Lindsay together with her family
Whether it be the same personality, family background or interests, these connections usually lead to lifetime friendships.
This is how I felt two years ago when I met Lindsay Baronoskie at a Lake Highlands Area Early Childhood PTA (LHAECPTA) meeting.
I thought it very appropriate that I introduce our readers to this fabulous wife, mother and community volunteer.
Lindsay Baronoskie has only lived in Lake Highlands for about 4 years, but she's already made a lasting impression.
Originally from Austin, this University of Texas alumnus is the wife to Alan Baronoskie and mother to three beautiful children, twins Lauren and Mallory and son Owen.
In addition to being a wife and mother, Lindsay is a community volunteer and owner of Cherished Lens Photography.
After her twins were born, as most mothers do, she was constantly snapping their pictures.
"I took so many pictures of them. People started asking me to take pictures of their children, and they offered to pay me. I invested in a good camera and then came the business."
Lindsey is involved in several local organizations that are dear to her heart.
In addition to serving on the Merriman Park Elementary PTA board, she is also a board member with Alexander’s Village HOA, a member of the LHAECPTA, Alpha Phi Alumnae officer, and a Girl Scouts Daisy Troop co-leader. She is also a supporter of the American Heart Association.
"I know I’m not going to cure cancer or heart disease, but the difference I can make is with my family," says Lindsay.
"I can start the positive change with my family and then with the community. My children can see me involved and realize that it’s not always about them, and that it’s important to give back."
Just like most moms will tell you, Lindsay’s priority is always trying to do what’s best for her kids.
When she noticed that her son Owen might have delayed speech, she took action. Turns out he has a sensory processing disorder and struggles with auditory processing.
"We noticed his speech delay and difficulties when he was a couple of years old. His pediatrician kept saying not to worry because he had two older sisters, and they probably did all the talking for him."
"But my mom instinct said I should be concerned. When he turned 3, I contacted RISD, and they set up an evaluation.”
During the evaluation process, Lindsey learned that many kids with sensory processing disorder are sometimes misdiagnosed and medicated for ADHD.
Lindsay and her husband decided to enroll Owen in a PPCD class (Preschool Programs for Children with Disabilities) at Whiterock Elementary. There, he gets the speech therapy he needs and constant support and interaction from his teachers and his peers.
Owen started the program at age 3½ and, according to Lindsay, he's improved immensely in his speech abilities and his sensory processing.
From one mother to another, it was only relevant for me to ask Lindsay how she balances family, giving back and "me time."
"Family is always first," she says. "I prioritize tasks with each volunteer position and paid work after my family. I keep the kids interested in their own things, so they won’t drive me crazy!"
"As for me, I re-energize by gardening and photographing nature at places like the Arboretum… by myself!"
That a girl!
For those interested in learning more about PPCD, please visit their website here.
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