that. I wasn't the perfect parent, and my kids aren't perfect, but they and I know that I did the best I could, and they know without a doubt that they are loved.

So many wonderful Buffista parents here. It brings me joy to see your children thrive under your loving care.

eta: and surprisingly only one typo in that!

Time is tight in the Shirlands and I can't write as much as I want and should, but I just wanted to pop in and say that all of you have my love and health~ma. I think of you often.