Otto took to the skies—literally—on his first discovery flight in a vintage 1949 Stinson. Otto’s enthusiasm lit up the sky, as Barry Prizant reminds us in Uniquely Human, these passions aren’t quirks—they’re lifelines—and for this little boy flight isn’t just an enthusiasm—it’s belonging.

When my son Otto slips into the water, he becomes an octopus—fearless, curious, and completely himself. Today, in a pool far bigger than our own, he found courage, friendship, and a sense of belonging that made him weightless in every way that matters.

Ocean State Kids is deeply grateful to Sofia Sinclair and her family’s restaurant, YaiYai’s Cafe in Middletown, RI, for their generous donation. Sofia, an inspiring mother, entrepreneur, and longtime supporter, embodies wholehearted wellness and community. Her thoughtful gift fuels our mission, reminding us that the greatest growth often comes from friendship, shared values, and the courage to start fresh—from scratch.

What began with a 3:30 a.m. rocket launch turned into a day of quiet firsts and unexpected magic. From patient instructions to shadow goodbyes, from skydiving airplane mechanics to surprise playdates with puppy love —my neurodivergent son let the world in, one small moment at a time. And just when I thought the day had given us everything—it ended with an orange soda kiss that reminded me why I keep going.

This space isn’t just about play—it’s about presence. It’s about coming back to ourselves. The forest now holds a new kind of magic—one where both child and parent are seen, heard, and held.

Moments like this allow children to study the world with the depth and intensity they crave. And they provide children with a sense of belonging. It was another reminder that when kids are trusted to lead, they’ll take flight. Sometimes literally.

But here’s what I’ve come to believe: we don’t lose ourselves in motherhood—we evolve. Motherhood doesn’t erase who we are; it chisels away what isn’t needed and slowly reveals who we were meant to become all along.

Last night was our first-ever Nature Guardian meeting: a gathering of the most passionate, invested, wildly brave parents who have shaped Ocean State Kids into what it is today.

an invitation to slow down and reconnect with the mothers of the Ocean State Kids community, once a month.