Monday, September 15, 2008

Sleep is against my religion.

I am sure there are many mothers of children with autism who can relate to sleepless nights. I have this feeling that these night owl children belong to a secret religion that strictly forbids sleep. It also mandates that they try to upset the sleep of their parents as much as possible. Is this my sleep-deprived imagination running wild? Hmmm. Don't think so. I will keep you updated as I try to find proof of this clandestine sect. Until then, sleep if you can, but keep one eye open.

Boys and cars

Is this a sexist statement? "Males are fascinated with cars." It sounds sexist, but doesn't it seem to be true? In our house, it is all-cars-all-the-time. Connor wakes up in the morning with a string of car names and it continues until he falls asleep. His knowledge is so amazing. But I just don't get the fascination. Most of the cool gals I know don't get it either. For now, I guess it will be just another one of life's mysteries.

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Back to School Blessings

Wonder of all wonders, school has returned for its annual salvation of mothers throughout the world. Like clockwork, children begrudgingly go to school, while their mothers try to find where they lost their brain last June.

Kids and moms need their routines. Moms of kids with special needs are especially grateful for a few minutes of respite from their constant duties. Let me compare these duties to a job: it is like going to work and then never going home. No time off. Countless nights kept awake by the boss who doesn't sleep. Pay? not in this home's budget. Lunch break? the boss is very picky and likes to whine and complain. Bathroom break? yes, but not alone, the boss likes to join you. Sounds enticing, doesn't it? That is why mothers are SO happy when school starts again.

So here is my toast to all the wonderful teachers who are giving the mothers a break. And here is a toast to all of the wonderful mothers who work so hard to make their kids' lives the best they can be. Won't you raise your glass of grape juice and toast with me?