April is Autism Acceptance Month

Acceptance.  We plan to celebrate the month of April as we do any day, advocating and accepting those who see the world differently.  Yes, raising awareness is important but accepting those with Autism, valuing them as a person, not looking for a cure, that is what Autism everyday looks like for us.   

Autism isn't going anywhere, we don't need a cure.  My son doesn't need a cure.  Those with Autism want to speak up for themselves and have the world listen.  They deserve the same rights as you and I.  They need to feel valued, loved and needed.  Acceptance. 

My son is a person who has many strengths.  He has so many creative ideas, so many hidden talents.  He is afraid to show them.  People see him differently, he cannot find his voice often.  He needs to feel wanted.  He needs to feel like his ideas and thoughts matter.  He sees the world differently and lives day to day.  He has goals like you and I.  He doesn't need a cure.  He needs acceptance.  

We need to embrace those who are different.  Why would we want everyone to be the same?  Wouldn't the world be a boring place? 

Acceptance.  It isn't a hard concept. 

15!

He's 15 today!  15?!  Where has the time gone?  My beautiful baby boy, the one who has always danced to the beat of a different drum. 15!

After a long difficult pregnancy, just shy of my 24th birthday, I gave birth to this long awaited bundle of joy.   I remember the day so well.  The day my life changed.   

At the 16 week mark of my pregnancy, the doctor put me on bed rest.   Pre-eclampsia had forced me to slow down.  Slowing down was huge for me.  I hate asking for help.  Period.  (I wonder where he gets that from)  At 7 1/2 months of my pregnancy, our baby was coming.  He was here, my preemie 5lb 9oz bundle of joy. 

From the moment I laid my eyes on him, I was in love.  Being my first child, I never knew what was typical or not typical.  All I knew was love.  Love for this child who looked at me with those big blueberry colored eyes and blonde hair.

We have faced many challenges.  He has climbed many mountains in such a short time.  Some days I wanted to give up on the fight, throw my hands in the air and just give up.  Then I look at that boy, the one with the blueberry eyes and blonde hair, his determination to keep going.  You know, giving up is not an option.  Ever. 

He has made me a better person.  A better parent.  He has given me courage. We are so alike.  He pulled me up on those days when I didn't think I could do it.  I often leave, find a quiet place and cry my tears.  But giving up is never an option.  Ever.

So, on your 15th birthday, I want to say thank you.  Thank you for being you.  Nothing has ever been easy for you but you are a fighter.  Full of determination, courage and willpower.  Keep doing your thing little boy (not so little anymore) with the blueberry colored eyes and blonde hair.  My son, my beautiful courageous son.  Never give up.  Ever.

You've taught me so many things. Your determination and courage continue to amaze me. I'm so proud to be your mom! 

Love always, Mom

Welcome!

So I have these crazy friends, fellow Autism parents who I have grown to adore.  YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE! They blog and have such talent in the writing area.  I'm not a talented writer but I do have a ton to say or umm, write about. 

So here goes nothing, my first post. 

I ramble a lot.  Like... A LOT!  When I am passionate about something, it gets out of control.  Something I'm most passionate about, my kids.  Autism became part of our world when my son had just turned 10.  Some days are great, most days are tough.  I always try to keep our world light, full of laughter.  I'm blonde, finding something to laugh about isn't very hard. 

Sit back, read, laugh, shed a few tears.  Always laugh though.  Laugh at yourself.  See the good in every situation, regardless.  Laughter is what pulls you out of that dark place when times get tough.  

See... I'm rambling.  By the way, there will be more of that.  

I can guarantee it!