How My Daughter (and Our ADHD Brains) Inspired Friendly AF and Chaela’s Corner
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If you looked at my browser tabs, you’d probably think I had twelve jobs and a hobby in every category—and you’d be right, kind of. I’ve always joked that I had ADHD, because my brain moves a mile a minute and I’m always doing the most. While I’ve never been formally diagnosed, I’ve always known my mind worked differently—messy, creative, curious, intuitive, and constantly swirling.
But it wasn’t until my daughter Michaela entered my life that ADHD stopped being a funny “quirk” and started becoming something real, powerful, and deeply personal.
ADHD Isn’t a Flaw — It’s a Superpower
There’s a lot of stigma around ADHD—like it’s some kind of defect or disadvantage. But if you’ve ever loved someone with an ADHD brain (or lived with one yourself), you know better. ADHD isn’t broken—it’s brilliant.
It’s energy.
It’s creativity.
It’s noticing every detail in a room.
It’s having a gajillion ideas before breakfast.
It’s building your own path because the usual one never fit right.
Sure, it comes with challenges—executive dysfunction, sensory overload, mental fatigue—but it also comes with magic. When you learn to support an ADHD brain, not fight it? That’s when the magic really shows up.
Michaela reminds me of that every day. She’s vibrant, curious, emotionally deep, and beautifully wired in her own way. She experiences the world with her whole heart—and she’s taught me to see my own brain with more compassion too.
Why I Created Friendly AF
I’m an introvert and a tee collector. I love tees that say exactly what I’m thinking—especially when I don’t feel like explaining myself out loud. A shirt that says “Be Kind” or “Doing My Best” often speaks louder than words ever could.
So when I dreamed up Friendly AF, I wanted more than a store—I wanted a vibe. I wanted something that felt supportive, bold, and true. A brand that celebrates friendship, mental health, humor, and identity… all with a side of comfy tees, cool mugs, and gifts that say the thing.
Enter: Chaela’s Corner (Michaela’s Corner of the Store)
As I worked on the store, one thought kept coming back: How do I include Michaela in this? She’s the most important part of my life and the reason I’ve learned so much about neurodivergence, patience, advocacy, and joy.
That’s how Chaela’s Corner was born — Michaela’s very own corner of the shop, filled with products inspired by her world. Think ADHD-friendly tools, visual aids, empowering messages for kids, sensory-aware finds, and gear that helps kids like her (and moms like me) navigate the world a little easier.
This collection is for the curious, the squirmy, the daydreamers, the deep feelers. It’s for the kids who ask 500 questions before breakfast, and the moms trying to answer at least three of them while drinking cold coffee. It’s for us.
A Growing Store, Fueled by Real Life
Friendly AF is still new, and I’m constantly dreaming up new tee ideas—because let’s be honest, my brain never stops. They’ll be making their way to the shop little by little, so definitely check back often.
Michaela and I are always discovering fun tools, visuals, and sensory-friendly finds that help her navigate this big, neurotypical world—and when we find something that works, we want to share it. If you come across anything cool or helpful, please reach out! We love recommendations and believe that community makes us stronger.
What You’ll Find Here (And Why You’ll Want to Stay)
This blog — Neurospicy & Friendly AF — is where I’ll share:
- Honest stories about parenting a neurodivergent child
- ADHD tips, tools, and lessons learned
- Product spotlights from Friendly AF and Chaela’s Corner
- Encouragement for moms, introverts, creatives, and anyone who feels like they’re “too much”—or not enough
Whether you’re here for the ADHD-friendly products, real-life parenting moments, or just need to feel seen—you’re in the right place.
Let’s Be Friendly AF Together
If you’re here, you probably get it—or you want to. Either way, welcome. I’m so glad you’re part of this story.
And Michaela? She’d want you to know that you’re awesome just the way you are.
– Marian
Founder, Friendly AF + Chaela’s Corner