I saw you when you looked up with the familiar, inquisitive stare. When our eyes met, I noticed it.

Fear? Anxiety? Maybe so.

I know when you see us, we may look a little different, and we may act differently, too. When we walk through the grocery store aisles, or any public place, I usually hold my daughters hand, or she loops her arm through mine as we walk. She can tire easily and is easily distracted. Sometimes she makes loud noises not always words, but still, her way of expression. For her, a simple trip can be complicated. The lights, the noise, the people; they can be exhausting.

When she was just 2 or 3 years old, I dont think many people took notice, and we didnt receive all these curious looks. But she is 14 now. She has Down syndrome . She is awesome.