Packing w/a #specialneeds child.. #Cruising2026

We are heading on a cruise. Our 3rd as a family, but the last time we went was pre-covid back in 2018. Our first was 2016, with a good friend that was a great extra helping hands; and she's coming again this time around - we are leaving May 24th, Boston to Bermuda; it's an easy port to get to and return from..and we are pretty excited.

The last time we went Grace was 7, and now she's 14! Still alot of lists and things to remember to pack, but it can be done. I just pray for a great time.. good family QT and that Grace has fun, is not bored and her BM's are contained.. (that's the sh** I worry about.. tell me your a #specialneedsmom without telling me you are!

I've already got her suitcase packed, but then again last night added a few more short-sleeve shirts and took out a bathing suit.

Packed thus far:

14 pairs of boy shorts (longer ones, I figured 2 a day with dress changes, 7 days)

10-14 short sleeves

2 dresses, 1 romper

7 pairs of socks, okay to wear 1 more than once

2 bathing suits

1 re-usable swimmie diaper

1 pair of nylon/water shoes

2 pairs of sneakers (1 she likes the best & comfortable)

1 sweatshirt

3 crop pants (for those cool evenings on the balcony)

6 undershirts

12 handkerchief bibs

a semi longer sleeve shirt

... and that's just for Grace in one suitcase. Non-clothes, 6 feed bags, 1 xtra set of extensions for gtube; and bed chucks.

In another suitcase, 32 diapers, 28 bottles of formula, 4x4 split sponges, tape care for gtube area; her medical ointment & nystantin cream; body lotion, sunscreen; tylenol & ibuprofren (just in case); daily meds.

Don't forget the stroller. Don't forget the syringes for water throughout the day, small and big ones. What else am I missing?

oh yea, Mama - don't forget to pack for yourself!

Next time you have to pack and thing it's such a chore, say a prayer for a Special Needs Mom..who is putting all this together & more.

All in all.. it'll be a fun trip! Thankful we can do it!

pattie