One Day at a Time

Back to School: Routines and Schedules

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 20:01:00 +0000

Today was my oldest son's first day of High School. Time has flown by! This will be a schedule that all of the family will have to get used to. I will most likely hear from BP when I pick him up from school today: "Where are we going? Can we go home?" It's almost certain, especially when are driving an unusual route that he is not familiar with. But after a few times he should be okay with it. It's the homework routine after school that's the kicker, but that is for my next post. Stay tuned.

Happy Labor Day Holiday!

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 16:01:00 +0000

Happy Labor Day everyone. Please make it best of what ever you choose to do today. Even if it just sitting down with your family to play a simple board game. Our family will just enjoy a mostly relaxed day. We usually don't do much. Doing something socially is a big outing that needs to be planned and told to BP way before. Over stimulation is a biggie. Also where we reside, EVERYONE usually heads to the beach. Crowds of people and BP don't mix. I don't think I works for me either. Tip for today: If you do go out and if your child is like mine, don't extend your welcome. When they have had enough, it's time to go.

I guess I should reintroduce myself, since it's been so long. I am a 40-something Mom of two wonderful boys, My oldest is starting his first day of High School tomorrow and BP (I will refer to my son using his intitials for privacy reasons) who has ASD is in the 4th grade now. He is verbal and a very funny boy who loves the computer,Godzilla, and other monstrous creatures. That is just a shorten version. I started this blog back when Brendan was just beginning Kindergarten. He has been in the same school district and I know I am fortunate when I say that his school district is Awesome. I feel for many of you parents that are constantly struggling with all the red tape of trying to place your children in a school that will suit them and you! My advice:

Please don't give up.
Be an advocate for your children.
Do your research.

Enjoy the Holiday with your family today because tomorrow is just another day. Take care.

My Triumphant Return is coming...

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 02:13:00 +0000

I am not new to blogging nor I am new to procrastination. I am on facebook daily and I would like to post about my experiences of raising a family. I want my blog to be a reflection of who I am, not have to minimize my feelings and try to connect again with other Moms and Dads of special needs families. Being a mother of a child with Autism is quite the challenge and I need a place to vent, share experiences, and maybe help some other parents who are new to the world of Autism. On my personal FB page I am careful not to whine or complain, but man some days are just (insert word here). So with that being said I soon will be up and running. Forgive my long absence. I attend to make a FB page for my personal blog as well. Please be patient and excuse the mess. :) Have a great evening.

It's that time of year...

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 19:12:00 +0000

Yep, cold and flu season. You know when something's up when BP just wants to snuggle with you on the sofa. That happened on Sunday. I asked him of he wanted a blanket. "yes" and from then on he stay there curled up and gradually becoming warmer. I told my other half that I thought he wasn't feeling good and coming down with something.

It's a strange notion when children with autism become sick. As parents we are so used to heightened activity, constant movement, that really we don't what to do with ourselves! So this week he was out of school Monday and Tuesday. Ouch. We all know what that means. Returning to school is a major accomplishment. It's quite funny, BP doesn't do Mondays, Tuesdays are just okay, Wednesdays are an improvement, Thursdays are good and by Fridays he is ready to start the week. Maybe it is because they have fun Fridays at school in his class. Do you think?

We do struggle with school issues, but I must say that this year is much better than last year. Change of teacher and change of school might have something to do with his improvement. I have problems here at home with homework. He simply doesn't want to do it. Don't mention the "h" word, but he usually beats me to it! He flat out tells me, "no homework!"

Meltdowns: those happen less now, but we still have many issues such as food, scheduling, overstimulation, potty issues, communication (I find that the most frustrating part for me).

Since my year long absence we have working on the food issue. This summer I was able to have an Nutritionist from our Regional Center here and evaluate BP. He is overweight and needs to loose some pounds. Sometimes I wonder why he doesn't loose weight easily. BP is CONSTANTLY moving and loves to play outdoors. His favorite activity at school is adaptive PE. The food issue became a problem when what I gave him wasn't enough. He would still be hungry and ask for more. It got to certain point where if I didn't give him the food he wanted, major meltdown would occur. Of course being the Mother, I was tired of the meltdowns and gave in to his wants. MY BAD. The Nutritionist suggested I reduce the amt of food I serve him and see what happens. She also suggested trying to sneak in veggies with the meal. BP is very picky as most children with Autism are. He likes about 5 different kinds of food and won't try much else. We don't deviate much from his meals on the weekends, but he is good about some foods at school. His weekend lunch will consist of White cheese(cottage cheese), cheese crackers, fruit snacks and juice. Lately he has been on this kick of replacing the white cheese with those yogurts with the Oreo cookie crumbs.

This particular post is just shortened version of things to come. He's been invited to a birthday party, it would be his first one to attend, but I am not sure whether he will go. Being sick this week has made me have second thoughts. Not sure I want him bouncing for two hours and becoming over stimulated. Becoming tired his behavior tends to escilate. I will let you all know what the outcome is.

Welcome Back!

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 20:11:00 +0000

Welcome back to Earth. I have returned from my long absence from this wonderful blog that I have so neglected. I have to apologize for being gone so long. It's one of those long list of "got to do's" that just wasn't done. How is that for contractions?

I decided that I need to reconnect with the people, places of my son's journey with Autism. It's something that holds so strong in my heart and I want to share my thoughts, feelings and seek advice from those who taking the same journey.

It is nice to be home. My life is different from whence I came. So is my BP (for privacy purposes) I have to decided to call my son (BP) in this blog. He has made much progress, but still has many milestones to go. Officially diagnosed at 7, he is nine now and is doing well in public school in a Special Ed classroom. As most of you can relate to, special education means changing schools frequently. Just to find the suitable school for your child. That is another journey and another post.

Me, I am still figuring out this parenting thing. Nor will I ever. My motto still stands as, "One Day at a Time"
Chaos is my middle name. Sometimes I wonder why I still have hair left. Any of you wonder the same?

BP and company (my eldest son in middle school, that could be another blog :)) are the center of my world.

I am back now and I am happy to make connections, friends and share my daily musings with everyone. Please comment of you like and stop by to say "hi". I love comments and enjoy any you have to say! Declare the love.

Have a great day,

Aspiring Creations: Got the Itch, but can't Scratch

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 21:25:00 +0000

Aspiring Creations: Got the Itch, but can't Scratch

It's finally coming together

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 22:24:00 +0000

After three long years of truly not having an "official" Autism diagnosis, we finally have one. It's such a relief. Now that he has been diagnosed everything is starting to come together, I can start the long process of trying to get services for Brendan outside of the educational realm. I have to thank thank his school for helping, but I think it was do to the fact that I contacted the local Regional Center here. My phone call began it all and with the help of a referral from Brendan's doctor I might have not gotten anywhere. So it begins: more assessments, tests, etc. I have IEP's up to my neck and I am swimming in paperwork. About two weeks ago I met with a case worker and they wanted to bring Brendan so they could observe and ask him a few questions. I was SO nervous because the fears of having to take Brendan out of his comfort zone would drive any Mother of a child with Autism anxious. This was the first step of several to see if he will even qualify for services. Isn't that a laugh, he is clearly qualified but of course they must deal with all the other parents who apparently abuse the system just to get services. Anyway, that is another story in itself.

On Monday I had what I thought to be his triannual IEP. Not the case, it served two purposes: first, this was just a LONG two hour addendum to his IEP we had in May. It also served as an excused to fax all the documentation I needed to detemine elgibility for the Regional Center. Come to find out that they have recommended he be moved to a different school and of course a different class. I will touch more on a future post. But I walked out of there truly brain-fried. Nothing like putting a dent in your day, eh?

Have Another blog

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 21:17:00 +0000

I decided to write a short post and inform you of a fairly new blog. It's my creative side. I am having fun and trying to start a new venture, but it will take some time.

Many things personally have gone on in my life for the better and I haven't given up yet on this blog, but it will be a long time coming. I only have this blog and this other one now. Much easier to manage.

Please have a look at my newest blog and Iwill be writing soon.

Different Avenues

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 23:52:00 +0000

The author of this blog has decided to take a leave of absence as of June 20, 2009. I need to focus on other avenues. Everytime I would think about writing it became too much of a task and I figure I need to take care of myself first before I can try and help others. I must think about the my family's future. Thanks you for all the support and for the others on the opposite end... Take care. I will read everyone's else blogs! Thank you again.

Time to Breathe

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 20:48:00 +0000

It's been awhile since I've posted. Today seemed like a good day to write a little and take a breather. My new job is going well. The boy that I shadow is 9 and in the third grade. Hasn't been officially diagnosed yet, but he might have PDD, Autism and definitely ADHD. One day last week was rough one for him because apparently, Mom forgot his meds. That happens at times so Mom came and picked him up. It's interesting to see some similiarities with this child and my son. I have been working now a little over a week and still getting to know his quibes (if that's a word). Still getting used to the schedule as well, with the silly time change AND having to get up earlier.

Brendan is doing well. His days seem to be improving where he is right on task and then of course when something sets him off, BINGO! I have to tell you this cute story. When I go and pick up Brendan from school there is a dirt/pebble parking lot that I park my car in. You can see the play structure from the parking lot. Lately his class will go out for free time at the end of the day at the play structure. Brendan can see me pull up and park "mommy's red car" and I usually wait for the time to walk to his class. So Brendan while at the sturture, peers through the fence and works his way down the fence to watch out for me and "yells" Why isn't Mommy getting out ?!" Thought that was rather cute!

Other news: Took my final test for the CSET in Math and Science on Saturday. It's a test to obtain your teaching credential in CA. 5 hours of racking my brain. Will let you all know how I did when I get my scores in four weeks.

Cheers.

Good News!

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 19:17:00 +0000

Well It's happened...I have a accepted a position as Instructional Assistant for Special Education at a nice K-8 public school. I will be 1:1 in Special Ed Class of 7 who are grades K-4. This is ED (emotional disturbed) class. Not sure when I will start. It's only part-time so I still have time with my boys. This week I have been getting all the pre-employment stuff done. Yesterday I had a physical which required me to lift 50lbs. Today my body isn't liking it. I can barely walk! Every step is monumental!

This, for me folks is a step ahead and a new beginning. I know that some Moms are able to stay home full-time with their children, so they can be there for them and raise them to the best of their ability and I do know some, my hat goes off to you. I simply don't have that choice. I have to work, to provide a life for Brendan and his brother that he needs. He needs a place to play outside and to run, we don't have that here. I do take him to the park every weekend, but I would have to invest in one of those child locator's or else I would never see him again. My list is long. I think of Brendan's future and it scares the H#)) out of me.

This new beginning will eventually provide me opportunities I never knew existed. I am still working on my teaching credential and that's my goal is to become a teacher. So with that said I must get ready for a oral exam today, yet with another school district. This is for placement on a list for employment. All I can do is take one day at a time. =)

Cheers Everyone.

TGIF (Thank God I'm Finished)

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:50:00 +0000

Hi There,

I made it through another week. My kids gave me a nasty cold with that always turns into a sinus infection. With those I would like to hide in my bed. Not. Like clockwork I get one about every three months. Yesterday was my job interview. I believe it went rather well. It's a position in a classroom of seven children with ED (emotional distrubances) Ranging from grades K-4. I would be 1:1 with one of those students. At this point I would be happy with anything. As I said on my other blog. It's the survival of the fittest these days. Even Walmart seems expensive and that's bad. My sense of humor for some reason has left the building and I know it will return sometime soon.

I do have the say that Brendan has been doing awesome these days. I have heard nothing but positive things from his classroom. That makes me a very proud Mom. (she's grinning now from ear to ear) :) Haven't figured out how to put those smiley things in my posts yet. One thing we haven't figured out yet is how to make Brendan pee in the toilet instead of all over the bathroom floor. This is certainly a work in progress.

Cheers Everyone and Happy Friday.

I'd better write something (she smiles)

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 19:56:00 +0000

Please don't come running after me with a stick. I know I have been out too long. I am having some battles in my life and surprising enough it has nothing really to do with my children. But I just wanted to make note of the National News and the latest story regarding Autism. I am sure you have heard all the hub-bub about the dreaded "V" word , relating to the "A" word. Me? My honest opinion is that if your Son or Daughter has Autism, it's a true blessing in disguise. I wouldn't have it any other way and I have never given it a second thought. But that's just my opinion and I am stickin' to it.

On the lighter side: I have a nasty cold that my both my kids gave me and I took a Merit exam for employment with a school district this morning. We will see how that turns out. I also have an interview with another School District next Thursday. Wish Me Luck!

Brendan's Body Art - Poop Style

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 20:52:00 +0000

I know that most of us as parents with Autistic children have dealt with bathroom issues far more than we ever imagined. Average Parents who have babies or toddlers, talk about "poop," but it ceases in a couple of years when they are potty trained or otherwise. They ain't seen nothin' as the saying goes.

Lately when Brendan has been using the potty, (he is fully potty trained as of last year at 6) and when he needs to go number two, he becomes very quiet. I used to step away out of the bathroom, and return to check on him a few moments later. Well NOT anymore. When he becomes silent, I know that he has become the artist (artist's have to concentrate on their work you know) and the medium he uses is "the yucky-smelling brown stuff." Yesterday I stepped out of the bathroom to start preparing dinner and I returned to Brendan in the bathroom. "The body Artist" took his poop and smeared it all over his entire stomach and the upper half of his legs. "Wonderful Art!" Of course immediately he goes into the bath and he is done with his art project of the day.

Anybody else have body artists with poop as the medium? I have heard of the "wanna-be monkey's who fling their poop. Sorry I don't think the art galleries would find it amusing, but as a Mom, it's just one day out of 365!

A Big Thank You

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 20:20:00 +0000

I just want to thank all the friends I have met through blogging. I received my first award for one of my other blogs today from a friend, rainbowmummy. She has been with me through the thick and thin. My support when I didn't really know what to say. I have been helping her when the cookies are down, when actually she has been helping me! My intention at the other blog is to help other parents through all the icky stuff with raising special needs children and be the positive one.

But I just wanted to say "thanks" for being there and when I am at my wits end, your blogs are where I turn to.

Refreshing Fridays and the Rain

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 18:51:00 +0000

Well it's Friday and I look forward to Fridays. It's not like I have something big to look forward to for the weekend, but I know that Saturday is coming, it's refreshing and it is also rainy and wet outside. Not a heavy rain, but a very light shower. The smell of the rain hits the air it is such a nice feeling.

Brendan had a good week. Staying on the positive end of the spectrum. Maybe because the rain finally came today. The forecasters have been predicting it for a few days now. I believe someone in the Autism world stated that there might be this odd connection between rain and Autism. Brendan is a lover of the rain, the cloudy sky that comes with it and most of all tornadoes. Yep, tornadoes. He's the family meteorologist. Every time there is a cloud in the sky that resembles something of a funnel cloud. Brendan will burst with excitement and claim "Mommy, look it's a tornado!" In far clear language then he speaks most of the time. We reside in Southern California and we do not receive much rain here. The closest thing that resembles a tornado is their bedroom. Imagine though if we lived in the mid-west, our life would be taken straight from "Twister." The majority of us would be running for our lives towards the nearest shelter and Brendan would want to stay outside and "watch" the tornado approach whatever building it seeks to destroy in its path.

On that note, Brendan is very happy and excited when it rains and seems content to stand outside for hours if he could in the rain and watch the sky. Welcome Friday and the rain. What a happy feeling it is for all. :)

Awesome Days

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:50:00 +0000

Ever since the return to school, everyday for Brendan has been more than positive. He seems to be learning by leaps and bounds! As I wait for Brendan outside his classroom (I don't feel it necessary to walk inside the classroom and become a distraction for him) and he comes bounding out yelling "Mommy, mommy", with his arms open wide, I never know what kind of day he had. For the past two weeks his Aid has said, "He had an awesome day today!" He seems to be willing to do his work, no meltdowns, (we did have a little instance where someone in his class was too close for comfort and he decided to throw a pencil at them.) With Autism you never seem to know what kind of a day your child will have. But at this moment things seem to be moving along nicely. We are even getting the concept of telling time. He may not be able to write an appropriate looking hour/minute hand but he understands the concept rather well. For awhile there I thought nothing was working, he simply refused to do much of anything for me or at school. The homework battle has become much better. He is understanding now that if he does his homework he will be able to play on the computer, play his DS or Wii.

Such awesome days at school make awesome days at home.

My place in life is maybe my shortcoming. "A blessing in disguise."

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 19:47:00 +0000

Have been reading posts today of other Autism blogs and it got me to thinking..., I did look up information on "Traditional Irish Soda Bread" and we are doing it all wrong. But that's another post.

My story is actually pretty ironic. About seven years ago I had this inclination to work in the schools to grab experience for my eventual teaching credential, that I have yet to obtain. So I decided to become a Substitute teacher and I found it to be quite overwhelming. At this time my first Son Connor was about 2 or 3 years of age. But I didn't stop there, I decided to become a substitute Special Education Aid and see what it might be like and it was more consistent. I did enjoy it and eventually after months of working as a sub I had an interview and ended up in a Kindergarten through First Grade classroom full of Autistic Children. My eyes were wide open and I learned something new everyday. Half of the children were not potty-trained, we had one student who would have frequent melt-downs, throw chairs cross the classroom, knock down water coolers and kick teachers. Everyday was a surprisingly unique experience. I learned about all the therapies and their histories, helped them in ways that were very odd to me at the time. Six to eight months later I became pregnant with Brendan and I was not allowed to be in that environment due to safety issues. So I worked in the summer school program at the Special Ed preschool next door. Later on when the new school year began I to work one-on-one with a second grade boy with Autism Spectrum everyday. December rolled around and it came time for me to leave because Brendan was arriving soon.

Years later Brendan was diagnosed with Autism/Autism Spectrum. The reason I decided to write this story is because life can hand you some surprises. Who knew that when I worked in the classroom with Autistic children that I would have one of my own. I see Brendan and he being my own child I can't seem to place why he reacts to certain things and I can't fix them. It may be that I see my son differently than I would other children that I worked with.

It could be the teacher/mother thing. I don't claim to be an expert and I never will. Most of you who have children with special needs do a wonderful job and I actually learn from most of you. :)
Sometimes I don't feel I teach him enough and I certainly don't use much of what I learned in the classroom. There again that may be my high expectations of my parenting skills.

My childhood background is kind of related. My mother was born was cerebral palsy and from an early age I had to help my mom on a daily basis. I was an only child and I watched her fall daily because her coordination and balance were off. I had to constantly be apologetic and repeat the story of why she falls to everyone who witnessed it. She also was extremely hard of hearing and I had to deal with those issues as well.

So maybe it's my place in life. I never intended to be involved in Special Ed and because I never gave it a second thought I simply pushed it aside. This may be path in life that I have been given and who ever knew when I stepped foot into that classroom. I think Brendan's Autism has been a blessing in disguise.

Thanks for letting me share.

Just the little stuff

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 20:29:00 +0000

The week has began well with no major road blocks. Yesterday was a good first day back for Brendan and my other son, Connor. 90% of time Brendan was on task according to his Aid and did everything he needed to. In the morning he was a little grumpy, but aren't we all.

I mentioned before that I was going to give you the Lava Lamp report. Nothing happened and no substantial changes in the way Brendan falls asleep. I have to remind myself to put it on at least an hour before the kids hit the bed. It takes that long for it to actually start moving! Brendan is still on his same sleep patterns. I normally don't rise until 6 or so, but he was awake at 5:30 shouting from his room that he needed to go "potty!" After that there is no sense in even trying to get him back to sleep. Both my boys share a room, sleep in a bunk bed and Brendan takes the top bunk because he's lighter weight and the older one sleeps on the bottom. We have done something a little different in that we moved the bottom bed flat on the floor and moved Brendan's top bed down to a lower loft level. That way he can climb without any assistance. Seems to work well for him.

Did have one meltdown yesterday because he would not stop playing on his DS when I asked him to. (I time him for 3o minutes) But it was short lived (thank God). Also homework for him is an issue. After being at school 6 hours straight, over stimulation is a problem. It's quite a feat to require him to do homework, right when we arrive home.

One side note: Dental stuff; Brendan has lost his two front teeth. That actually happened just before Christmas! I apologize for not having any pictures, I am behind a couple of decades with photography and I don't own a digital camera. (Would love one.) I have a old SLR camera and that's about it.

Gosh, you would think that I would have more interesting tidbits. I guess some days are more adventurous than others.

Until tomorrow...

Updates

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 01:00:00 +0000

I am so glad it's Friday. Brendan's birthday was a success! He was showered with gifts from Star Wars figurines to more Nintendo Wii and DS games. I think we have a full library now. The family ended up not eating out and decided to just order in and go pick up the food. Easier on Brendan. Restaurants aren't the best environments for him at times. Some of the larger chain restaurants have really good menus. For his birthday dessert he devoured a serving of chocolate cake stuck with 7 seven candles and drizzled with Caramel and chocolate syrup, with a side of vanilla ice cream. Making anyone hungry?

I don't want to delve to deeply about the interview, because I honestly don't want to dwell on it. I didn't feel I did that well. I've have worked for this district before doing the exact same job that I interviewed for and I felt I had a loss for words. I am woman who is very hard on herself anyway and easily become discouraged if something isn't just right. Sometimes I wonder if I am not ASD in some form myself. I was so focused on inquiring about the full-time positions, that it appeared to them that I wouldn't take a part-time if offered. I just feel like I have missed my chance to actually get my foot in the door. We will see. I will know in about two weeks whether or not they are interested in offering me a position. Wish me luck.

Meanwhile I will focus on other things: The weekend, the wonderful warm weather (I like to garden), and getting the kids ready to head back to school.

Preparations

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 23:24:00 +0000

In the process of trying to get both boys back to the regular schedule before school begins on Monday. They have been getting to bed and sleeping in late. I think it's been havoc on Brendan because yesterday he had a major meltdown that I had not seem from him in a very long time. Both of us are recovered to today, but those tire both Brendan and I out. When his schedule is out of wack, Brendan is out of wack. Plain and simple.

Not much going on today, just trying to prepare myself mentally for this interview tomorrow. I am also thinking about Brendan's birthday, it's tomorrow as well. He will be turning seven. We are not planning a huge party. We never have and frankly it's never bothered him and I doubt he will even know the difference. Celebrating will be just limited to immediate family. No other family members are close by and he really doesn't have any "friends", just kids he knows from his class." As you well know, it's difficult for kids with Autism to truly establish social relationships.

Took him out today and let him choose a movie to buy from the store for his birthday. He loves monsters, aliens and the like. He likes "I am Legend." I know that some Mom's wouldn't approve because of the age, but I have always monitered what he watches. And to be honest he has seen worse. But he is varied and enjoys everything from 101 Dalmations to Godzilla.

Until tomorrow...

Monday Afternoon and Food Obsession

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 19:45:00 +0000

Well, I am still in my bathrobe. Now with a bowl of cereal (Special K) trying to consume more healthy foods. I bring this topic up because lately I have noticed that Brendan has had this veracious appetite for food. To the point of almost obsessive. I am not sure if it has to do with oral sensory issues, but he wants 2-3 bowls of cinnamon toast crunch for breakfast. Last week I made his favorite meal for dinner: Spaghetti and he packed away three helpings. I am concerned. He has favorite foods of course and it's limited to:

Chicken McNuggets
Mac n' Cheese
Spaghetti
Fish crackers

The chicken thing seems to be popular amongst the Autism population. I remember when I was working in the classroom of K-1st Autistic kids, the staple of their lunch was McNuggets!

I just recently heard a story at my local Supercuts. The stylist told me that they had a boy with Autism come in to get his haircut. She was guessing he was of Middle School age. The child was very overweight. In order to boy to calm down during the process of getting his haircut his Mom would keeping feeding him burritos. The entire time that child consumed a total of five burritos while cutting his hair.

I truly don't want to feed my son in order to change his behavior, but I am not sure why the sudden obsession of food. Anyone come across this in your children?

Monday Morning...

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:47:00 +0000

And I am still in my bathrobe with a cuppa coffee. I assume most of you are up, dressed and ready to face the world. I think I am recovering from the holidays. It's actually somewhat quiet here today with the exception of moans and babbles from Brendan's stimming.

The children are not back in school yet and this their final week of vacation. I have an interview this Wednesday for a Special Education Aide position. I have been out of work since May of 2008 but I haven't regretted one moment. I truly enjoy being home with the kids. I am still trying to study for my credential exams. That is one hill I must conquer is trying to pass these exams. I feel pretty confident I will do well, it's the lack of what they might not be able to offer me that bothers me, but I am ready to take on the world.

I am trying to start another blog The Single Mom's Jungle Suggestions? It's geared to Single Parenting help and special needs children. I might have to put it on the back burner for a trial. Not sure if I can take on two blogs but I have seen all the other Moms do it, so what's keeping me?!

More coming soon.

A Clean Start

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 21:54:00 +0000

I know that is probably how the majority of people will begin their blogs and I feel it's an appropriate opening to the new year. What's your clean start? Reorganization of your closets, more time for yourself (which I might add is a feat when you have children, period), or decrease your poundage? I have always said that resolutions shouldn't be only for the new year. They should be a constant effort throughout your life.

Well, Christmas and the holidays are over. Both my the children did well this year with loot. My oldest son Connor who is 11 this year, found out about Santa and was disappointed in his parents for telling him. Brendan actually doesn't really know the difference yet and maybe he never will but I am honestly not concerned.

They received the "big" gift this year of a Wii, complete with the controllers, the Mario wheel, light sabers, and about fifteen games to boot. I suggested to their Dad through a link actually through AutismVox. It mentioned that Wii was supposed to be beneficial for learning and eye-hand coordination and the classroom. It's been interesting to watch Brendan play. His behavior goes from being a frustrated boy with no attention span to someone who is thoroughly enjoying it. We have a wide variety of games and the one that seems to be a hit is bowling!!! It is so awesome to see him get truly excited about something so simple! He also wants to try the more complicated games that require more concentration on his part, this is when Brendan can't control his behavior.

I also was a bit disappointed in MY choice of gifts for him. I purchased toys I thought would help motor and sensory skills. I tried doing my research as to what were the good toys for him. We did get a bean bag thinking that it would calm him down. I guess to some extent but only on "Brendan's time." I did also try some of those textured therapy balls. Did purchase a Lava Lamp to place in his bedroom to see if it can calm him down when he hits the pillow. My boys share a room. I will let you know if it actually calms him down in a few weeks or so.

My boys have three weeks off for Winter Break and they don't return to school until January 12th, so it gives me plenty of time for Doctor and Dental visits. The boys had their annual six-month dental exam last Monday. Boy was I nervous. Outings like this really give my nerves a run for their money. Last time Brendan had a dental visit we ended up putting him under at Children's Hospital to clean and do what work that was necessary on his teeth, 10k later...
As expected, Brendan flatly refused to sit in the dental chair after we tried various ideas to get him to sit down so they could at least see if he had any cavities. After several attempts the doctor suggested that I would try having him sit with me in the chair while they take a quick look inside. Wasn't easy, I had to sit with my legs facing outward, while Brendan would sit facing me with his legs wrapped around me and I would have to restrain (dislike that word) his arms while the dentist would give a 10 second scan. Needlessly to say, both boys have no cavities and were given a clean bill of health until the next six months!

Since we all would like a clean start, how about a recipe for you. It's a recipe with less than a gram of fat. How's that for a great start to the new year? Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins. They are very good tasting and simple to make. Low in sugar, fat, and they are great for those of you that have your kids eating Gluten-free. I can't simply say enough about them, my kids love em'! Here's the recipe:

Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins

1 cup old fashion rolled oats (not instant)
1 cup nonfat milk
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 egg whites
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. sugar
raisins or nuts (optional)

Nutritional Info,
Fat: 0.5g
Carbs: 20.5g
Calories: 93.5
Protein: 2.9g

Soaks the oats in the milk about one hour. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Spray muffin pan with cooking spray. Combine the oat mixture with the applesauce and egg whites, and mix until combined. In a separate bowl measure and whisk the dry ingredients together. Add wet ingredients to dry and mix until just combined. Add raisins or nuts if desired. Do not over mix the batter of the muffin will be tough. Spoon muffin mixture into muffin pan. Combine the cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle each muffim with some of the mixture. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from pan, cool and enjoy.

These can be frozen and reheated in the microwave for a quick breakfast.

Yield one dozen

Enjoy the new start to the new year with this recipe.

Merry Christmas Everyone and Happy 2009!

noreply@blogger.com (Karen) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 17:48:00 +0000

My gift to all of you is that this will be my final blog for the year. I finally decided that I should write something. I have neglected this blog page since August and I apologize. I want to continue to blog but I feel should make a clean start beginning with the new year. Lately I have been one of those long time readers of other Autism blogs (especially Autism Vox), but I haven't made contributions of my own and I have much to say about life in a house with Brendan and his Autism.
It's been an especially difficult year with me still unemployed, but I do have an interview for a special education aid with the school district that I used to work for years ago. Wish me luck and I will update all of you in January.

Cheers to everyone and have a happy new year!

Happy Holidays!!!!!