Disturbing

I cannot stomach the thought of this "autism drug" development. Why do we need a drug for a pervasive disorder? Autism is not a disease like cancer, which is the other types of drugs this company develop. I don't really even classify autism as a disorder, more of a condition, Autism Spectrum Condition.
What I find most disturbing is that this drug isn't anywhere near a trial phase and parents are "excited" about it?!? They want to subject their children to drug trials, use them as guinea pigs? That is just crazy, no? To those parents, I say, gee, I'm really sorry your kid isn't 'normal', but who is normal and what kind of normalcy are you wanting your child to be? Love your child [period].
We have many challenges with Andrew, but we love him and support him and give him every opportunity to thrive and succeed. Yes, he sees the world differently, but is that a BAD thing? I embrace his uniqueness and through him I've even changed how I see the world. He is an inspiration, a gentle soul, a loving child, and he's perfect the way that he is; he doesn't need to fit into some mold of mythological uniformity!
People, please, love your child [period]. Help them to reach their potential on their terms. Feed their interests, seek out therapies, help them make sense of the world, their world. Don't try to shove a pill down their throats in order to become something they are not meant to be, something "normal". Let go of normal, throw it away, accept being different...it's a good thing!

Memorial Weekend

We've been pretty productive this weekend, I've almost gotten every thing planted in our garden. We're planting cucumbers, chard, lettuce, carrots and tomatoes. Our garden space is small, but hopefully this fall, Mies and I can extend it for next growing season.
The boys are counting down the days until school is out. Andrew kinda slacked off the last few weeks, so we had to remind him he isn't done with school just yet. This is his last year at the Elementary school, he's off to middle school next year. He has already gone on a tour and spent a 1/2 day there. He LOVED it. Which puts my mind at ease. I know it will be a new experience for him and many changes and transitions, but am hoping that some of the coping skills he has learned will get him through. But alas, we have some time for that, and even though it is a topic of conversation, I want him to enjoy his summer break, too, without worrying about middle school changes.
Aidan is still struggling with reading, and he reverses letters often, but he loves to try to read and loves hearing stories and creating his own, using drawings. Plus, I'm discovering he has a photographic memory. So, in order to not discourage him, Mies and I are fanning those flames and will continue to keep an eye on his reading progress, without making it a chore.
Well, will post more later, am off to enjoy the beautiful weather! :)

Under the Weather

Sorry the blog has been on hold. It seems our family has been under the weather too much this spring and am trying on getting all of us back on our feet. Will blog more soon.