Fearless Folks … autism and beyond …

Summer has proven to be a good break for both kids.  Nick is more subdued (no need to adjust his meds, he’s back to his “old” self… and I didn’t even have to leave the planet… hey, good times!!).  I think he was tired, you know how teens get.  So far he’s been out swimming at the beach with me, hanging out with his grandparents, and kayaking with his dad … and so far so good–no additional pressures.  He’s a sensitive boy with social and anxiety issues.  And on top of all that, it’s just plain tough to be a teen.  Except he did ask me when he could start drinking beer.  I told him 30!!

Meghan is her usual self, still playing her little song and dance routine and staying one step ahead of her teachers, staff, headmaster, CEO of her school, and probably, the President of the United States too.  At this point, I wouldn’t be surprised.  (Don’t tell me if you hear anything on the news about her, because I just don’t wanna know!!)

Her contact teacher told me that they just keep trying new things to get Meghan to stay in compliance.  She has a tendency to get bored and plays tricks, like, um … everyday!  Even her rewards (m&m’s, peanut butter toast, ice cream) become boring to her and they need to try something else.  I know, I know, how does one get bored of m&m’s and ice cream??  It’s just beyond my ability to comprehend!!

Because of all this, I asked her contact teacher if the school would kick her out, because of the non-compliance and other crap stuff she dishes out… the teacher laughed and said no.  and I said:  “oh good (big sigh of relief) because I would hate to have to move to another planet..”

In my opinion summer brings more than just good weather.  It’s a happier time. People are easygoing (well most) and both my kids seem happier… so I’m happier.  I thought it also a good time to take some leaps (besides leaping to another planet), I’ve decided to test out leaving Nick home alone (he is 16). My initial plan was to drive to CVS (about 3 minutes away) and then come back… but he didn’t like the “car leaving the driveway without him in it” idea,  so I am going to take bike rides instead.  I will go around the block and come back and then go again for a longer time each time while working to build his confidence.  I think he’ll feel really good about himself if he sees how easy it is to be home alone and to trust himself.  We’ll see.

And me?  I think I’ll get back into tennis and take lessons with a real hottie guy at a nearby tennis club!  Yup, I’m really thinking now!!

Have a happy 4^th.  I’m seeing some good friends and hanging out at a bonfire on the beach and letting go of all my personal crap woes …. While continuing to hang out on “this” planet, soaking in some summer fun and be merry-ish!