Polar Express

Last evening the "Polar Express" was on TV. We've read the book as a family many times but have never seen the film. Surpsingly Airen and Mara sat through the whole movie. It was nice to sit as a family and enjoy some real family time together. Of course at the end Doug says it would have been even better with popcorn!!!

Wise words from a wise woman

This week while speaking with a good friend about happenings in my life and how my children were we got to talking about more deep ideas and such. She knows the day to day challenges I have with Airen and therapies and such. She knows my family dynamics and understands the challenges that go along with being a stay at home mom and having a special needs child. She told me the following.

"There are two types of people in this world. Karen, you are type one. Your type will be faced with adversity and challenges and many negative issues. You will roll down that hill of uncertainty but you will eventually land on your feet and make it and succeed. Type two people face these same things and only continue to roll and never get back on their feet. They need additional supports from the environment around them and never truly make it to a standing position, even with this help." She went on to tell me that because I am type one person those around me never truly see that I am struggling. All they see is the strong person I am and the wonderful mother I am to my children. Type two people are the ones that need all the help and support they can get so not for them to fail.

For this friend to say this to me meant the world. There are times that I am at the end of the rope and there are no more knots to be tied. There are days that I am just ready to put each child into a room and I sit for a few minutes of peace. There are days that I wonder what life would be like if God chose a different path for me. I then sit back and look at all the successes I have with Airen and what a wonderful loving son he's become. What a great big brother he is to his sister. I see Mara who is my trying one but is also my cuddle bug full of life. Through the eyes of each of my children I am able to embrace life and all the trials God has thrown my way. I am ready to handle the adversity and challenges because I know that no matter what I am a wonderful mother. I am a wonderful friend and most of all I am a wonderful child of God and He knows what is best for me and He won't give me more then I can handle in any given moment. I thank you God for all you've blessed my life with and hope that the type two people out there see God and His gifts and someday come to stand on their feet...alone.

Airen's Christmas Poem

This afternoon Airen came home from school and sat down to write his own poem. In school Airen has been writing more and learning words. Each week his teacher sends home a poem for us to read and learn. Airen decided he was going to write his own poem. Airen's speech therapist came for therapy as Airen was finishing his poem. She was very impressed!! Typically with autistic children they learn to spell words and they memorize the words and the spellings. They have issues with understanding that other spellings exist, example...to, too, & two or one & won. Airen is actually sounding words out!!! He understands phonics!!! We are so excited!!!! Here is the poem Airen wrote in black, in red I wrote what he was telling me!!!

So much for writing each day

Okay so trying to find enough time to sit down to eat most days is impossible. Thinking I could find enough time EVERYDAY to write a blog entry was truly pushing it. Oh well, life is crazy what can I say?!?!?

Sensory overload

So the last few days Airen has come home from school a bit upset. He doesn't come right out and tell me what is wrong or if something happened at school. Yesterday it was a good day because he had OT and the therapist does ''brushings'' on his arms & legs. Airen enjoys this lots and it tends to calm him down a bit. Today he got in the van and was really quiet and had a sad face. Asking him questions on the way home I managed to get a few things out of him. He is very upset that he didn't get to stand next to a little boy in line and someone else did. He doesn't understand things with friends very well. We are working on social stories on how to be a good friend and how to give our friends space when they need it. So when we finally got home he walked in the house in tears. He sat on my lap crying and had me sing his special song, "Come Stop your Crying" from Tarzan. Almost immediately he calmed down and stopped crying. Driving to Ms W later this afternoon he opened up telling me that during reading time in his reader it is too noisy for him to ''keep his mind straight''. The poor kid has such sensory issues and any outside noise seems to upset him and he can't concentrate. So we talked about him telling his teacher when its too noisy and that he can't think straight so hopefully he can try to fix the problem by using his words. I am volunteering in the school tomorrow so I will probably stop by and talk to his teacher about the distractions he's talking about and hopefully Airen will speak to his teacher also. At Ms W this evening he and his little friends were twirling on the swings and then got to jump on the trampoline. So thankfully he had an energy release and is ready to sleep tonight.

Congratulations

Congratulations to president elect Obama. No matter is you voted for McCain or Obama this is history in the making. For all those who have thought something couldn't be done or someone couldn't succeed in something Obama being elected is hope for all. The 44th president of the United States has made history. Instead of folks being upset that McCain didn't win they need to step back and look at the history in the making. If you have children you need to sit down with them and tell them that Obama is our president elect and that as a child they can do anything they put their minds to. To the McCain party, they fought a long battle and in the end McCain will most likely still be around and doing good things for our country, just not as president. So congratulations to the Obama family and I look forward to seeing you in action.

VOTE!!!

Get out and vote today!! Anyone who doesn't vote today cannot complain about the way the election went. Every vote counts, every person is important in this process!!!

VOTE!! VOTE!! VOTE!! VOTE!! VOTE!! VOTE!! VOTE!! VOTE!! VOTE!! VOTE!! VOTE!!

Lazy Sunday

Today Airen got to play with his friends for a long time!! As I was leaving to get him Ms W called and said he could stay another hour. When I went and got him the kids were wound up. I don't know how she does it with all of them. Mara and I played with little people most of the afternoon and attempted a nap. Mara was too giggly for a nap so that idea didn't fly. This evening Airen is so wound up still. He's played outside today and is still bouncing off the walls. He's had NO candy today and no other junk. Right now he is teasing Mara and Mara keeps going and giving him kisses. These two are a handful today. Daddy is working late this evening as the Lego Store has a floor change to do this evening. Bedtime is not coming soon enough.

Happy Halloween

So we had our Halloween ritual and went to some friend's house for dinner and trick or treating. Airen was excited to see his friends and was so wound up. Once the bellies were full it was time to get everyone dressed and attempt some pictures. My kids aren't the greatest when it comes to pictures so we will be attempting in daylight to get some good pictures of Airen and Mara together in their costumes!!! Surprisingly there weren't too many kids out. Both kids got a good amount of candy that mommy and daddy will enjoy!!! Hope everyone had a fun evening and didn't get into too much trouble.

NaBloPoMo?!?!

So I've been told that November is National Blog Posting Month. The idea is 30 posts in 30 days. I like a challenge and there is usually so much going on in my life so I am up for 30 posts in 30 days. Granted some days you may get nonsense that means nothing to you but will to me!! Should be a fun month and I am off and running.

Missing a friend

My best friend and her son left yesterday. Drove them to the airport and we were both pretty silent on the drive there, knowing good byes were coming closer. I cried most of the way home. Having been here in Arizona for 7 years now I've yet to make a friend such as her. Someone who knows what I am thinking without words. Someone who understands what I go through day in and day out with my children. Someone who isn't into the drama as some friends can be. Someone who pretty much knows what to say and when to say it. I miss her so much. Being so far away from her is tough. So today it was back to the phone calls and text messages back and forth. It was also a day of Airen asking when his friends from Ohio would be back to visit. He wants them here to see the boat parade in Tempe and the snow that is shipped in for the kids to play in!! So if you are reading this dear friend of mine from Ohio know how much you are loved and missed here in Arizona!!! We love you!!!

Busy week

I think this week is one of the busiest I will have in a long time. Auntie and baby B leave today around 11am. At 3 pm this afternoon we have an IEP meeting at Airen's school. Naw is coming to sit with the kids for awhile. Airen has speech and Ms W today also. I also have a meeting I want to try to attend this evening. This is just today TUESDAY. Tomorrow is early release day for Airen and another meeting for me. Thursday Airen has school then he has an eye doctor appointment and Ms W. Friday is party day at school and I am going to help in the classroom. Also its Halloween and Airen is so excited to dress up and see his friends that evening. By the time the week is over I am going to need a vacation. So much to do and so many places to be this last week of October. Where has this month gone?!?!?! Cannot believe it will be Thanksgiving and Christmas before we know it.

Best friends come to visit

This last week my best friend and her son came to visit from Ohio. The weather the last week has also been in the mid 90's--HOT!! So thoughts of trips to the zoo and parks were out. We did spend a lot of time just enjoying each other's company and letting the kids play. Airen loves baby B and is going to be very upset when he gets home from school today and they are gone. Auntie was wonderful with Airen. He listened to her and worked on legos with her with no issues. Of course it helps that auntie works with special needs children. Boy do I wish she were closer. Some days just having an extra set of hands around to help with Airen and Mara is what I need. We took the babies to the playground one day. Baby B found his shadow and was crawling after it, cutest thing ever!!! We also went to the small farm to check out some pumpkins. Baby B is always so smily and so cute. Last night we decided to put all three kids into the tub!!! What fun they had together and surprisingly my bathroom wasn't flooded. I am going to be very sad to see my best friend leave today. We don't see each other that often but we sure talk on the phone many times a day. Just knowing that she understands the successes and challenges we face with Airen means the world to us.

Vavo & Vavo visit

making pizza
playing music
making a maze for the golf balls
riding the motocycle with daddy
Mara playing with dried beans & rice

This week we are fortunate to have Doug's parents visiting from MA. Airen is so excited they are here. Mara has surprisingly taken very well to them. She is giving lots of hugs. On Friday we kept Airen from school and Doug had the day off. We all took a trip to the Children's Museum of Phoenix (http://www.childrensmuseumofphoenix.org/). Airen & Mara had a blast. I am very pleased with this place. Its full of sensory activities perfect for any child, especially Airen. There was an arts and crafts room, a play kitchen room, a grocery store. There was also a place with tricycles and a obstacle course and car wash for the kids to ride around. There was also a room that had all these courses set up that you would put the balls in the shoot and off they went. Again both kids had so much fun. Airen has already asked when we can go back there. The $9.00 admission isn't too bad so we will probably go back there again. Next time I think we want to ask some of our therapy friends to join us and make a day of it with the kids.

School update

This is a bit late in coming but things have been crazy trying to figure out. Airen continues to have 3 different individuals working with him during the day. In the mornings it rotates between two aides and in the afternoon there is only one individual. At least in the afternoons when he seems to have the most difficulties he is with one person. On October 28th the IEP team will be sitting down for a meeting. All areas need to get on the same page with what actual paperwork says and what services need to be done. For the record our district's special ed program is NOT in compliance with the state board of education. I know speech is adding a few goals and will be doing two days a week speech. We are waiting to find out about OT. The actual reports indicate OT services but right now he's just on a weekly consultation. I am hopeful he'll be receiving full services after the meeting.

We had parent teacher conferences a few weeks ago. Airen's teacher said Airen is a ''sponge''. Pretty much everything she teaches him he remembers. Airen has been sounding words out everywhere and is anxious to start reading. He is also excited about math. He is asking all kinds of what does this and this equal. Very exciting!!! School also has requested we send Airen big boy undies and they are going to start putting him in them during the day. The first day he did well at school but came home and wet himself. The next day was early release and he refused the undies. The other days I am ''told'' he stayed dried and went on the potty. I get the potty log this week and started looking over it. Well the poor kid isn't going potty at school except first thing in the morning. He then rushes in the door and goes potty here. Then last week he had an accident at school and that was all it took for him to request his pull ups again. So much for school trying to help. I told the teacher and his case worker that we can try it but I am pretty positive he will wet himself once and get embarrassed and that is the end of potty. Sure enough. Since he had his accident at school he's pretty much refused going on the potty---urghhh!!! Starting to get really frustrated with this whole potty training thing.

Still no explaination

Well I still have no clear cut answer to what is going on. I know I was told Airen would have two different aides helping him. I received a phone call from the resource specialist. She was calling for the director who was out sick today. Explains why I didn't get any answers today.

The resource specialist informed me that there were questions asked about how Airen was doing in the classroom and if the aide was still needed. HE'S NOT POTTY TRAINED so there is your answer about needing an aide. I told the resource specialist that given he's not potty trained and has issues with transitions we have the aide for those reasons and won't be changing that. She agreed. Airen's case worker at school was also consulted and she indicated that in the mornings since he's only in the one class with his peers and his teacher he seems to do pretty good. From lunch time on is where the issues arise. It is noted he has problems transitioning from the different specials (music, library, PE, computer lab or therapies). This is where he really needs the help. Also we aren't potty trained.

This afternoon when Airen got home he told me that he had THREE people working with him. THREE different people throughout the day helping him. WHAT ARE THEY THINKING??? Can I scream yet. I finally received a response from the director stating that Mr "idiot" Principal wanted to rotate the aides around to three different children. WHAT ARE YOU THINKING???? I got the schedule and Doug and I are not happy. I let the resource specialist know that I do not like the idea of a rotation of aides to different students. I also let her know how upset we were in regards to how they decided to communicate these changes to us. She agreed it wasn't in the child's best interest on any of this. She also suggested we as parents call an IEP meeting. Doug and I had already thought about that. This week is teacher conferences this week and fall break is next week. Once we get back from break we do want a sit down meeting.

So there it is. More confusion for me and for our child. THREE people working with him throughout the day is stupid and not happening. Tomorrow I will most likely get the chance to speak to Mr Principal and hopefully he sees where we as parents are coming from.

Stupid school people

Friday afternoon around 4:25 pm I received a phone call from the school principal. Mr Principal proceeds to tell me that Airen is doing wonderful in school and is really adjusting. Fine just get on with why you are calling me this late on a Friday. Mr Principal goes on to say that on Monday there will be a change in Airen's 1:1 aide. WHAT??? Tells me that there will now be two individuals working with Airen each day. One will be in the morning from either 8-11 am or 9-11 am and the other will step in for the afternoon. NOT HAPPENING. I'm trying very hard to hold it together and hear him out. Mr Principal continues to tell me he would appreciate it if I could help this weekend and get Airen ready for the transition. Hello...Airen's main issues are with TRANSITIONS. Of course a few red flags went off in my head so I kept my mouth shut and knew who I'd be contacting next. Luckily I seem to have a very good working relationship with the Director of Exceptional Students. I emailed her and left her a voice mail at the two numbers I have for her. She is so good!!! She replied to me about 8:30 pm copying me on a message she sent to Mr Principal. She is not aware of any changes to Airen's IEP, as they have to have her in attendance for any IEP addendum meetings. She also sent me a personal message telling me she is going to get the answers for me.

Of course telling Airen that his current aide isn't going to be with him has already upset him. He told me he thinks he's going to be sick for school this week and went off crying. He's really taken to his aide and is finally comfortable with her after 5 weeks in school. We are finally to the point of getting to school with no fights or tantrums. Of course Mr Principal and I always talk in the mornings at drop off so Monday is going to be a bit akward since I went above him on this issue. Oh well. You'd think they school would know not to mess with this momma as she plays by the rules and will file state complaints should she see fit. URGHHHHH!!! I have confrontation so that is my biggest worry come Monday. Oh well don't mess with my son's education and that's what happening now.

So everyone please say a little prayer Monday morning. Say a prayer that Airen gets up and dressed and breakfast with no fights. A prayer that mommy can hold it together when we arrive at the school. A prayer that should Mr Principal wish to discuss this situation that I can hold my emotions in check till after leaving the school. A prayer that since I will have Mara with me that she behaves the right way at the right moments---scream should the time be right!!! Prayers that Airen can make it through the day with no problems. Prayers that this mommy doesn't totally lose it before Monday.

Sometimes I really hate being an adult and dealing with issues like this. So another prayer that mommy has the strength to stay strong and fight the fight for her children.

Airen amazes me

Airen has been coming home almost daily singing some song or another. His teacher teaches with songs and its working wonders for Airen. He can count to 100. He knows the days of the week and the months. He has also started to sound words out and is asking how to spell things. He just amazes me on how fast he's learning things. His teacher tells me almost daily that Airen is just a sponge and is a joy to have in class.

This weekend we have our first birthday party. It is at a bounce place so I am sure the kids will have a blast. Jumping is a good release for Airen and helps him get back in focus and helps with his outbursts.

Fall consignment sale

So I do these consignment sales twice a year. This time I took about 500 items and was really disappointed. I only sold 70 items!!! I didn't make nearly what I made in the spring so I was really disappointed. I know it has a lot to do with it was a fall/winter clothes sale and it has been around 100 degrees lately. So I listed things on craigslist and again disappointed as things aren't selling. There is another consignment sale October 4-6 in east Mesa. Its pretty far from us and we have a lot going on that weekend so not sure if I am going to take stuff. Of course the organizer of the sale has said I can bring my items to her and she will take care of getting them to the sale. She also offered to take the items to another sale the following weekend. I did start my tags for this sale but now my printer isn't working. If its not one thing its another. Of course I am getting tired of looking at the stuff in the living room corner and the garage has been taken over by extra boxes of clothes as I try to get pictures by size of the stuff to put on craigslist.

If anyone is looking for boys fall/winter stuff sizes 6-9 months up to 5T and girls stuff newborn to 6-9 months please have them contact me. A lot of Children's Place, Gap, Old Navy, Gymboree, All Mine, Circo, Cherokee, Okie Dokie. All in excellent condition and priced to move!!!

Mara's new shirt!!!

Today Doug was off so we ran a few errands to Target. Well we got Mara a new shirt that is just so fitting for her!! I will include a picture!!

Doug and I also got a Lego set for Airen's classroom. Today was major discount day for employees so we were able to pick it up for next to nothing. I took it to his teacher this afternoon and she was so excited, she was almost in tears she was so greatful. After the kids had afternoon snack and recess they had show and tell back in the classroom. The teacher got to have her own show and tell and the class was so excited!!!

Taj Mahal

One of the perks of Doug working at Lego is putting sets together for display in the store. And since he's the manager he gets first picks on putting stuff together. The other night he came home with the Taj Mahal. It has 5922 pieces and I am putting it together. I am having so much fun putting this one together. Typically which ever employee puts the display together gets to keep it. We have quite a collection right now. Originally we were going to raffle off the Taj Mahal between his staff but now I am considering keeping this one. Its very impressive.

Back in the saddle again

So I've been reminded by a few friends that I've not updated my blog for awhile. So I am taking a few minutes to ME time to do just that.

Airen has been in kindergarten for a month. He's doing wonderful. He really likes his teacher and he is making some friends. We have our first birthday party of the school year next weekend. Its at PumpIt up! Its an inflatable place with all sorts of play areas. I will be attending also for the ''just in case moments". I am excited to go and hopefully meet some other parents. Airen is continuing his home therapies, occupational, speech and music. His therapists are adding new goals to challenge him and hopefully work new areas. He's been having music as school and is coming home with new songs. Today it was "This land is your land, this land is my land..." It was so cute. He had hand motions and all. His teacher also does a lot of teaching to songs. We are still waiting for the school district to get an occupational therapist hired for school therapy. Airen has also decided he wants to get hot lunch from school. I am glad he's finally opening up to more food choices. We also go to school in the mornings and have breakfast there. All in all he is doing very well.

Mara is now 15 months old. She's still my little drama queen. She throws some really great tantrums!! She is still a peanut weighing about 18 lbs. She is such a picky eater. This week she had a toasted cheese sandwich that she stole from her brother's plate. At this rate if she eats it I am all for it. Her vocabulary is growing. Her favorite is ELMO and finally is saying ELMO not MELMO. She is funny cause we have one DVD of ELMO and she will go into the den on her pink chair and sit waiting for us to put it on for her. She grabs her ELMO dolls and points to the TV over and over again yelling ELMO!!! She's too cute. She sees pictures of dogs and says ''ruff ruff''. She's too cute. She also calls AIREN all day while he is at school. She misses him so much. When we go to pick him up in the afternoon she sits in the car waiting and calling AIREN. When he finally gets into the car she is blowing him kisses.

Doug is enjoying the Lego store. Currently we are building the Taj Mahal, it is 5922 pieces!! Its been fun to build the last few days. Doug's schedule is nice because he's usually up in the mornings with us and helping to get kids dressed and ready to walk out the door.

Remember Me

To all our military and their families. We support you, we love you and thank you for your sacrifices.

Randy Pausch Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dreams

If you've not had the opportunity to read his book please take a look at this video. It is long but well worth it in the end.

First day pictures

First day of Kindergarten!!!!

Yes you read right!! Today was Airen's first day at kindergarten. Yesterday he was so excited to help me pack his lunch. Hopefully he eats what he took!!! This morning Airen woke up and got dressed without hassle. We got to the school and Airen was ready to go. He saw the kids playing on the playground and was excited to go see his friends. Once he was over there he came running back to me and said that none of his friends were there. It didn't look like any of the kids from his preschool are at his kindergarten class so he will make all new friends. We met up with his aide Ms L. and Airen seemed to get a little more comfortable. When it was time to line up with his class and say bye to mommy is when he got a little more anxious. He was clinging to the stroller and my leg. Finally he was good to go and Mara and I left to the car. Of course once there is where it hit me that my baby boy isn't a baby anymore!!! He has come so far and still has so far to go!! I am getting ready to go pick him up in a few minutes and cannot wait to hear all about his day and what he did. I will post some pictures later!!

Birthday pictures

Happy 5th Birthday Airen

Happy 5th Birthday Airen!!! Cannot believe he's five!! Airen will be starting kindergarden in a few weeks and then it will really hit me!!!

On Monday Airen had a small party with his friends. We took cupcakes with Wall-E on them and the kids all enjoyed them. Tuesday we went to Naw's house. I made him a lego block cake and it turned out pretty good. Naw & Pop-Pop got Airen his first two wheel bike with training wheels. Airen was so excited and couldn't wait for the sun to go down so he could go ride it. He did really well on the bike and had a blast.

Saturday we had Airen's party with some other friends. We had a blast. We got lego sets for the kids to build. We were glad we got to spend some time with family friends we'd not seen in awhile. All in all Airen had a wonderful fifth birthday!!!

Adult only lunch

Today Airen went to hab/respite. I mentioned to Ms. W that Doug was off and that I thought we were going to try to grab lunch today. Our wonderful provider offered to watch Mara while we (DOUG & I) got to enjoy a meal with NO KIDS!! I was a little hesitant at first as there were her kids plus my two---5 kids total. So at 12:30 I dropped Mara off with Ms. W and the kids were so excited to see her. Mara went to Ms. W with no problems and I walked out the door not to look back. Doug and I headed to Harrah's casino down the road. We had a buy 1 get 1 free coupon for their Harvest Buffet. Can't beat a lunch for two costing $9.99!! That's my kind of deal!! Doug and I enjoyed the people watching. All the little old ladies coming in with their special necklaces and needing to sit at the special table was fun. You see all types at the casino and it is fun. I tried to get Doug to go play $6.00 at the slots but he said no way. $6.00 would have been gone in under 5 minutes but he's a poop and doesn't like casinos. Has no interest at all. I'm not big on gambling either but just a few minutes would have been fun. We went and got the kids around 2 pm and Mara did just fine. She had a blast playing with her brother and the other kids and they had fun with her. I am so thankful to Ms. W for letting Doug and I enjoy an adult only meal!!!!

Happy 4th of July

Want to say Happy 4th of July to everyone!! A special thank you to all the military for my freedom. Thank you to all the families who are separated from loved ones. Their service is much appreciated and all you sacrifice means the world to the freedom my family and I have.

R2D2 build

Airen got to help build R2D2 during the LEGO build. It was a great thing for kids. There were so many people that showed up all weekend. There were constant lines just to get into the store. The LEGO folks had to limit the number of folks in the store. Mall security was all over the place watching the number of folks and the fire hazard. Sunday R2D2 was finally finished and he was amazing. Going to include some pictures.

Airen & Doug's TV appearance

Thursday morning we went to the LEGO store for 4am!!! Yes you read that right. 4am!!! Channel 3 news was sending Brad Perry on location at the LEGO Store for the morning show. Last minute Doug decided that we should all go. Airen was wonderful and had so much fun. The master builder from LEGO was so much fun. Brad Perry was a blast. Of course through the whole thing he kept saying he was at the Chandler LEGOland Store. Not quite but you get the point. Brad did an on air interview with the master builder Dan and also one with Doug. At the end he went around to the kids and asked them what they built. Surprisingly Airen was great talking live on air.

Below are links to a few of the news clips that made it to Channel 3's website. Hope you all enjoy!!!

http://www.azfamily.com/video/gmaz-index.html?nvid=258101&shu=1

http://www.azfamily.com/video/gmaz-index.html?nvid=258110&shu=1

http://www.azfamily.com/video/gmaz-index.html?nvid=258147&shu=1

Mara's 1 year doc appt

On Wednesday June 25th Mara had her one year appointment with the pediatrician. Mara is now 17.8 pounds and 28 3/4" tall. Her weight is in the 3% and height is in the 30%. The weight is the concern right now as the 3% is on the road to a ''failure to thrive'' diagnosis. Mara is now to drink one pediasure a day in hopes of it putting some weight on her. We will also be going for monthly weight checks. This child is the worse to feed. Early on she would eat whatever I put in front of her. Now its a fight. Screaming and crying and mommy and daddy getting all upset!!! Fingers crossed the pediasure works.

9 yr old David Militello - sings - 2008 America's Got Talent

A weekend of LEGO fun!!!

This weekend is the grand opening at the LEGO Store. Doug is so excited!! For those local folks Brad from Channel 3 will be broadcasting live from the store on Thursday from 5-9 am. The AZ Republic and East Valley Tribune were at the store today taking pictures and getting stories together. Not sure when those will be in the papers though. Doug is anticipating huge crowds this weekend. There will be a small LEGO freebie give away to folks who come to the grand opening. Doug said its a cactus/Arizona theme. Anyone has any questions please feel free to drop me a quick email. I am sure I will have pictures to post at the end of the weekend.


A Weekend of LEGO Fun!

Friday, June 27, 2008 through Sunday, June 29, 2008
Fun, games and prizes are all part of the plan as the LEGO Store arrives at Chandler Fashion Center.

A real LEGO Master Builder will be on hand to construct an 8-foot tall LEGO model of Star Wars' R2D2. Children and LEGO enthusiasts will use small LEGO bricks to build a larger brick, which the Master Builder will use to construct the large model.

Throughout the event the Master Builder will conduct trivia contests and games, awarding LEGO sets to winners. When they complete their large brick, each participant will receive a voucher to be redeemed at the LEGO Store for a Certificate of Achievement. At the end of the event, those who participated in the construction of the model will be able to have their pictures taken with the completed model.


The LEGO Master Builder will be at work on the model during the following times:

Friday, June 27 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, June 28 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday, June 29 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cardboard Testimonies

I wanted share this. For you Christian folks you might want to get the kleenex close by. Enjoy

Potty training successes

So we've been really focusing on getting Airen potty trained. Its been a huge challenge for us all. No matter what we try or bribes we use it doesn't work. So finally over the last week Airen has been going on his own to potty!!! Today he started going on the ''big'' toilet and not the potty chair so that is awesome!!! Possibly by the time school starts August 11th he will be fully potty trained!!! Of course there are still the times that he's so absorbed playing that he forgets to stop what he's doing and go potty. At least we are heading in the right direction!! Yeah Airen!!!

Week in review

Last week was a bit crazy. Tuesday Airen woke with a bit of a stomach bug. He had the poops all day. No therapy for him that day. Wednesday he was feeling better so that was good. Thursday early morning I woke early with the flu bug, thanks Airen. Again no therapies for Airen this day. I pretty much lived on the couch and the kids just had free rein.

Thursday was also the opening day of the Lego Store so Doug was busy with that. The last few weeks for Doug have been busy working to get the Lego store up and going ready for opening. Doug is amazed at how popular the store has become and the sales numbers are just off the charts. I'm happy to hear that as the bonus system is based on the sales!!! Yes I am money hungry, but who wouldn't be with the gas and food prices how they are.

This week my best friend (yes I have more then one!!) in Ohio booked airfare to come visit with her son in October. I am so excited to see her and meet her little man!!! At least she's coming once the weather is a bit cooler rather then the 110 degree temperatures we are having now.

Yesterday we (as a family) reorganized the den and Airen's room. We moved the train (now Lego table) to Airen's room. We moved a bookcase from his room to the den and then moved toys to the garage. The den now has more floor room for the kids to play. Airen loves having all his toys in his room away from his sister!! Next the living room toys will be moved to the den and my living room will be toy free and only for therapy and tv watching. YEAH!!! It's taken some time but we are slowly getting organized. There is still some clutter of books and such but we are getting there.

Not too much planned for this week except Airen's therapies. Its going to be 110 degrees or higher all week. Hope everyone has a good week.

Mara's 1st birthday party

Yesterday we had Mara's first birthday party. Want to thank my parents for letting us have it at their house. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We ordered sandwich trays from Costco and had salads and fruit to eat. I wasn't cooking. Doug's parents flew in from MA on Friday night especially for the party. Mara had two special cakes for her to dig into!!! She really seemed to enjoy the cake part. She also like vanilla ice cream. With Airen he would never, and still doesn't, touch sweets. Going to include a few pictures, they aren't the greatest as I was trying to be photographer and keep kids happy. Want to thank a special APA mommy for making Mara's shirt, it was a huge hit!!! Can't wait to get one for Airen.

PENGUINS?!?!?!

Well I just saw on the news that the Penguins have lost again. They aren't doing too well with the Stanley Cup playoffs. The Redwings are kicking some serious butt. Haven't been able to watch the games as we've been busy with Doug being home but I do make sure to check out scores on the news each night.

Congrats goes out to a friend I worked with at Dobson. She is now engaged and enjoying some vacation time in Hawaii!! I am so excited for them and their new life together.

Its off to bed in hopes of Mara sleeping more then two hours at a time.

and she's off---walking

For the last two weeks Mara has been taking a few steps here and there then falls on her bum. Yesterday she was taking more and more steps. Today she's all over the place walking!! She starts moving fast and then falls and gets right back up and off she goes again. Of course she's so cute to watch walk because she is so short, only 27 inches tall. I keep calling her my little pixie!!

Not too much going on for us this holiday weekend except enjoying having Doug back home. Hope everyone enjoys the weekend and stays safe.

Daddy's home!!!

Picked Doug up last evening around 9:30 pm. Airen was so excited!! Mara hasn't let daddy out of her sight and I am just relieved to have another set of hands here with me. Doug of course brought presents home. Airen got one Star War Lego set right now and there is a box of others on the way. Doug got me this beautiful charm bracelet from Brighton. It's got a birthstone charm for each of the kids and a pretty heart charm. I was so shocked he picked it out on his own!! Before Airen went to bed he crawled into Doug's lap and started crying and hugging daddy. Told Doug how much he missed him! It was so sweet. I think Airen was starting to think that daddy wasn't coming back. Two weeks was a very long time to be away.

Today we got laundry finished then drove to Queen Creek. Doug's parents arrive Friday night so we got the house cleaned up for them. It was so dusty but now its cleaned and ready for them to arrive. While we were out in Queen Creek we stopped at Wal Mart for a few things and Miss Mara would not let daddy put her down. She wanted him and no one else. It was very funny!!

I am off to finish making Mara a tutu to wear for some birthday pictures. A nice mommy friend made a beautiful custom appliqued shirt for Mara. It has a cupcake and a candle and Mara's name on it. I cannot wait for it to arrive!!! Doug keeps laughing saying I am so not that girlie mommy and here I am making a tutu and a matching shirt!!! Oh well I am enjoying having a girl!!

Graduation pictures

Wanted to share a few pictures from the preschool graduation last evening. Still in awe over how well Airen did. This morning the teachers and aides all commented how far he's come in a year's time so that made me proud.

Preschool Graduation!!!

This evening was Airen's preschool graduation program!! I was one proud momma!! How great things change in one year. Last year's program Airen was spinning in circles and chewing his fingers and wanted nothing to do with the singing. This evening he was right next to his friends singing and doing the hand motions. I was so proud of him! He did a wonderful job and has come a long way. We cannot thank his teacher and the room aides enough for all they've done this last school year. They truly love their jobs and the children and I am forever greatful for their love and service. His teacher will be moving in a few weeks to be closer to family and we will truly miss her. We've come to consider her a very close family friend. We've both shared good and bad times together over the last 18 months. We wish her and her son lots of love and luck with their new adventure. Of course Airen thinks he will be in the kindergarden class right next to his preschool class. He isn't understanding that she won't be there in the fall.

Tomorrow Doug will be going to Enfield to the Lego corporate offices. He's excited. Airen is excited as they have a company store with discounted/discontinued Lego sets. Hoping Doug doesn't come home with too many sets. I am getting sick of seeing Legos everywhere I turn!!

Doug will be home Friday night and we cannot wait!! Its been a very long two weeks--too long for Airen. I am hoping I can get a nice 3-4 hour nap Saturday or Sunday--yeah right, who am I kidding?!?!?

I HATE meltdowns

So this afternoon mom and I and the kids ran to the grocery store for a few things. Things were going great with Airen in one cart and Mara in another. Gathered what we needed pretty quickly. Then Airen noticed the toy section. Before even heading there it was known that no toys would be bought at all. NOTHING. He was doing okay to start with then found something he just had to have. He was told NO and we continued to head for the checkouts. Let me just tell you that unless you've experienced first hand a child with autism and what can happen from over stimulation you won't understand the next part. Airen all out throw an all out classic screaming fit. I think the whole store heard us and I know employees were concerned as one lingered near us to make sure we weren't hurting the child I am sure. So much for the cart full of stuff. I just needed to get Airen out of the cart and out of the store. Kicking and screaming I make my way out of the store carrying him. We get outside and he is so upset he is about to throw up. More store employees outside watching. More people watching and making their own conclusions to things going on. Let me tell you it is just horrible to have Airen react like this. Most times he doesnt' even remember the screaming, the hitting or the kicking. I just have to keep reminding myself "He is doing the best he knows how" no matter what others think.

There are some days that I just want to run and hide from autism. There are other days that I am just in pure amazement of my son. He's the most loving and caring little boy. Out of the blue he will say ''mommy I love you'' and its those moments that my heart melts. Of when Mara is upset and he starts to sing songs to her ''to make her happy''.

A dear friend of mine reminded me of somethings this evening. She told me the following
"you are a strong woman, and I think God gives special kids to special mothers, cause not everyone can handle as much as you!!" I thank her for reminding me of this and for putting things back into perspective for me. To my friend again I tell you ''thank you for being there this evening when I needed a friend. I love you!!"'

With this said 7 more long days till Doug returns from Boston and I cannot wait. Two weeks is a very long time to be gone and I know the kids miss their daddy.

Half way there

Penguins 2 Flyers 4
Really thought the Pens would win this one. Better luck next game.
Yes I am following the scores for you my dear friend!!! Kept looking at stats on FoxSports most of the night.

So tomorrow is Friday and the kids and I have made it through the first week. Of course I have an ear ache and sore throat. Hoping to get an appointment with a doctor tomorrow. Also need to get the van in for brakes. It is so embarassing driving around with this loud pitched squeaking.

Not much else going on around here. Both kids are asleep. Hopefully Mara sleeps for more then 2 hours. All week she's been up every two hours and then it takes another 20-30 minutes to get her back to sleep. Stupid upper teeth are coming in and making things horrible.

Happy weekend to everyone!!

Penguins 4 Flyers 1

Looks like the Penguins could take the series against the Flyers!! No I am not into hockey as much as I used to be when I lived in PA. Heck I was in love with Jagr!!! I remember one birthday I received a ton of Pittsburgh Penguin stuff from a friend. I think I still have the plush penguins in storage. I followed the Pittsburgh Penguins faithfully. Then life happened. These days I can't even seem to watch all that is on the TIVO before I hit the 100% full message and no more can be saved. So for now I am just having to resort to checking the scores online and remembering the old days when I could sit through an entire game late into the nights.

I just got Airen back to sleep from a night terror. I HATE NIGHT TERRORS!! They are horrible. If one hasn't had the pleasure of experiencing one, be glad. Basically its a bad dream Airen has escalated 1000 times. He's not really awake and is shaking and screaming and sweating. NOT FUN!! Of course now that he's got the loft bed I had to wrestle to get him down and to the floor all the while he's screaming in my ear. Once on the floor I attempted to get him to walk around and snap out of it. Once he was awake he kept saying over and over again ''no don't hurt me''. So my guess is someone or something was after him. Of course he doesn't even remember what happens most times. He was kind of upset at me and just wanted to go back to sleep. Told me when he laid down not to wake him again. Thankfully Mara only stirred a bit and is still asleep. The joys of autism.

Tomorrow is our free day. No school or therapy or doctor appointments. Might see how Airen is acting and see about getting the van to a mechanic. The front driver's side tire makes this awful squeaking noise only when accelerating. Not when I apply the brakes. And the noise is only there at speeds under 55-60. Its really annoying. If anyone has a clue to what this could be please comment. Doug's car also needs to get in for an oil change. I don't think it's had one for awhile so figure get it all ready for his return in 10 more days.

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all my mommy friends!! I hope everyone had a very special day with their children.

Friday evening Doug took me to dinner since he was leaving for Boston today. We had a nice dinner at Logan's Steakhouse. Had never been there before and it was excellent. We will probably go back there again in the future. It was also the first time in a very long time that I've had a drink--amaretto sour---yummy!!!

Saturday mom and I went to pick up a few more pants for the men. We also hit up Children's Place for some awesome deals. Airen and mom sat outside the store and Airen was falling asleep on the bench. First sign there was something not right. I felt his head and he was burning up. Usually he gets a fever and its an ear infection so off we went to urgent care. I dont' even call the pediatrician anymore. Sure enough he had a fever of 101.8 and has strep throat. I was so impressed he let the doctor swab his throat with no complaints. Doug was doing interviews all day with Lego so he missed on this fun. Also while at urgent care I was informed that Airen's long term care/Medicaid insurance was inactive. WHAT THE HECK?!?!? I was in shock and very upset as there was no warning to this. Of course the weekend customer service can only tell me it was made inactive as of April 30th. So one more thing to add to my Monday ''to do'' list. Now I have to worry about the week of therapies he's already had. Trying to stay positive. We know that with the autism diagnosis we really can't be dropped without notice so we are hoping it was a computer issue. Hopefully we get this figured out so I am not having to cancel his therapies and respite/hab for the week.

Doug was so great and got me an iPod shuffle. Yes we are behind the times with electronics. Doug figured he'll be gone for two weeks and this will give me something to do while he's gone. Like taking care of two children isn't enough?!?!

And for my bestest friend in the East.

Penguins 4 Flyers 2.

Penguins lead the series 2-0!!!

LOVE YA!!!!

Good bye Barnes & Noble...Hello LEGO

Today was Doug's last day at Barnes & Noble. I think he was a little sad to say good bye to many co-workers. He really did enjoy working at Barnes & Noble and would have stayed if Lego didn't come along. This evening he started with Lego and is doing interviews for an assistant manager. He will have interviews again tomorrow and possibly on Saturday. Friday he will be home and getting packed to leave on Sunday. Two weeks without Doug will be FUN!!! (if you believe that one you need help!)

Today I took the kids to Portrait Innovations for pictures. The purpose was for Mara's first birthday and because I haven't done any professional pictures of her since she was born. I know BAD mommy. With Airen I did them for every holiday and for cute outfits I had for him. With Mara I just took my own pictures. Surprisingly Airen did so well with pictures. Little Miss Mara (as Airen refers to his sister) had other plans. She pretty much had an attitude for the first part of the session. She got a little better by the end. I think the photographer was a bit of a jerk and I will be addressing that with the corporate office. The photographer actually had the nerve to tell me that "we need to start and wrap this up." Not good customer service. Pictures turned out beautifully. If you want to view them send me a message and I will share the Kodak album with you.

Last evening Airen went to Miss Wendy's. Was supposed to just drop him off and come back in a two hours but I stayed and Miss Wendy and I talked. Wendy and I are both hoping to put our heads together and see about starting a support group for parents here in Maricopa. We both have had our fair share of problems with the school district and have managed to figure things out. We both know that there are many families out there who really aren't educated and don't know the resources available to them. So Wendy and I are going to see about starting something for our district. I was so excited because since Airen started the preschool in January 2007 I knew there were problems and have wanted to do something. Now is my chance. I am so excited!!! Wendy and I are going to see about sitting down over lunch or dinner in the near future and brainstorm things to get started for the new school year.

We have a car...well almost

Doug and I went this afternoon to look at car for him. 1997 Toyota Avalon!! It is beautiful and the price is perfect. Since he and I both had cars this afternoon we left a small deposit and will go back tomorrow after Airen has music therapy to get the new wheels. He is so excited!!! Tomorrow the 1989 Toyota Camry is also going to disappear from our lives. It is parked in front of the house right now waiting for the folks to come tow it. We are donating it to The Autism Society of America. We are all about the autism awareness so it works out great.

Doug has received his travel arrangements for Boston. He leaves early on Mother's Day--yuck!! He's already said he's going to have to make it up BIG with me. Told him some jewelry would be nice!! He will return Friday May 23. The store manager he's training with got them tickets to see the Red Sox play on May 19 and he's excited about that. I know Doug's parents are also excited as he's hoping to drive there for the weekend and see his brother and sister and the nephews. Of course he says he just wants to see the kids and get his clothes washed. So far everyone with Lego has been so welcoming and nice to us both. I am excited for this new chapter.

Mara has been attempting to take steps today. This evening she took 2-3 steps then would laugh and fall on her butt. She is definately my out of control crazy child!!! Such a difference in how she's developing from Airen. Its been kind of a bittersweet experience for us. We are now able to look back at things with Airen and see where he was slightly behind developmentally. Of course his brain is so smart.

This week Airen got a new bed. I cruise on craigslist everyday looking for bargains. Well this bed is the best yet. Its a loft style bed with a shelf and desk below. Its from Ikea and retails somewhere around $350-400. I got it for...drum roll please...$5.00!! Yes you read correctly. Way to go mommy!! Airen loves it and says its his hiding place. Of course I get nervous him being so high up and all. He's taken all his stuffed animals up there and has a pile of books there, in case he wakes up or anything.

Well now that I've written a book I am off to get to bed. Happy weekend to everyone!!

Bring on the LEGOS

Doug just got off the phone with the Lego folks. He has accepted the position!!! He will be flying to the Boston area on or around May 12th for two weeks. He was told he could be there for 5 days and come home for the weekend or just stay straight through. He's thinking he'd just stay straight through and if he gets the weekend off he can go see his family. He really wants to go see the nephews!!! Of course I am not so sure of two weeks home alone with two children--yikes!! So if anyone wants to come visit Arizona between May 12 and 23 let me know!!!

Yesterday we had an appointment for Airen at the Developmental Pediatrician's office. We saw someone new, a nurse practitioner (NP) and we really liked her!! Airen was having a blast building Star Wars ships from blocks. His imagination is just amazing and the NP was amazed at his language and imagination. He did have a meltdown during the appointment. He is used to being in the same playroom each appointment but this time we were in a different room with different toys and he was really upset about that. He quickly pulled it together though and things were fine.

Today Airen has field day at school. Pretty much the preschool-second grade students will be taking part in all sorts of fun obstacle course type activities. Airen said it was going to be good day like when we went to the butterfly garden!!! He's so sweet!!

Lego Store

Today Doug had an interview with Lego Store. The interview lasted from 8:30am until 2:30pm. Well around 5:30pm he received a call offering him the position of store manager. When he left the interview he was told he'd hear by week's end. Never figured we'd hear this fast. The job will be more money for us and health benefits would start on day one. We both are excited about the opportunity. Doug is going to call the person back tomorrow to speak to him some more about a few details. The want him to start May 7th then have two weeks of training. Of all places the training would be in BOSTON!! Nothing like going back home for job training. I want to know the exact dates of training especially since we have Mara's first birthday planned for Memorial day and his parents will be here for the birthday and into June to visit. I am so excited yet nervous. Doug is so happy at Barnes & Noble that I'd hate for him to leave but the fact that Doug loves Legos and the money are huge factors in the decision to go work for them. I will write more once we know what is going on.

Mara still has a yucky belly. The rash she's had since Saturday is kind of here and there. Tomorrow Airen has an appointment with the developmental pediatrician. These are usually big appointments and we get a lot of information about Airen's progress and things we should be working on.

I think I am off to have a wine cooler. Talk tomorrow once we know more.

Butterfly Garden

Airen's favorite butterfly

Butterfly on Mara's bonnet




Yesterday morning mom and I took the kids to the Desert Botanical Garden. They have a butterfly exhibit going on now and we wanted to check it out. We weren't too sure how Airen would react but much to our surprise he had a blast. It is this greenhouse type building with beautiful gardens and butterflies everywhere. Airen had so much fun looking at the list of butterflies and finding them throughout the garden. Mara had one land on her bonnet and another on her fingers. So awesome. We probably spent about an 45 minutes to an hour in the garden and then Airen told us he had enough so out we went. I was very proud of him and how much fun it was for us all.

Score one for the mommy!!!

First off I need to thank Naw for coming to sit with the silly kids while we attended this meeting. When Doug and I left Mara was grouchy crying cause of the teeth coming in and Airen was having a screaming fit over who knows what.

I am just ready to jump from my skin I am so proud of myself. This morning Doug and I had Airen's transition to kindergarden IEP meeting. I was nervous going into the meeting as I was told to expect the team to want to cut some services and not even consider other things I wanted in his IEP. We took our home occupational therapist (OT) with us and I am so thankful she was there. The preschool team and the elementary team were present. Well let's just say the elementary team was NOT prepared and had not done any reading of the IEP that was prepared by Airen's teachers. When they told us that Airen's OT services would be CUT I really thought our home OT was going to jump across the table she was that upset. I too was upset and calmly voiced my concerns and issues. The preschool team was getting very upset because the elementary team was pretty much setting Airen up to fail in the kindergarden level. It was then suggested we add the OT on an ''as needed basis''. NOT HAPPENING. I know what ''as needed'' means and that wording would not be on our child's IEP. We got to discussing a few other issues and they also started to take the ''let's wait and see'' approach. Again NOT HAPPENING!!! When it was all said and done I got what I wanted. What I wanted includes Airen having a paraprofessional aide in the class with HIM to help keep him on task and to help with any meltdowns that make come up. The aide will also help with the toileting issues. We are lucky because the school principal is also the district representative so the aide for Airen got approved on the spot!!!! Again I am just so shocked that things got approved and it looks like the teams are taking this momma serious!!!

Could she be getting teeth?!?!?

So this afternoon Mara put something in her mouth (big surprise right?!?) and I had to go digging for it. Well on the bottom it is very sharp. Feels as if two teeth are about to cut through. Would explain the cranky, clingly baby girl I've had today. She's also been feeling warm to the touch. Finally my 10 month old is going to get teeth!! Of course Doug says he's not getting excited till he sees those pearly whites!!!

It is time to give little one some tylenol (in hopes of it helping her to sleep) and get her to bed. Doug is off tomorrow and we are going to hopefully go look at a car. I also want to see about putting Airen in big boy undies for the day but we will see what kind of fight that brings. Poor kid just does not get the whole I feel I need to potty therefore I need to go to the toilet. Another joy of a child with autism.

Good night to you and good night to you. Sleep tight to one and all!!

Consignment sale update

So I finally got my check from the consignment sale. Drum roll please....I made $200 selling the kids clothes and some toys. I am very pleased as the average consignor made $125. They will be doing the sale again in the fall and I already have boxes of stuff at my mom's so I will just have to start tagging it for the sale. I have also been putting stuff on craigslist and making some cash. Speaking of craigslist I need to go relist some of my ads and put up a few new ones.

I spent yesterday going to a new Goodwill and found some great bargains for Mara. She got a ton of fall clothes for only $1.00 a piece. I also got us a really big George Foreman grill for $16. We'd been looking to get a new one but the $50 price tag was not too nice. So for $16 I am happy and cannot wait to use it tonight to make burgers and grilled veggies on it!!!

Yesterday afternoon I stopped at my old office to see some friends. It was quick stop and I still got to see many friends. Mara was such a flirt and so happy with everyone. Of course they all asked when I was returning to work there, I told them NEVER!!! Being home with my little ones is far more rewarding then any paycheck ever will be.

Still waiting for my dear east coast friend to get in touch with me. Taxes are due today so I am sure I will hear from you tonight or tomorrow!!!

Happy Birthday!!!

Happy birthday wishes go out to my mom and my cousin today!! Airen and I made Naw a cake and took it to her earlier this afternoon. Airen ate the icing and that was all he wanted. When you ask Airen ''how old is Naw?" His response is "she's two fives and I will be one five on my birthday!!" He is too funny.

When the kids and I got home this afternoon I was getting the van unloaded and I went to unlock the door. I couldn't find my keys. Back the the van we go and I empty out every bag I have with me. At this point I am not sure if I even took my keys from the house this morning or if I possibly left them at my parents. I call mom, who is at a dinner party and she just laughs. I then call Doug because that is the only other option is driving to Tempe to get Doug's keys. He is just laughing at me and I am sure his co-workers got a good laugh. The keys were finally found at the BOTTOM of the diaper bag. When they got thrown in there I do not know. Of course Airen would have liked to go to daddy's store but I am glad I didn't have to make that drive. Score one for the scatterbrained mommy!!

Not too much else going on around the crazy Arizona Fortunato house. Doug is working till midnight tonight and tomorrow night. Please no hit and run accident either night.

NEWS?? What NEWS???

To one of my longest and dearest friends back east...(YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE!!!!)

You leave me a message that you have news for me but leave me hanging. I have been searching all over looking to see if I have a phone number for you, I DON'T. My wonderful husband is laughing calling me NOSY. Yes I am nosy but I want to know the NEWS. If you are reading this, check your email and call me!!!

Rant over, you may all return to your regularly scheduled and hectic lives!!!

Goodbye Saturn

So this afternoon I went to gather the rest of the stuff from the Saturn and said goodbye. This would have been the first car we purchased and paid off. Oh well time to move on and find a more reliable inexpensive car. We did get more money then we were originally told and if the idiot who hit us comes forward we will get our $500 deductible back. In the meantime we are on the lookout for a car. Of course finding time for Doug to look at cars has been fun with him working.

Mara just ate her first popsicle and is now upset because its gone!!! Airen on the hand is on his second popscicle.

Went out with my parents and the kids to the outlet mall only for it to last in one store. Airen had a meltdown and that was the end of it. One of these days I am going to learn and just go shopping alone with no kids. I also need to see about getting little business cards about Autism so when this does happen I don't get the looks and the rude comments. Instead it can become an educational experience about Autism.

Total lose

So the Saturn has been deemed a total lose. Bye bye Saturn, hello looking for another car. Of course with what we will be given I am not sure what kind of reliable car we will be getting. Thankfully my dad is searching for us.

We got the trampoline put together last night. This morning was like Christmas for Airen. He was so excited!!! After school he was out on the trampoline having a blast!!!

Still no word on the car

I spoke to someone at State Farm yesterday afternoon and they still hadn't sent out a rep to look at the car. I was hoping to hear from them this afternoon but no word. My guess is the car is going to be totaled out. I just want this all over with so we can move on and find another car for Doug to drive to work. My dad has been searching for reliable, reasonably priced cars for us and has found a few good ones. We just need to see how much the insurance is going to give us.

Dad and I just got back from getting a trampoline!!! I am so excited for Airen. He is going to be having so much fun. I found the trampoline on craigslist and the family wasn't too far from mom and dad's. It was so easy to take apart and I cannot wait to get home and get it together. We just need to see about getting a mat to cover the springs and an enclosure. Those are my next purchases. Those will probably cost me more then the trampoline did!

Heard from an old high school friend today. She had her baby a month before Mara so we were comparing notes on our kids. She also told me that another high school friend lost her mother a few weeks ago to a sudden heart attack, she was only 56 years old.

Total lose or able to fix???

The Saturn got towed this afternoon to the body shop. The person called this later this afternoon asking how many other accidents the car had been in previously? Guess the body shop guy had a little trouble believing the front and back end damage were from the same hit and run accident. We spoke to the insurance and they are going to the bodyshop tomorrow to determine if they are going to repair it or total it out. Again not the outcome we were hoping for as I am sure the totalled out amount won't be much. Doug and I have been searching on craigslist hoping to find a resonably priced car for him to drive to work. I also have dad searching to see what he can find. Just really bites because we just put over $700 into the car to get it running perfect and now that money is down the drain. Doug is hoping that since we did just do a big service to the car that the insurance will put that into consideration when they total it out. My guess is they won't but we will talk to them tomorrow and get a better idea of what is going on. And to think the last payment gets sent this month also. Isn't that how it usually goes? You pay off a car and it dies????

HIT and RUN

I managed to get both kids in their beds asleep before 9pm last night. Great I can get to bed early and get some sleep as Doug works till midnight. Well at about 12:15am Mara woke hungary. I got her back to sleep and Doug is calling telling me he was just hit. A hit and run accident. Thankfully he was okay and only the car has lots of damage. He called the police and DPS showed up and luckily Doug got a look at the license plate and color and type of car. DPS was able to match the plate with someone who lives about 15 miles past our house. Now the trick is that this person has insurance. We filed a claim with the insurance first thing this morning but being Sunday there really wasn't much they could do. I am sure my wonderful agent will be calling me first thing Monday morning. My parents are nice enough to let us borrow one of their cars. I am hoping the repair shop can just come tow the car as Doug said the alignment is really messed up now too. Plus we just had all the repair work done two weeks ago and a new radiator and the coolant light came on last night. We are hoping there is no damage under the hood. Again never a dull moment in our house!!

We had a rough few hours this afternoon with Airen. I just wish we could figure out what triggers the meltdowns. I was so upset and exhausted from fighting with him that I finally took Mara out in the stroller and just sat outside crying. It just breaks my heart that I cannot reason with him during a meltdown. Today's was because I told him to get dressed so we could go get Naw's car. I keep telling Doug one of these times the police are going to show up at our house. Anyways. I am off to get showered and head to bed.

What a day

Happy Saturday one and all!!

This morning I was up bright and early and hit a community garage sale. I was happy I went. I got Airen a big bin of Legos for $1.00!!! Got big bag of wooden trains and track for $3.00, bins with locking lids for the Legos $.75 and a bunch of fall outfits for Mara at $.25/outfit!!! Later in the morning I picked up mom and we went to Goodwill. It was half price day and I was hoping to find summer clothes for me and the kids, instead Doug got three pairs of Dockers pants for work. Then Airen had a few meltdowns.

Airen's parent teacher conference Friday went very well. He is making a lot of progress in the classroom. We are looking at the full day kindy right now but at his transition meeting April 18th there will be a lot of issues to be covered. Airen is one that is very sensitive and if someone scolds him publicly he gets embarrassed. He is also still not potty trained. The last few nights he's really been trying to go on the potty so that is good. I just wish it would happen already.

I "think" Mara is finally on a sleep schedule. The last week she's slept at least 5 hours straight then up for a feeding then back to sleep for at least another 2-3 hours. Some mornings she will wake at 5 am so she ends up in bed with us, usually cuddled up with daddy.

Tomorrow Doug is off and Airen will get to go to respite/habilitation. He's excited as he gets to play with his friends and jump on the trampoline. We are still on the lookout for an inexpensive one but so far all we are seeing is $250-300 and that is more then I am willing to pay.

I am off. Airen is in Mara's room entertaining her while she's in her crib. So much for her being asleep early tonight!!!

TGIF!!!

The title says it all. I am so glad we are at the end of this week.

This morning my mom will be coming down to sit with the kids while we have a parent teacher conference. Pretty much a quick thing as I am in contact with his teacher on a regular basis on things. Yesterday he had his ''extra'' OT at school and he was not happy. This therapist does not like to work with the preschool children. Every Thursday he has his ''extra'' OT and every Thursday he comes up telling me he colored AGAIN. I told him to just tell the teacher he does not want to color. He didn't color Thursday, instead they worked on cutting and gluing.

On April 18th we have a transition to kindy meeting at the school. This meeting will be a big one with lots of folks from the special ed program and the regular ed teachers and principal and therapist. This meeting I am not looking forward to because we know they are going to push up to enroll Airen in a full day kindy but we do not want to do that. We know he's academically ready but socially and maturity wise he's not. If they want him full day then I want him to have an aide. There is no way my son will be able to focus in a class of 30 students with ONE teacher. He will be too distracted and over stimulated. We are still working on things for other districts and I am waiting for a call from the department of education.

I got a list for approved summer camps for Airen and made a few calls. Let me just say SCARY. My son is 4 years old and what some of these camps told me they do I was shocked. One camp takes the kids to the movies once a week, to the pool once a week and then to either Wal-Mart or Target once a week. NOT HAPPENING with my child. The woman had the nerve to tell me to let go already when I said I didn't think her camp was for us as my son drives only with our family and only goes to the pool with my family. Another camp on the list has a reputation of near drownings of children while in their care and parents weren't notified till weeks later of the situation. Again not with my child. I am waiting for a few to call me back.

Mara has been all over the place. She has been putting herself in a standing position and letting go for the last week. She gets up and looks around then lets go and laughs. Its too cute. She has this small wagon that she spends lots of time sitting in. She likes it when brother pushes her back and forth in it. Airen brought home a balloon from school yesterday and she spent awhile yesterday just laughing at it and hitting it. She has also discovered her voice. Out of nowhere she will just start screaming. Not a gentle type scream but a blood curdiling scream that hurts the ears. She screams then stops and laughs. Poor Airen gets so upset and runs to cover his ears.

Well Mara is finally content in her crib asleep so I am heading back to my bed. Till next time!! Have a great one!!