Whitney Kielwasser, mom to daughter Maria who has FASD, shares her self-care spots and offers advice to other special needs parent.s
Her happy hour spots:
“I love my girlfriend time. We like to try different spots. Just tried Shinsei, and it was really good. We also like Dunston’s and Cantina Laredo’s happy hour.”
Shinsei Restaurant // 7713 Inwood Road, Dallas; 214/352-0005; shinseirestaurant.com
Dunston’s Steak House // 5423 W. Lovers Lane, Dallas; 214/352-8320; 8526 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas; 214/637-3513; dunstonssteakhouse.com
Cantina Laredo // Multiple locations; cantinalaredo.com
Her self-care routines:
“I recently started going to the movies by myself, and I love it. And I love anything exercise-related, whether it’s the Pilates classes that I teach or riding my bike to clear my mind on the Northaven Trail. I also love to read.”
Northaven Trail // northaventrail.org
Her family time recipe:
“We just enjoy doing simple things together. It’s actually nice for us not to have plans on the weekend. We do enjoy getting pizza at Campisi’s as a family.”
Campisi’s // Multiple locations; campisis.us
Her parenting reminders:
- “I have to remind myself that it’s a slow process with Maria, and everything just takes a little longer. Be patient.”
- “I try to keep things simple and remember that whatever behavior she’s exhibiting is not her fault.”
Her latest reason to celebrate:
“Maria is taking the bus to school this year, which is a huge step for her towards more independence.”
