If you missed it, here's part one of this blog here: https://lesliefontanilla.com/blog/29154/so-grateful-for-my-partner-in-believing-crystal-pt-1-

The change that I noticed in Damian has been the biggest impact for me.  The first time we went over he did not want to give me any space even though their yard is bigger than my apartment.  He would check on me constantly and his tantrums were almost unbearable.  Aunty Crystal stepped up and was able to speak his language and give me space to process and release as well.  Now Damian knows Auntys is a safe space for him and us.  With their toys and big trampoline and animals there’s always a ton to do and explore and create.  Now he never wants to leave and when we haven’t visited in awhile he will ask, “When are we going to Aunty’s?!”

The biggest tool we’ve taken away so far is the shift your shiitake strategy.  It comes back to check our own energy, seeing how it affects others and taking responsibility and accountability for our actions.  Damian is so much better now at using his words. There’s a kid sized red shift your shiitake chair that D used a few times. When he has big feelings he sits there and calms down and processes the situation. It’s like a mindful and graceful personal time out.  

My son and I are both highly sensitive people and to process our big feelings in a way and place that feels good is so different.  In the past I was told my feelings were wrong or too much and basically, I was too much to handle.  Seeing him expressing himself and gaining confidence and courage to know it's ok to have feelings as long as we don’t hurt others or ourselves in the process.  We are all weird and different in our own way and that’s our superpower. 

Feeling safe to open up and be ourselves completely and without judgement with unconditional love is so huge and has been a game changer for us.  Now Damian and I are closer than ever before. We are having more conversations and having more fun together. Everyday is a work in progress and I am just so grateful for Crystal’s guidance and support and I know we will be partners in believing for this lifetime and our impact will be felt for generations to come by taking of ourselves first and giving ourselves the love we need and deserve so we can help more families do the same.  

If you loved this and would love more I invite you to hop into my group, All Heart and Hopeful Resilient Moms for more.  It's where I'm hosting my next challenge Bye Mean Girl Bye starting November 7th and then saved in the guides section forever more.   <3


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My Story

 
Hi, I’m Leslie — your travel BFF. ✈️🌺
I’m a travel advisor with over 4 years of experience helping families, couples, and groups plan vacations that feel exciting instead of overwhelming.
I specialize in Hawaiʻi, Disney, cruises, family travel, and tropical getaways, and I love helping clients find the trip that actually fits their style, budget, and needs.
I’m based in Hawaiʻi and bring both personal travel experience and professional training into the planning process. Whether you’re dreaming about a cruise, a Disney vacation, a tropical escape, or something completely different, I’m here to help make the planning easier from start to finish.
Travel should feel fun — not stressful. 💕



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