...and running out of blogging time this morning.
Made a really nice dessert - a mango mousse - yesterday that made me think of my Singapore Connection. Living in Singapore, and having tons of access to all the yummy fruits like mango, it just seemed to me to be something she would make. Will be curious to find out what she thinks...
I enjoyed it, as did hubby, but the boys - not so much. The A-man gave his dessert a few spoonful chances, but S decided it was a 'no go' right away. I saved the extra desserts, and let the R-man try it. He told me that it just seemed too sour, or something. His first comment was that it had tooo much lemon in it - there isn't any lemon in it! Maybe I didn't use enough of the yogurt cream to the mango ratio - not sure, since I have never made it before.
After the boys left the table, I realized that is probably the first time they have had mango! Funny considering how much I enjoy it, but I guess since it is such an expensive fruit, I tend to not share with those that just won't appreciate... ;o)
I was a "food prep" machine last night. Made a big pot of chili, then portioned them and put them in the freezer. Prepped up a few "omelet baggies" so that it will be faster in the mornings when Hubby or I want to make an omelet. Got the ole meat-slicer humming and then wrapped up a bunch of meats that can be used for lunches. PLUS I made the turkey patties we are going to have for dinner tonight!
S and the A-man were VERY good to clean up after dinner - even doing all of the pots and pans by hand - with no complaining what so ever! They wiped both kitchen and dining room tables off, AND all the counters - well, minus the stove-top. But that is still a pretty good job for them.
Hubby and I went and bought some new appliances yesterday. Geesh, what an exhausting job that can be! I never knew washing machines can be so technologically advanced. I simply want a machine that I can put dirty clothes in, and after a while, clean clothes come out! I wouldn't even have to be doing this if my current machine didn't seem to be having issues with the drainage. But, we have an older machine, and I have been saying for a while that I would really like to get one of those front-loaders that uses so little water, plus is energy efficient.
Just as we were getting ready to look at new washing machines, the dishwasher started it's 'big leak' again. We have tolerated this for quite a while - cuz it only happens 'sometimes' - but Hubby said, "Oh well, we are going anyway, might as well get a new dishwasher, too."
New washer AND dryer AND dishwasher will arrive on Wednesday. I'm still not quite sure who that man was in my husband's body...
Head is pounding and throat is burning. I hate it when I get sick.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Sunday again
Weekends just go by way to quickly. Had a great couple of days with Cuz, and was sad to see them leave early this afternoon. One positive thing, however - I am going to be heading to her house in three weeks time, so we will get to have another weekend of fun and merriment!
Did a wee bit of house tidy, and now I am trying to figure out what to do next. There are many things I SHOULD do, but so very few that I really want to do. Hubby just took the ATV out to see if the boys may be able to do some runs in the neighbouring famer's field, but I think the snow may be a bit too mushy for that.
The A-man has asked if he can go to the high-school dance on Thursday night. I will be going to the school for parent-teacher interviews, so I don't see why that would be a problem. I am thrilled that he wants to go - these sorts of things have never been interesting to him before. Of course S wondered if he would be able to go, but I think he was asking that question more to annoy his brother than anything else.
Think I am coming down with a cold - scratchy throat started last night, and it's feeling really thick and sore today. (sigh...) Always one thing or another, isn't it??
Did a wee bit of house tidy, and now I am trying to figure out what to do next. There are many things I SHOULD do, but so very few that I really want to do. Hubby just took the ATV out to see if the boys may be able to do some runs in the neighbouring famer's field, but I think the snow may be a bit too mushy for that.
The A-man has asked if he can go to the high-school dance on Thursday night. I will be going to the school for parent-teacher interviews, so I don't see why that would be a problem. I am thrilled that he wants to go - these sorts of things have never been interesting to him before. Of course S wondered if he would be able to go, but I think he was asking that question more to annoy his brother than anything else.
Think I am coming down with a cold - scratchy throat started last night, and it's feeling really thick and sore today. (sigh...) Always one thing or another, isn't it??
Friday, March 28, 2008
TGIF
I am so happy today! Cuz is coming for a visit!!!!!!! :o)
Got an email from her yesterday and it looked shaky for a little while - her hubby has been so ill, and, yet again, there is another kink in the plans. But, I got a phone call from her last night, and it turns out that he didn't need to be admitted to the hospital (thank heavens) but he is now on a heavy duty antibiotic to try and clean up the infection around his new pacemaker. Lately it seems like it's one thing after another, and it has both of them stressed out to the max. I'm feeling for them. So glad I'm going to be seeing you soon!
The A-man didn't get to have his toe procedure yesterday, after all. There is still infection around the site, so our family doctor has put him on another dose of antibotics, and scheduled some time in amblatory care at the hospital for the removal of the wedge of toe nail. Doctor gave a pretty stern lesson on the proper care of nails - both toes and fingers - and I am hoping the A-man actually got it. I've been telling him the same thing for years, but I am just a nag...
Yesterday was Grade 10 literacy testing day across Ontario, so the A-man only had school in the afternoon. Half an hour for each class. Apparently most of his friends were not at school yesterday, but his English teacher (smart lady) told her class that they would be doing the first half of their test, and only a doctor's note would be accepted as reason for not being at school.
The A-man has been asked by a friend to tutor him in math. The boy is in applied Math, and is currently getting a very low mark in the class. The A-man is in acedemic Math, with a 95%, so I guess it was pretty smart to ask him for help. A-man went to the school library to meet the boy - as arranged - and the boy didn't come to school! The A-man said it was okay, because he just used that time to study for his test. Sometimes I still wonder if this is the same child I lived with 2 years ago...
Not that I am complaining!!
S has been having a really good week in school, too. There have been a couple of notes in his agenda saying that he has been staying on task, completing his work, etc. I love it when I get those notes!
I was actually surprised to realize that I have no idea what is happening in S's school right now. I used to be SO involved in the school - both as a volunteer and because I was often in the Principal's office for a meeting about one or the other child - but now, I am there so very rarely. This year I have not received that many phone calls, and, well, things have simmered down quite a bit. Huh - once all of the supports are in place, it's amazing how well the boy can do! The last suspension from last year should be exponged by the end of Grade 8! (Not that I am bragging, but I knew it would be once the bully was dealt with, and the learning issues were too!)
And...off to work!
Got an email from her yesterday and it looked shaky for a little while - her hubby has been so ill, and, yet again, there is another kink in the plans. But, I got a phone call from her last night, and it turns out that he didn't need to be admitted to the hospital (thank heavens) but he is now on a heavy duty antibiotic to try and clean up the infection around his new pacemaker. Lately it seems like it's one thing after another, and it has both of them stressed out to the max. I'm feeling for them. So glad I'm going to be seeing you soon!
The A-man didn't get to have his toe procedure yesterday, after all. There is still infection around the site, so our family doctor has put him on another dose of antibotics, and scheduled some time in amblatory care at the hospital for the removal of the wedge of toe nail. Doctor gave a pretty stern lesson on the proper care of nails - both toes and fingers - and I am hoping the A-man actually got it. I've been telling him the same thing for years, but I am just a nag...
Yesterday was Grade 10 literacy testing day across Ontario, so the A-man only had school in the afternoon. Half an hour for each class. Apparently most of his friends were not at school yesterday, but his English teacher (smart lady) told her class that they would be doing the first half of their test, and only a doctor's note would be accepted as reason for not being at school.
The A-man has been asked by a friend to tutor him in math. The boy is in applied Math, and is currently getting a very low mark in the class. The A-man is in acedemic Math, with a 95%, so I guess it was pretty smart to ask him for help. A-man went to the school library to meet the boy - as arranged - and the boy didn't come to school! The A-man said it was okay, because he just used that time to study for his test. Sometimes I still wonder if this is the same child I lived with 2 years ago...
Not that I am complaining!!
S has been having a really good week in school, too. There have been a couple of notes in his agenda saying that he has been staying on task, completing his work, etc. I love it when I get those notes!
I was actually surprised to realize that I have no idea what is happening in S's school right now. I used to be SO involved in the school - both as a volunteer and because I was often in the Principal's office for a meeting about one or the other child - but now, I am there so very rarely. This year I have not received that many phone calls, and, well, things have simmered down quite a bit. Huh - once all of the supports are in place, it's amazing how well the boy can do! The last suspension from last year should be exponged by the end of Grade 8! (Not that I am bragging, but I knew it would be once the bully was dealt with, and the learning issues were too!)
And...off to work!
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Reflecting
When I arrived home yesterday afternoon, the boys were outside - in the very deep snow - playing baseball. After that they got in to a rousing game of football, which was interesting considering the amount of snow they were trying to run through. I know Spring must be close when I see my children actually going outside - on their own accord - to play. The temps were just above freezing, but yesterday had been so sunny, it almost seemed tropical. (Notice that I said "almost")
Not sure what is going to happen today at work - Boss gave assistant a bit of an ultimatium. I may be looking for another assistant before too long. (sigh)
I went to an information session for the ADHD association last night. What a great session! We had a number of new faces at the meeting, and you could just tell that they were brand new to the whole "Special Education" world. Boy, do I ever remember being in their shoes!
You have SO many questions, and you hear all these acronyms and terms, and you have NO idea what any of it means... it can be daunting for even the most willful of people.
The part that I find most effective in these sessions is the second hour - the hour that is 'open forum' where people get to just discuss what is important to them.
Some people rant - gosh it's nice to be with others that really, truly understand.
Others want advice - my son is lying all of time...how can I get him to stop?" (So typical of the ADHD child...)
And others are just there to help share their years' of experience with the ADHD child. They have 'children' that are in their late teens - these are the true battle veterans that have "been there, done that."
Although the organization may not be very large, it DOES help people understand this often confusing disorder known as ADHD. I just wish we could reach more people! We have a very good board, and we are doing our darndest to get our information out there, but I have found the stigma associated with ADHD is not always the best. Gotta love the media.
Mind you, with jerks like "The Tourette Guy" on the internet, that disorder doesn't get very positive attention, either. Come to think of it, most of the disorders that affect either one, or both of my children, have some pretty negative stereo-types attached to them... Gee, no wonder I felt like a failure as a parent for so many years. At least now I know that I dealt with the cards I was dealt in the best way I could, and now, my kids are pretty darn awesome! :o)
Not sure what is going to happen today at work - Boss gave assistant a bit of an ultimatium. I may be looking for another assistant before too long. (sigh)
I went to an information session for the ADHD association last night. What a great session! We had a number of new faces at the meeting, and you could just tell that they were brand new to the whole "Special Education" world. Boy, do I ever remember being in their shoes!
You have SO many questions, and you hear all these acronyms and terms, and you have NO idea what any of it means... it can be daunting for even the most willful of people.
The part that I find most effective in these sessions is the second hour - the hour that is 'open forum' where people get to just discuss what is important to them.
Some people rant - gosh it's nice to be with others that really, truly understand.
Others want advice - my son is lying all of time...how can I get him to stop?" (So typical of the ADHD child...)
And others are just there to help share their years' of experience with the ADHD child. They have 'children' that are in their late teens - these are the true battle veterans that have "been there, done that."
Although the organization may not be very large, it DOES help people understand this often confusing disorder known as ADHD. I just wish we could reach more people! We have a very good board, and we are doing our darndest to get our information out there, but I have found the stigma associated with ADHD is not always the best. Gotta love the media.
Mind you, with jerks like "The Tourette Guy" on the internet, that disorder doesn't get very positive attention, either. Come to think of it, most of the disorders that affect either one, or both of my children, have some pretty negative stereo-types attached to them... Gee, no wonder I felt like a failure as a parent for so many years. At least now I know that I dealt with the cards I was dealt in the best way I could, and now, my kids are pretty darn awesome! :o)
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
It turns out The A-man lucked out - one of the tests he was supposed to do yesterday has been delayed until Friday. He had a 'take home' Math test yesterday for homework. At least that is one subject that I am not required to help him with very much - not that I would have a hard time with that. Oh no, he needs help in subjects like Science - where I am just so NOT effective...
S brought home some Geography homework last night. I guess he knew that I was justifed in being upset with him yesterday morning, because that was the first thing he said to me when I got home last night. "Hi Mom... I only have Geography homework tonight. How was your day?" Too funny.
I have an information session tonight with the ADHD group. It's a session on "How to read your child's physco-educational assessment," and although I think I have a pretty good grip on this, I will still go to the meeting for a number of reasons. One - it's always good to learn more. Two - I"m on the board of directors, so I need to support the monthly meetings, and Three - I have suggested to a couple of parents that they should consider coming, and I am curious to see if they do.
The one Mom is the lady that I was helping at the beginning of the school year. The Board has actually started a full physco-educational testing on her daughter, and I think it would be very good for her to hear some of the terminology prior to getting that report. Heavens knows, Hubby and I were very confused when we received S's.
Off to the grind...
S brought home some Geography homework last night. I guess he knew that I was justifed in being upset with him yesterday morning, because that was the first thing he said to me when I got home last night. "Hi Mom... I only have Geography homework tonight. How was your day?" Too funny.
I have an information session tonight with the ADHD group. It's a session on "How to read your child's physco-educational assessment," and although I think I have a pretty good grip on this, I will still go to the meeting for a number of reasons. One - it's always good to learn more. Two - I"m on the board of directors, so I need to support the monthly meetings, and Three - I have suggested to a couple of parents that they should consider coming, and I am curious to see if they do.
The one Mom is the lady that I was helping at the beginning of the school year. The Board has actually started a full physco-educational testing on her daughter, and I think it would be very good for her to hear some of the terminology prior to getting that report. Heavens knows, Hubby and I were very confused when we received S's.
Off to the grind...
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Back to school again
I completed one of the nastiest tasks last night - cleaning the refrigerator. How can it get so, so, ICKY so quickly?? I shudder every single time I think about it. Now, though, I just want to open the door and say to everyone, "Look at this - doesn't it look great?!"
Over the weekend I went out and bought - and even installed - black out curtains and normal curtains for The R-man's room. He told me that he's not shy, and pretty sure that with the amount of snow, and being at the back of the house, no one will look in his window. Still - he just got off his first "over-night" shift, and I wanted to know that he would have a way of darkening the room so that he could sleep today. I thought the window was more narrow than it is, but for today the one curtain and one black-out curtain should work well enough. I will stop and get two more panels on my way home tonight.
The A-man has a double English test today, since he didn't go to school on Thursday. He finished up a bunch of homework yesterday, both through the day and in to the evening. S didn't have any homework over the weekend.
Hubby and I had to go in to the near city to pick out new reading glasses for Hubby, and S came with us so that he could get his hair cut. He kept the lady laughing the entire time she was cutting his hair. He can be such a card.
~~~
I just left the computer for a while - got S all squared away for going back to school. As I was putting his lunch bag in to his backpack, I pulled out his agenda to see what has been happening and why he hasn't had much homework. Turns out he has had homework - he has just noticed how hectic our lives have been, and going the on the hope that I wouldn't check his agenda. Which I hadn't. I feel like I am a horrible parent.
I insist that the EA take more time to write in his agenda, and then I get so caught up in other things I don't look at the agenda. Horrible, horrible parent.
Guess I will have to make the checking of the agenda a priority every day. Geesh - just when I thought he was getting better.
Over the weekend I went out and bought - and even installed - black out curtains and normal curtains for The R-man's room. He told me that he's not shy, and pretty sure that with the amount of snow, and being at the back of the house, no one will look in his window. Still - he just got off his first "over-night" shift, and I wanted to know that he would have a way of darkening the room so that he could sleep today. I thought the window was more narrow than it is, but for today the one curtain and one black-out curtain should work well enough. I will stop and get two more panels on my way home tonight.
The A-man has a double English test today, since he didn't go to school on Thursday. He finished up a bunch of homework yesterday, both through the day and in to the evening. S didn't have any homework over the weekend.
Hubby and I had to go in to the near city to pick out new reading glasses for Hubby, and S came with us so that he could get his hair cut. He kept the lady laughing the entire time she was cutting his hair. He can be such a card.
~~~
I just left the computer for a while - got S all squared away for going back to school. As I was putting his lunch bag in to his backpack, I pulled out his agenda to see what has been happening and why he hasn't had much homework. Turns out he has had homework - he has just noticed how hectic our lives have been, and going the on the hope that I wouldn't check his agenda. Which I hadn't. I feel like I am a horrible parent.
I insist that the EA take more time to write in his agenda, and then I get so caught up in other things I don't look at the agenda. Horrible, horrible parent.
Guess I will have to make the checking of the agenda a priority every day. Geesh - just when I thought he was getting better.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Update
It snowed again last night. >:o} ENOUGH already.
The boys have another day off school today. I'm going to have to leave a note with some reminders about things they will need to get done, I think.
I'm so excited! Cuz and her hubby (my 'blood' relative...) are going to come for the weekend next weekend!! I haven't seen her in FAR too long. During the winter months, I usually get down to her place at least twice, but that has not happened at all this year. I was really happy when she said they were going to come. :o) (almost makes up for the snow falling...)
Not really much to report since I wrote so late last night. Guess I should get ready for work...
The boys have another day off school today. I'm going to have to leave a note with some reminders about things they will need to get done, I think.
I'm so excited! Cuz and her hubby (my 'blood' relative...) are going to come for the weekend next weekend!! I haven't seen her in FAR too long. During the winter months, I usually get down to her place at least twice, but that has not happened at all this year. I was really happy when she said they were going to come. :o) (almost makes up for the snow falling...)
Not really much to report since I wrote so late last night. Guess I should get ready for work...
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Weekend updates
The painting didn't happen on Saturday as planned, but it is now finished! What a difference from that horrible wallpaper that was there before.
We had stripped it back before Christmas, but this is the first time either Hubby or I have been in the frame of mind, or required energy state, to complete this task.
I didn't like the fact that we were rushing to complete the task before our parents arrived for Easter dinner, but sometimes we need these sorts of kick in the pants to get jobs done, huh?
I did manage to get most of the meal prep done before everyone arrived. We had a turkey breast - I marinated it for most of the day - along with roasted potatoes, a couple types of veggies, and we started dinner with a spinach salad with raspberries and walnuts.
I set the table early in the day, because no matter what state you (or the kitchen) is in, if the table looks lovely, you are golden. Actually, that was the first thing my mother-in-law said when she arrived. "Oh, the table looks lovely. Very elegant." I was just fresh out of the shower, there were prep dishes all over the kitchen, but all she commented on was the lovely table setting. :o)
One more thing I need to post a picture of. The A-man's new smile...
The boy is going to be a heartbreaker...
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Today - we paint!
Heading off to the hardware store - the boys bathroom is finally going to be painted. I have picked an almost robin's egg blue. The boys are going to be helping with this.
Love being home, and it is so nice to get to just move at an easy pace, but now it is time to get moving a wee bit...
Progess update on the bathroom to be provided tomorrow...
Love being home, and it is so nice to get to just move at an easy pace, but now it is time to get moving a wee bit...
Progess update on the bathroom to be provided tomorrow...
Friday, March 21, 2008
Good Friday
It felt SO good to sleep in today. I woke up just after 9, but laid in bed until 9:30 simply because I could. :o)
The sun is shining, the snow SHOULD be melting... and I get to spend three whole days with "da boys!" I am really looking forward to it.
Hubby wants to tackle the painting of the boy's bathroom this weekend. I agree that is does need to get done. I think I will put paint brushes in the kid's hands tomorrow. It's their bathroom, they should help. It's only paint - I'm sure I can 'fix' any boo-boo's!
I let the A-man stay home from school yesterday since we got home from the hospital so late. Turns out he had an English test I didn't know about. The teacher called home and talked to Hubby. She said that she believed he had studied, and she believed he had his work complete, but he has never missed school before, so she wanted to make sure all was fine. When hubby explained why A-man stayed home, she understood. Now, the A-man will have to write 2 tests on Tuesday, though... He said he is ready for it.
The sun is shining, the snow SHOULD be melting... and I get to spend three whole days with "da boys!" I am really looking forward to it.
Hubby wants to tackle the painting of the boy's bathroom this weekend. I agree that is does need to get done. I think I will put paint brushes in the kid's hands tomorrow. It's their bathroom, they should help. It's only paint - I'm sure I can 'fix' any boo-boo's!
I let the A-man stay home from school yesterday since we got home from the hospital so late. Turns out he had an English test I didn't know about. The teacher called home and talked to Hubby. She said that she believed he had studied, and she believed he had his work complete, but he has never missed school before, so she wanted to make sure all was fine. When hubby explained why A-man stayed home, she understood. Now, the A-man will have to write 2 tests on Tuesday, though... He said he is ready for it.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Easter is upon us...almost
Today is the first day of Spring! And I had to clean off the snow from my car this morning... :o(
(New ATV has taken my place in the garage...)
Either way, Spring is here, and although we still have snow, it will be starting to melt faster as the days go by.
When I got home last night, I noticed that the A-man had blood on his sock. His toe is getting worse. Hubby and I had a meeting with someone, so after he left, I took the A-man to go to the walk-in clinic. It was closed, so we went to the hopital. 3 hours we waited! The doctor gave him antibiotics, and said that our family doctor will have to do a procedure to cut off a portion of the nail. We have an appointment next week - Thursday - so I am hoping the infection will be cleared up by then, and he will be able to have this problem dealt with. I am also hoping he has learned his lesson about personal hygine.
The A-man and S had finished all of their household chores by the time I got home from work - which was very nice to see. They wanted to go on the ATV, so I guess that was reason enough to 'git r done'. After dinner, the A-man went right to work on what he needed to do for English class. S didn't have any homework.
(New ATV has taken my place in the garage...)
Either way, Spring is here, and although we still have snow, it will be starting to melt faster as the days go by.
When I got home last night, I noticed that the A-man had blood on his sock. His toe is getting worse. Hubby and I had a meeting with someone, so after he left, I took the A-man to go to the walk-in clinic. It was closed, so we went to the hopital. 3 hours we waited! The doctor gave him antibiotics, and said that our family doctor will have to do a procedure to cut off a portion of the nail. We have an appointment next week - Thursday - so I am hoping the infection will be cleared up by then, and he will be able to have this problem dealt with. I am also hoping he has learned his lesson about personal hygine.
The A-man and S had finished all of their household chores by the time I got home from work - which was very nice to see. They wanted to go on the ATV, so I guess that was reason enough to 'git r done'. After dinner, the A-man went right to work on what he needed to do for English class. S didn't have any homework.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Starting to improve
The boys are starting to get back in to the school routine now. This morning was much easier for all of us. The homework was done when I arrived home last night, but the kitchen chores still needed to be completed.
They are improving.
They are improving.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Tired today
Was still a little slow moving this morning, but at least I was able to get up before either of the boys and get a quiet start to the day. The A-man was still a little slow on the draw this morning, but he did manage to get outside before the bus arrived.
S had a chiropractor appointment this morning. Chiro is going to adjust just the C1 and C2 area of S's spine. He has had a lot of success in working with a girl with autisim, and since aspergers is in the same spectrum, I want to try this for a while to see if any type of pattern develops. Had my adjustment, too, then took S to school.
Got to work, but just started to feel grumpy. I picked the A-man up from school shortly after 1 and took him to get his braces off. He looks so different with the metal gone, I must say! Now we won't have any excuses about getting these teeth clean - there is nothing in the way anymore! The hygenist showed us the before pictures, and the mold that was made prior to the braces - what a difference.
I dropped the A-man back at school just in time to catch his bus home, but I had to go back to work, and then I had a massage for 5:30, so it just didn't make sense to have him in tow. Now, when I finally did get home around 7:15, both boys were working on homework. The dishwasher was not empty, the kitchen was not straightened, but at least they were doing homework. They did the kitchen when I told them I couldn't make dinner until they did so, but still, we didn't sit down to eat until almost 8pm. I hate eating that late.
I'm working on updating the ADHD database - the job is taking a bit longer than I thought because the computer and/or website keeps freezing on me! But, I am getting there...
S had a chiropractor appointment this morning. Chiro is going to adjust just the C1 and C2 area of S's spine. He has had a lot of success in working with a girl with autisim, and since aspergers is in the same spectrum, I want to try this for a while to see if any type of pattern develops. Had my adjustment, too, then took S to school.
Got to work, but just started to feel grumpy. I picked the A-man up from school shortly after 1 and took him to get his braces off. He looks so different with the metal gone, I must say! Now we won't have any excuses about getting these teeth clean - there is nothing in the way anymore! The hygenist showed us the before pictures, and the mold that was made prior to the braces - what a difference.
I dropped the A-man back at school just in time to catch his bus home, but I had to go back to work, and then I had a massage for 5:30, so it just didn't make sense to have him in tow. Now, when I finally did get home around 7:15, both boys were working on homework. The dishwasher was not empty, the kitchen was not straightened, but at least they were doing homework. They did the kitchen when I told them I couldn't make dinner until they did so, but still, we didn't sit down to eat until almost 8pm. I hate eating that late.
I'm working on updating the ADHD database - the job is taking a bit longer than I thought because the computer and/or website keeps freezing on me! But, I am getting there...
Monday, March 17, 2008
Virtual Clock
Cuz sent me a very interesting link - it's a world clock, based on world stats. Tells you how the population is increasing, that sort of thing.
The interesting thing about this site is, you can determine your 'virtual age' based on your life-style, habits, etc. According to this, and I did answer truthfully, my virtual age is 28.1, and my life expectancy is 85.9! Not too bad for someone that will be turning the big 4-0 in September!!
Anyway, if you are interested in this, the here is the site...
Life Expectancy Calculator
~~~~~
Hubby and I had a good session with the nutritionist. We were there for almost a full three hours - far more than I expected.
Based on her findings, Hubby needs to cut out all starches for a while. Not forever - she kept stressing that - but just until his body gets back to where it should be.
She did some interesting testing that I will describe in more depth on my 'weight loss' blog.
With me, she seemed surprised to find that I didn't suffer from any food issues. My body stayed strong with all of the foods she tested me with. The problems started to arise when she started to test my body strength with amino acids. That is when the deficiencies started to appear. It was quite interesting, to say the least.
Hubby and I came home with our pages of things to follow for the next little three weeks, and then we will see how things are progressing for us.
When we got home, both boys were wanting to go on the ATV. Umm....no. It was late, we were hungry, and it was way too dark to even consider it. The A-man had completed his chores, but S had conveniently 'forgot' about his. Same with the homework. Maybe some day he will realize these are like brushing your teeth - it's just something you do. Oh, right, he often forgets that, too...
The A-man is getting his braces off tomorrow, and none of "the ladies" kissed S today, even though his medallion said to do so. (He seemed okay with that.)
My meeting at the school to add the aspergers to the IPRC was delayed, as the proper people at the board hadn't had a chance to review the report. Just goes to show you that the entire process is a mere formality - the school has already been 'told' what will be allowed, or not. This morning I just did not care to fight that too hard. It was nice that I got to sleep that extra couple of hours...
The interesting thing about this site is, you can determine your 'virtual age' based on your life-style, habits, etc. According to this, and I did answer truthfully, my virtual age is 28.1, and my life expectancy is 85.9! Not too bad for someone that will be turning the big 4-0 in September!!
Anyway, if you are interested in this, the here is the site...
Life Expectancy Calculator
~~~~~
Hubby and I had a good session with the nutritionist. We were there for almost a full three hours - far more than I expected.
Based on her findings, Hubby needs to cut out all starches for a while. Not forever - she kept stressing that - but just until his body gets back to where it should be.
She did some interesting testing that I will describe in more depth on my 'weight loss' blog.
With me, she seemed surprised to find that I didn't suffer from any food issues. My body stayed strong with all of the foods she tested me with. The problems started to arise when she started to test my body strength with amino acids. That is when the deficiencies started to appear. It was quite interesting, to say the least.
Hubby and I came home with our pages of things to follow for the next little three weeks, and then we will see how things are progressing for us.
When we got home, both boys were wanting to go on the ATV. Umm....no. It was late, we were hungry, and it was way too dark to even consider it. The A-man had completed his chores, but S had conveniently 'forgot' about his. Same with the homework. Maybe some day he will realize these are like brushing your teeth - it's just something you do. Oh, right, he often forgets that, too...
The A-man is getting his braces off tomorrow, and none of "the ladies" kissed S today, even though his medallion said to do so. (He seemed okay with that.)
My meeting at the school to add the aspergers to the IPRC was delayed, as the proper people at the board hadn't had a chance to review the report. Just goes to show you that the entire process is a mere formality - the school has already been 'told' what will be allowed, or not. This morning I just did not care to fight that too hard. It was nice that I got to sleep that extra couple of hours...
Getting by without me...
I have decided that Hubby is trying to make the boys WANT me to go away more often! ;o)
Hubby started the initial 'trail' in the backyard, and then the boys were allowed to have their time on the track... apparently they like this machine...
When I was away two weeks ago, Hubby took the boys ice-fishing on the Saturday. They had the very best time ever - S caught the most fish in the derby, and the A-man won $65 for catching the longest (or biggest, maybe?) fish. They had never been ice fishing before, and they had a blast. (I used to ice fish with my Dad when I was that age, too - it's a fun day...)
So, I was happy that Hubby had a successful weekend with the boys two weeks ago, but THIS weekend takes the cake for sure. Oh, they had a good weekend alright! Hubby even sent me pictures on Saturday night to show me what was making the boys smile...
Hubby started the initial 'trail' in the backyard, and then the boys were allowed to have their time on the track... apparently they like this machine... On Sunday, Hubby's friend came over with his machine, so both boys got to drive at the same time. (sigh - my babies are growing up...) Hubby and his friend made a few more 'trails' around the backyard, and now my back yard is just a series of ATV marks.
When S woke up this morning, and saw me there waking him, he had the BIGGEST smile on his face, and he hugged me for about 5 straight minutes. Then he started talking about the ATV, asking if I had seen it (yes), been on it (no) and did I see what they did on the weekend. I asked him to show me, and he was so excited to tell me all about the creating of the various 'trails' - but then he grew very serious and told me that they can't ride on that one - he pointed - because they think it goes over the horseshoe pit!!
That is the problem with riding in the snow - ya can't see what is underneath. My poor lawn...
This morning was a little rough for me - I had a very hard time getting out of bed. The A-man was asked to make sure he had all of his uniform stuff upstairs and ready for the morning, but apparently his idea of being organized and mine are little different.
About 3 minutes before the bus arrived, the A-man comes charging out of his room in just his underwear - looking for pants. He made the bus, but she had to wait for quite a long time. He ran outside holding his jacket, and I have no idea if he took his meds this morning or not. Guess we will have to review the tips and tricks of being organized in the morning.
We had bought a number of things for the boys to wear today - St. Patrick's Day!! - but I don't think the A-man took any of them to school this morning.
S came out of his room with his "Ireland" t-shirt his Gramma had brought him, and he was wearing a green necklace with a medallion that says "Kiss me, I'm Irish." He told me he couldn't wait for "the ladies" to see that, "cuz they will all be kissing me all day!" (I didn't have the heart to tell him I didn't think that would happen...) Anyway, he was pretty excited about the whole idea of St. Patrick's Day.
Hubby and I have an appointment with a nutritionist this evening. We actually both have REALLY busy week nights this week. Good thing we are in for a long weekend - I think we are going to need it!
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Another city, another hotel
This time - Montreal. I have never been to downtown Montreal before. Although I don't speak the language - at least, not French as it should be - I know we will do just fine. Sister-in-law is in tow, so she will help us out with any language issues. Still waiting for her to arrive, though. Her train was delayed - I'm still trying to figure out how trains get delayed...
The show begins tomorrow at noon, but I am sure Boss will want us all there for 9am for the final prize set-ups, etc., and to train the staff that are new to the whole event - such as sister-in-law. When she (finally) arrives, I will be heading off with her and co-worker and client to have some dinner. Apparently there isn't a bad restaurant in Montreal.
The boys both got up to see me off this morning. Once they realized I would be home in time to get them off to school, they didn't seem to upset about my leaving again. I went to the office until 2, and then it was pretty smooth from then on. Co-worker and I arrived at airport with no problems, had a drink and a sandwich and got on the plane. I was just getting in to the proposal I was working on, and was told it was time to pack it in, because we are landing. Toronto to Montreal in less than an hour - technology at it's best!
The show begins tomorrow at noon, but I am sure Boss will want us all there for 9am for the final prize set-ups, etc., and to train the staff that are new to the whole event - such as sister-in-law. When she (finally) arrives, I will be heading off with her and co-worker and client to have some dinner. Apparently there isn't a bad restaurant in Montreal.
The boys both got up to see me off this morning. Once they realized I would be home in time to get them off to school, they didn't seem to upset about my leaving again. I went to the office until 2, and then it was pretty smooth from then on. Co-worker and I arrived at airport with no problems, had a drink and a sandwich and got on the plane. I was just getting in to the proposal I was working on, and was told it was time to pack it in, because we are landing. Toronto to Montreal in less than an hour - technology at it's best!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
I must explain yesterday's blog - I was not having the best of days at work.
I just don't understand how someone can be SO obtuse about so many subjects, and just not get it. Then, when you explain in further detail, said person then acts like you are the idiot - almost like he was testing to see if you knew what you were talking about. It's not been much better this morning, I'm afraid. For now that is all I am going to say.
I left work at 3 yesterday. The A-man had a final check at the orthodontist, and the braces come off next week. He is very happy about that, I will admit. After the appointment, the boys and I went on a 'date.' We went and picked up some fun "St. Patrick's Day" stuff - me for the weekend in Montreal, them for Monday at school. The luck of the Irish will be surrounding us.
After our shopping trip, we did a few more errands, then we went to a movie - we saw "The Jumper." Not a bad movie - more of a prequel for the next one, if you know what I mean. The computer graphics and special effects were incredible, but when it was finished, you just knew that another one was going to be coming out.
When the movie was finished, we had just enough time for me to head over for my 'website training' for the ADHD board. The boys came with me - obviously - and they were happy to see the gaming systems at the house we were having the meeting at. They played like "RockStars" and watched a movie. The snow was falling as we left, but closer to home there was nothing, thank heavens.
When we got home, all hell broke loose. The A-man had purchased a new video game for his Wii while we were doing our errands. He got frustrated when he was trying to load up the game, and then S and I were the targets for his RAGE episode. I did not manage things as well as I could have, I suppose, but this does happen when trying to do too many things at once. Lesson learned for Mom.
Over the past few days, I have noticed that the A-man does not cope well with unstructured time. He was commenting Saturday that he was 'bored.' This does not bode well when just starting a week's break...
He acted a total goon on Monday, to the point that my mom even commented on it when we went for a visit. He was much better yesterday, but last night, not so much.
After quite a bit of down time in his room, he was able to think more rationally. I could tell he was very remorseful over his earlier actions, which then lead me to (again) trying to explain to him that he needs to take time away from the frustrations rather than trying to 'improve' things - which then ALWAYS makes it worse.
I don't know if he will ever fully understand that things can never be 'better' while in the heat of the moment, but my hope is that if I continue to explain this, maybe - eventually - it will sink in. The A-man has grown and matured so much - he just needs to realize that he isn't quite there just yet. (Being 6 feet tall does not make you 'fully grown' in that sense.)
Poor S was just trying to stay out of the A-man's way while this episode was going on, but no matter what he did, he just seemed to be a target. Pet the cat, the A-man screams at him...try to make a joke, get yelled at. Yeah, it just was not a very good end to an otherwise fun afternoon.
Poor R-man was in his room, with the door closed, I'm sure wondering what was happening, and why. This is when I become so embarrased about the rage episodes. In my head I know that *I* have nothing to be embarrased about, but I still suffer from that - and guilt. The A-man is totally irrational during the event, then SO upset after he has calmed. 98% of the time he is a delight - the other 2%... not so much.
I am sad today. Just.... sad.
I just don't understand how someone can be SO obtuse about so many subjects, and just not get it. Then, when you explain in further detail, said person then acts like you are the idiot - almost like he was testing to see if you knew what you were talking about. It's not been much better this morning, I'm afraid. For now that is all I am going to say.
I left work at 3 yesterday. The A-man had a final check at the orthodontist, and the braces come off next week. He is very happy about that, I will admit. After the appointment, the boys and I went on a 'date.' We went and picked up some fun "St. Patrick's Day" stuff - me for the weekend in Montreal, them for Monday at school. The luck of the Irish will be surrounding us.
After our shopping trip, we did a few more errands, then we went to a movie - we saw "The Jumper." Not a bad movie - more of a prequel for the next one, if you know what I mean. The computer graphics and special effects were incredible, but when it was finished, you just knew that another one was going to be coming out.
When the movie was finished, we had just enough time for me to head over for my 'website training' for the ADHD board. The boys came with me - obviously - and they were happy to see the gaming systems at the house we were having the meeting at. They played like "RockStars" and watched a movie. The snow was falling as we left, but closer to home there was nothing, thank heavens.
When we got home, all hell broke loose. The A-man had purchased a new video game for his Wii while we were doing our errands. He got frustrated when he was trying to load up the game, and then S and I were the targets for his RAGE episode. I did not manage things as well as I could have, I suppose, but this does happen when trying to do too many things at once. Lesson learned for Mom.
Over the past few days, I have noticed that the A-man does not cope well with unstructured time. He was commenting Saturday that he was 'bored.' This does not bode well when just starting a week's break...
He acted a total goon on Monday, to the point that my mom even commented on it when we went for a visit. He was much better yesterday, but last night, not so much.
After quite a bit of down time in his room, he was able to think more rationally. I could tell he was very remorseful over his earlier actions, which then lead me to (again) trying to explain to him that he needs to take time away from the frustrations rather than trying to 'improve' things - which then ALWAYS makes it worse.
I don't know if he will ever fully understand that things can never be 'better' while in the heat of the moment, but my hope is that if I continue to explain this, maybe - eventually - it will sink in. The A-man has grown and matured so much - he just needs to realize that he isn't quite there just yet. (Being 6 feet tall does not make you 'fully grown' in that sense.)
Poor S was just trying to stay out of the A-man's way while this episode was going on, but no matter what he did, he just seemed to be a target. Pet the cat, the A-man screams at him...try to make a joke, get yelled at. Yeah, it just was not a very good end to an otherwise fun afternoon.
Poor R-man was in his room, with the door closed, I'm sure wondering what was happening, and why. This is when I become so embarrased about the rage episodes. In my head I know that *I* have nothing to be embarrased about, but I still suffer from that - and guilt. The A-man is totally irrational during the event, then SO upset after he has calmed. 98% of the time he is a delight - the other 2%... not so much.
I am sad today. Just.... sad.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Frustration
Sometimes, don't you just want to smack someone?
What's the old saying... "some people bring happiness where ever they go, others bring it whenever they go..."
Yeah, today is one of THOSE days.
What's the old saying... "some people bring happiness where ever they go, others bring it whenever they go..."
Yeah, today is one of THOSE days.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Situation comedy
A small job to be completed by Hubby on Saturday turned in to a full-blown event that could have been the premise of a half hour sit-com!
Our kitchen faucet has been giving us grief for a while. Not 'leaking' in the traditional sense, but if you were putting water in to the left sink, it would come out the faucet as it should, but also shoot out the back too - all over the counter. We have endured this for a while, simply because Hubby had repaired it (a number of times) and so we just figured we would replace the faucet - eventually. I wanted to make sure it was NOT going to happen again, so I was determined to find one that I felt was 'good quality.'
Friday afternoon, I get the phone call that our faucet is in. I get the faucet, and Hubby figures that he will replace it on Saturday afternoon while I am out with Jazzy's mom for her birthday surprises. While I am out, I get a text from Honey asking me to pick up some Teflon tape. As I am approaching the hardware store, Honey phones, and tells me to look at sinks, too. Uh oh. Apparently the old faucet is so rusted on to the existing sink, and he has fought with it for about two hours now, so Hubby figures it will be just easier to replace the sink.
While I am at the store, I mention to Jazzy's mom that I have wanted to replace my typical double sinks with a one-and-a half plus sink since my Mom had her kitchen make-over. I find the 'new' sink, call hubby for the necessary dimensions, etc. Dimensionally, this new sink is going to work. So I bring it - and the teflon tape - home. Yippee, I'm getting my new faucet installed, and getting a new sink in the process!
Summary:
The A-man was 'bored' for most of the weekend. I am not sure how this will bode for the remainder of the week off. I am willing to bet he will continue to torment and tease his brother... should be fun.
Found out on Friday that I have to go to Montreal for the show there - it is this coming weekend. Told Boss that I would go, but that I would not drive it. Way too long a drive for a weekend. He was fine with that, so I am flying out late Thursday afternoon, and will be home for bedtime Sunday night. Commuter planes...what a great creation...
Our kitchen faucet has been giving us grief for a while. Not 'leaking' in the traditional sense, but if you were putting water in to the left sink, it would come out the faucet as it should, but also shoot out the back too - all over the counter. We have endured this for a while, simply because Hubby had repaired it (a number of times) and so we just figured we would replace the faucet - eventually. I wanted to make sure it was NOT going to happen again, so I was determined to find one that I felt was 'good quality.'
Friday afternoon, I get the phone call that our faucet is in. I get the faucet, and Hubby figures that he will replace it on Saturday afternoon while I am out with Jazzy's mom for her birthday surprises. While I am out, I get a text from Honey asking me to pick up some Teflon tape. As I am approaching the hardware store, Honey phones, and tells me to look at sinks, too. Uh oh. Apparently the old faucet is so rusted on to the existing sink, and he has fought with it for about two hours now, so Hubby figures it will be just easier to replace the sink.
While I am at the store, I mention to Jazzy's mom that I have wanted to replace my typical double sinks with a one-and-a half plus sink since my Mom had her kitchen make-over. I find the 'new' sink, call hubby for the necessary dimensions, etc. Dimensionally, this new sink is going to work. So I bring it - and the teflon tape - home. Yippee, I'm getting my new faucet installed, and getting a new sink in the process!
Summary:
- dimensions might be same, doesn't mean hole is...
- the lock-on bolts have to go on sink BEFORE sink's final placement...
- plummer's putty is s-l-o-w moving...
- turn hot water off BEFORE playing with dishwasher connector hose...
- new sinks don't necessarily have drain holes in same areas...
- cooking meals for two days without running water in the kitchen - do not advise this...
- Finally able to clean up kitchen at 9pm on Sunday night - PRICELESS
The A-man was 'bored' for most of the weekend. I am not sure how this will bode for the remainder of the week off. I am willing to bet he will continue to torment and tease his brother... should be fun.
Found out on Friday that I have to go to Montreal for the show there - it is this coming weekend. Told Boss that I would go, but that I would not drive it. Way too long a drive for a weekend. He was fine with that, so I am flying out late Thursday afternoon, and will be home for bedtime Sunday night. Commuter planes...what a great creation...
Friday, March 7, 2008
Coping?
Here is a copy of a letter I wrote to my darling Bear today - I think it summarizes how I am feeling right now:
"Got your message today. Thanks.
I'm really not upset about him having Aspergers, I'm really not. I guess it just TICKS ME OFF that I have two wonderful children - beautiful boys, really - that have to go through all of the FREAKING learning issues. They are both so bright - hell, the A-man is 5 IQ points off of being classed as 'gifted' - and they just have to struggle all of the time, to do just the simplest of daily things.
Do you know S can't tie his shoes? Now we know why - right side of brain affects fine motor skills.
For years I have struggled with them being suspended from school, from the bus, causing problems here, there and everywhere. Skating coaches created routines that work around my boys' non-compliance. Total strangers making the "God, I wouldn't want to be THAT kid's mother" while they are pointing at one of my children. You know how many times I have had to call you to see if you could keep S while I went to work, and for 4 years prior to that, I was HOME and able to keep them with me.
So, we find out S has ADHD and multiple learning disorders. I learn about them. Then we discover he has a Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Back to the books. He is so stressed out at school, he tries to jump in front of a bus. I cope - voice my displeasure with the Principal's attitude, get counselling for him, enrol him in Play Therapy, fend off CAS, yadda, yadda, yadda.
Two days after the bus incident, our family doctor tells me he thinks the A-man has Tourette's. Fine. We see the paediatrician, and move onward to Toronto. Yup, Tourette's, ADHD and Rage. Okay, ADHD I know - the rest, I learn. The A-man, for the most part, becomes an entirely different, more responsible child. In Grade 8, his teacher even comments that she would take a classroom full of the A-man's, as he is such a delight! I almost started to cry - since I was at the school dealing with, yet another, S incident.
Following school year, more issues for S. I address as I need to - involve a lawyer, the school superintendent, the trustee. Principal is suspended, more resources are put in place for S - specialized bussing, a full time EA. Computer is suddenly allowed home for homework, and now more programs have been added - and he has been TRAINED!! (crazy concept, really - giving a child a laptop and also teaching him how to use the software...)
So, finally, after years and years of struggling, we are starting to see an improvement. Sure, there are still struggles on occasion, but they are farther and farther between, and less severe than in the past. His report card still say he needs to improve his "cooperation with others", and his "conflict resolution"... we read that each time and think "Yeah, whatever." For the past number of years, the problems have ONLY been at school - the home issues were resolved through the various tips/techniques/training we did through private assistance. Respite weekends were a God-send, I will admit.
And now we can add Aspergers and Non-verbal learning disability to the gammet. Will it end?
I think that is where I am right now - will I ever STOP hearing another 'diagnosis' for either of my sons? I have never been one to hold on to 'labels' of disorders - you know that. Hell, I could have a flipping rheumatology book named after me!, yet I never dwell. Never have, never will. But I feel - so very strongly - that I must educate myself on anything and everything that affects my sons. So, back to the books.
I am tired."
"Got your message today. Thanks.
I'm really not upset about him having Aspergers, I'm really not. I guess it just TICKS ME OFF that I have two wonderful children - beautiful boys, really - that have to go through all of the FREAKING learning issues. They are both so bright - hell, the A-man is 5 IQ points off of being classed as 'gifted' - and they just have to struggle all of the time, to do just the simplest of daily things.
Do you know S can't tie his shoes? Now we know why - right side of brain affects fine motor skills.
For years I have struggled with them being suspended from school, from the bus, causing problems here, there and everywhere. Skating coaches created routines that work around my boys' non-compliance. Total strangers making the "God, I wouldn't want to be THAT kid's mother" while they are pointing at one of my children. You know how many times I have had to call you to see if you could keep S while I went to work, and for 4 years prior to that, I was HOME and able to keep them with me.
So, we find out S has ADHD and multiple learning disorders. I learn about them. Then we discover he has a Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Back to the books. He is so stressed out at school, he tries to jump in front of a bus. I cope - voice my displeasure with the Principal's attitude, get counselling for him, enrol him in Play Therapy, fend off CAS, yadda, yadda, yadda.
Two days after the bus incident, our family doctor tells me he thinks the A-man has Tourette's. Fine. We see the paediatrician, and move onward to Toronto. Yup, Tourette's, ADHD and Rage. Okay, ADHD I know - the rest, I learn. The A-man, for the most part, becomes an entirely different, more responsible child. In Grade 8, his teacher even comments that she would take a classroom full of the A-man's, as he is such a delight! I almost started to cry - since I was at the school dealing with, yet another, S incident.
Following school year, more issues for S. I address as I need to - involve a lawyer, the school superintendent, the trustee. Principal is suspended, more resources are put in place for S - specialized bussing, a full time EA. Computer is suddenly allowed home for homework, and now more programs have been added - and he has been TRAINED!! (crazy concept, really - giving a child a laptop and also teaching him how to use the software...)
So, finally, after years and years of struggling, we are starting to see an improvement. Sure, there are still struggles on occasion, but they are farther and farther between, and less severe than in the past. His report card still say he needs to improve his "cooperation with others", and his "conflict resolution"... we read that each time and think "Yeah, whatever." For the past number of years, the problems have ONLY been at school - the home issues were resolved through the various tips/techniques/training we did through private assistance. Respite weekends were a God-send, I will admit.
And now we can add Aspergers and Non-verbal learning disability to the gammet. Will it end?
I think that is where I am right now - will I ever STOP hearing another 'diagnosis' for either of my sons? I have never been one to hold on to 'labels' of disorders - you know that. Hell, I could have a flipping rheumatology book named after me!, yet I never dwell. Never have, never will. But I feel - so very strongly - that I must educate myself on anything and everything that affects my sons. So, back to the books.
I am tired."
Bitter
Not going to blog much today.
Kids are off for March Break - I am bitter.
I can't take time off to do stuff with them - I am bitter.
Lots of snow melted, then came back - I am bitter.
Forecast calls for more snow - I am bitter.
May not get to see Cuz this weekend - I am bitter.
Want to garden, and play in dirt. Stupid snow. Stupid winter.
Bitter.
Kids are off for March Break - I am bitter.
I can't take time off to do stuff with them - I am bitter.
Lots of snow melted, then came back - I am bitter.
Forecast calls for more snow - I am bitter.
May not get to see Cuz this weekend - I am bitter.
Want to garden, and play in dirt. Stupid snow. Stupid winter.
Bitter.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Report cards are in
Cuz - just read your comment on the last post. You ask a very good question - one that I will have to ask the doctor myself, actually. Will keep you posted.
Nothing to report on the homework front - two snow days this week, and the final day before March Break - there will be little to no work done in the schools today.
I am very upset about the snow day yesterday because S was supposed to receive another two and a half hours training on the laptop, and I have no idea when (or if) they will reschedule that. When I took the results of the fMRI in to the school, the SERT gave me all of the training dates for the remainder of the year, and I am hoping I will be able to make a couple of them.
My time at the school on Tuesday was pretty effective, I will admit. I received a new copy of S's IEP for term three, we established a date for an IPRC review meeting - based on the newest findings - and I was told all the training dates. The IEP...well, let's just say I am glad that it is a 'working document' because I don't think this one is a clear nor concise as last term's was. It's is still are far cry better than the first one I ever received, but there are some older things being carried forward that really are not applicable anymore. March break homework for me, I suppose.
S got his report card the other day. His marks are pretty good actually.
Trust me - there are days that I really wish I could tell some of these teachers what I really think, and feel, about these bogus marks, comments and report cards...
Nothing to report on the homework front - two snow days this week, and the final day before March Break - there will be little to no work done in the schools today.
I am very upset about the snow day yesterday because S was supposed to receive another two and a half hours training on the laptop, and I have no idea when (or if) they will reschedule that. When I took the results of the fMRI in to the school, the SERT gave me all of the training dates for the remainder of the year, and I am hoping I will be able to make a couple of them.
My time at the school on Tuesday was pretty effective, I will admit. I received a new copy of S's IEP for term three, we established a date for an IPRC review meeting - based on the newest findings - and I was told all the training dates. The IEP...well, let's just say I am glad that it is a 'working document' because I don't think this one is a clear nor concise as last term's was. It's is still are far cry better than the first one I ever received, but there are some older things being carried forward that really are not applicable anymore. March break homework for me, I suppose.
S got his report card the other day. His marks are pretty good actually.
- English - Reading 74%, Writing 74%, Oral 77%
- French - all components 60%
- Math - varies from 65% in measurement to 70% in Algebra, and 75% in the two math components
- Science - 70%
- Geography - 65%
- History - 75%
- Phys-ed - 75%
Trust me - there are days that I really wish I could tell some of these teachers what I really think, and feel, about these bogus marks, comments and report cards...
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Clinical Interpretation
This is what the testings findings said:
"S showed left hemispheric dominance for the receptive and expressive language functions, but no activation of the mesial temporal lobes during novelty scene encoding task. Please note that he had a very good pretesting abiltity to do all the tests outside the scanner. However, all the fMRI studies for language and memory testing yielded low activation levels. Post-scanning recall of the scene encoding paradigm shows about 20% lower recall ability compared to our healthy controls. Clinical correlation is required with respect to the significance of these findings among patients with Asperger's syndrome."
The doctor wrote some things on the sheet, but I can't make them out. I know there was something about the hippocampus...will have to confirm that too!
Are we having fun yet?
"S showed left hemispheric dominance for the receptive and expressive language functions, but no activation of the mesial temporal lobes during novelty scene encoding task. Please note that he had a very good pretesting abiltity to do all the tests outside the scanner. However, all the fMRI studies for language and memory testing yielded low activation levels. Post-scanning recall of the scene encoding paradigm shows about 20% lower recall ability compared to our healthy controls. Clinical correlation is required with respect to the significance of these findings among patients with Asperger's syndrome."
The doctor wrote some things on the sheet, but I can't make them out. I know there was something about the hippocampus...will have to confirm that too!
Are we having fun yet?
Still shaking my head...
You know, I am not surprised one iota about the 'clinical diagnosis' given to me yesterday. In my heart of hearts, I knew he was going to tell me S had Aspergers. I think I am just so frustrated with feeling the need to learn all I can, now.
I realize no one is making me do this, but my sense of 'right' tells me that it just makes sense to learn about your children in any/all ways available. I had done some research about Aspergers a while ago, and when I did, it just 'fit' with S, but now that I know this for sure...well, I just don't know what I am feeling.
When we were at the doctor's yesterday, we ran out of time before we could start to discuss the actual therapies he would want to consider for S. The information was relatively new to the doctor, also, and he really hadn't had a lot of time to absorb it all, and plan for the next step. We will continue to touch base electronically, and start to devise a "plan of attack" that way.
I had a chiropractor appointment yesterday afternoon on my way home from work, and the doctor and I discussed the results of S's testing in depth. He has suggested that we consider some C1 and C2 specific adjustments for S. C1 and C2 are top two areas of the spine - right below the plate the brain actually sits on. He has worked with a severely autistic girl for 7 years, and he said that he and the girl's mother have been able to establish a pattern for this girl, and he feels that often times, if he notices a variation in her C2 area, and he is able to adjust the C2 on a regular basis, if she still has a seizure, it is much milder than what she has experienced in the past.
Now, he did tell me that this type of 'therapy' will take time to actually find a pattern, and he told me that he wanted some time to read some information about what I told him, and he also wants to prepare a chart of sorts to see if a pattern can/will eventually start to show for S. For example, C1 was shifted to the left, S exhibited this...and see if his body always shifts in one way (or another) before, during, or after any particular events/stessors, that sort of thing. I have gone to this chiro for a number of years, and I often take the boys in, too, but the type of adjusting he is talking about will be specific to the top of the spine only. He will only adjust there. I am going to start setting appointments for S. I'm sure the specialist would tell me that this will not be of any benefit, but then again, he did tell us to start giving S omega 3 capsules, so who knows?
Got a letter in the mail the other day from the A-man's specialist at the Tourette clinic. She is going to be taking 6 months to a year off due to an adoption that is being complete, so the A-man will be monitored by the referring paediatrician for the next little while. Less of a drive for us, but less 'specific' a specialist, too. Now that we know what is happening with him, though, I don't know that seeing a specialist really makes that much of a difference - he has tourettes, it is somewhat mild, and we cope. He is doing SO much better, so I guess seeing the referring doctor won't really make that much of a difference.
Just got a call from Boss a few minutes ago - he advised that I just stay put today, given the weather conditions. I am okay with that. Not feeling 100% anyway, so I think I will just head back to bed. Boys are on ANOTHER snow day, so it will be another jammie day for the three of us!
Oh, and another piece of news that isn't specific to either of the kids! Hubby got a call at work yesterday - our bid for a new ATV has finally come through, so we will be getting one in time for Spring. The boys were over the moon excited about that. The A-man's main question - what colour is it? Answer is 'camo'... (sigh... I was hoping for pink - guess that isn'tgoing to happen when you are the only girl in the family...) Oh well, maybe I will get a pink helmet!!
I realize no one is making me do this, but my sense of 'right' tells me that it just makes sense to learn about your children in any/all ways available. I had done some research about Aspergers a while ago, and when I did, it just 'fit' with S, but now that I know this for sure...well, I just don't know what I am feeling.
When we were at the doctor's yesterday, we ran out of time before we could start to discuss the actual therapies he would want to consider for S. The information was relatively new to the doctor, also, and he really hadn't had a lot of time to absorb it all, and plan for the next step. We will continue to touch base electronically, and start to devise a "plan of attack" that way.
I had a chiropractor appointment yesterday afternoon on my way home from work, and the doctor and I discussed the results of S's testing in depth. He has suggested that we consider some C1 and C2 specific adjustments for S. C1 and C2 are top two areas of the spine - right below the plate the brain actually sits on. He has worked with a severely autistic girl for 7 years, and he said that he and the girl's mother have been able to establish a pattern for this girl, and he feels that often times, if he notices a variation in her C2 area, and he is able to adjust the C2 on a regular basis, if she still has a seizure, it is much milder than what she has experienced in the past.
Now, he did tell me that this type of 'therapy' will take time to actually find a pattern, and he told me that he wanted some time to read some information about what I told him, and he also wants to prepare a chart of sorts to see if a pattern can/will eventually start to show for S. For example, C1 was shifted to the left, S exhibited this...and see if his body always shifts in one way (or another) before, during, or after any particular events/stessors, that sort of thing. I have gone to this chiro for a number of years, and I often take the boys in, too, but the type of adjusting he is talking about will be specific to the top of the spine only. He will only adjust there. I am going to start setting appointments for S. I'm sure the specialist would tell me that this will not be of any benefit, but then again, he did tell us to start giving S omega 3 capsules, so who knows?
Got a letter in the mail the other day from the A-man's specialist at the Tourette clinic. She is going to be taking 6 months to a year off due to an adoption that is being complete, so the A-man will be monitored by the referring paediatrician for the next little while. Less of a drive for us, but less 'specific' a specialist, too. Now that we know what is happening with him, though, I don't know that seeing a specialist really makes that much of a difference - he has tourettes, it is somewhat mild, and we cope. He is doing SO much better, so I guess seeing the referring doctor won't really make that much of a difference.
Just got a call from Boss a few minutes ago - he advised that I just stay put today, given the weather conditions. I am okay with that. Not feeling 100% anyway, so I think I will just head back to bed. Boys are on ANOTHER snow day, so it will be another jammie day for the three of us!
Oh, and another piece of news that isn't specific to either of the kids! Hubby got a call at work yesterday - our bid for a new ATV has finally come through, so we will be getting one in time for Spring. The boys were over the moon excited about that. The A-man's main question - what colour is it? Answer is 'camo'... (sigh... I was hoping for pink - guess that isn'tgoing to happen when you are the only girl in the family...) Oh well, maybe I will get a pink helmet!!
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Left Brain vs. Right Brain
The results of the fMRI are in. Based on the findings, S functions primarily with the left side of his brain. Very little, to almost none, of functioning is completed on the right side of his brain. New information - very little taken in. He showed zero response to novel concepts. Additionally, I was told that what is taken in, comes in slower than 'normal' and comprehension about 20% below the norm.
I am dazed and confused right now, I will be honest. Oh, and did I mention that, clinically, S has Asperger's AND a non-verbal learning disability. Yeah, he does. Am I surprised? Not really, but I guess part of me was holding out hope that we wouldn't be told this.
There were all kinds of medical lingo thrown around this morning, and my poor wee non-medical brain is having quite the time absorbing all of this. I've done some Internet searching - as I am prone to do - and have found a few websites that might be able to help me understand a bit further.
One website, called Wired, has a pretty good summary about the left and right functions of the brain. It told me,
I am dazed and confused right now, I will be honest. Oh, and did I mention that, clinically, S has Asperger's AND a non-verbal learning disability. Yeah, he does. Am I surprised? Not really, but I guess part of me was holding out hope that we wouldn't be told this.
There were all kinds of medical lingo thrown around this morning, and my poor wee non-medical brain is having quite the time absorbing all of this. I've done some Internet searching - as I am prone to do - and have found a few websites that might be able to help me understand a bit further.
One website, called Wired, has a pretty good summary about the left and right functions of the brain. It told me,
"The left hemisphere handles sequence, literalness, and analysis. The rightThis site also has a very interesting 'diagram' of the human brain and 'how' it functions:
hemisphere, meanwhile, takes care of context, emotional expression, and
synthesis."
Knowing S, when I saw this summary of which side of the brain controls certain things, it certainly explains some things:
Left brain functions
sequential
analytical
verbal
logical
linear algorithmic processing
mathematics: perception of counting/measurement
present and past
language: grammar/vocabulary, literal
Right brain functions
simultaneous
holistic
imagistic
intuitive
holistic algorithmic processing
mathematics: perception of shapes/motions
present and future
language: intonation/accentuation, prosody, pragmatic, contextual
S is very literal in all that he does. He is not able to conceptualize how his present actions will/can affect his future. He doesn't have a very good imagination - to come up with something new and unique is not his forte...
The main question now is - can it be 'fixed'? We ran out of time before the doctor was able to fully establish a therapy plan of attack, but this will be done with both him and I, via email for the next little bit. In the interm, I will continue to do research!
Results day
Today is the day we get the results of S's fMRI. I know we won't have any miraculous breakthroughs or anything like that, however, I am hoping we will be able to get a copy of the DVD to watch. Again, we won't really know what we are watching, but I still think it will be very fascinating!
I am also very interested to find out what types of therapies the doctor is going to recommend, and which - if any - mental health issues they should address. I'm sure it will be a very long, yet informative appointment.
Yesterday's "ice day" was pretty ironic - it was 8 (above freezing) for most of the day, and all of the snow/ice on the driveway melted, and a lot of the snow off the deck melted. Crazy to think they called the buses off the road for such a nice day! The R-man informed me this morning, though, that they are calling for a winter storm tonight. Nice. March - lion to lamb...I guess we have to see the lion part to appreciate the lamb, right?
Speaking of lamb, I am going to be heading down to Cuz's house this weekend to go to the Canada Bloom's Show. She doesn't live real close to where the show is held, but at least she is closer than I. Now, that said, I have made a big boo-boo, and done a wee bit of double-booking myself this weekend. But, I think a workable plan has been hatched, and we will STILL get to spend some quality time together - which we have not been able to do as much as we like to do normally.
Cuz, I won't be able to arrive until close to supper time on Saturday evening - Hubby is working Friday night, and I have an appointment/date with Jazzy's mom earlier on Saturday, so I thought I would be able to make it for drinks on Saturday, then we could head to the show on Sunday. Would that work?? I won't rush away after the show, but I think that is going to be the most workable option right now.
The A-man just read my last sentence over my shoulder and said, "Ugh...you are leaving again?? Every weekend you leave us...you hate us don't you?" He knows that is not true, but he sure does know how to pull on those heart strings...
Speaking of the A-man...toes are still looking icky, but I think we have been able to drain most of the infection. I am going to monitor things, and continue to pick at things, for a couple of days, and if I don't think I am going to be able to be successful with the hang nail, I will be making a doctor's appointment.
Hubby and I have made an appointment with a nutritionist for March 17. We have been planning on going to see her for quite a while, but the past few months have been just far to chaotic to even consider doing major dietary changes, too. It is time.
I am also very interested to find out what types of therapies the doctor is going to recommend, and which - if any - mental health issues they should address. I'm sure it will be a very long, yet informative appointment.
Yesterday's "ice day" was pretty ironic - it was 8 (above freezing) for most of the day, and all of the snow/ice on the driveway melted, and a lot of the snow off the deck melted. Crazy to think they called the buses off the road for such a nice day! The R-man informed me this morning, though, that they are calling for a winter storm tonight. Nice. March - lion to lamb...I guess we have to see the lion part to appreciate the lamb, right?
Speaking of lamb, I am going to be heading down to Cuz's house this weekend to go to the Canada Bloom's Show. She doesn't live real close to where the show is held, but at least she is closer than I. Now, that said, I have made a big boo-boo, and done a wee bit of double-booking myself this weekend. But, I think a workable plan has been hatched, and we will STILL get to spend some quality time together - which we have not been able to do as much as we like to do normally.
Cuz, I won't be able to arrive until close to supper time on Saturday evening - Hubby is working Friday night, and I have an appointment/date with Jazzy's mom earlier on Saturday, so I thought I would be able to make it for drinks on Saturday, then we could head to the show on Sunday. Would that work?? I won't rush away after the show, but I think that is going to be the most workable option right now.
The A-man just read my last sentence over my shoulder and said, "Ugh...you are leaving again?? Every weekend you leave us...you hate us don't you?" He knows that is not true, but he sure does know how to pull on those heart strings...
Speaking of the A-man...toes are still looking icky, but I think we have been able to drain most of the infection. I am going to monitor things, and continue to pick at things, for a couple of days, and if I don't think I am going to be able to be successful with the hang nail, I will be making a doctor's appointment.
Hubby and I have made an appointment with a nutritionist for March 17. We have been planning on going to see her for quite a while, but the past few months have been just far to chaotic to even consider doing major dietary changes, too. It is time.
Monday, March 3, 2008
...and, REST...
I will admit it - I love going to hotels. I love going out to dinner, having drinks and meals "on the company", but I am VERY happy to be done all of that for yet another year. I was bone-tired when I got home last night! Even my cheeks hurt from smiling non-stop for three days. But, it was a good weekend, it was a fun weekend, and I am really glad I got to experience the 'other' side of the coin. It is more physically demanding, but alot less stress-inducing!
The flu seems to have worked its way through the house, thank heavens. I have not felt any grumblings in my body - touching wood here - and it would appear the A-man came through unscathed, also. I am not going in to work this morning, and I think I will play it by ear for this afternoon. We had quite a bit of freezing rain last night, and yet another snow day today, so if the roads are still nasty, I think I may not go in after all. May have a nap later... ;o)
I got an email from S's SERT telling me that she had been able to repair S's computer, but I was surprised by that because when I asked S about his laptop yesterday, he told me it wasn't fixed yet. Maybe she got it done and didn't tell him. Not sure.
S has his appointment tomorrow morning to get the results of his fMRI. I had sent some forms to the school, asking the teachers to complete the information, but I haven't seen the completed forms. Now today is a snow day - or would be an ice day?? - and we will be at the Doctor's for 9:30 am. I guess I will have to call and see if they can fax the forms directly to the doctor's office.
Last night the A-man mentioned that his big toe was sore. When I took a look at it, I said, "No kidding it hurts." He has a majorly infected ingrown toenail. Apparently it's been like this for a few weeks, but he never mentioned it. Oh, and his other toe is starting to hurt too. Yeah, it's also infected, but not as badly. I have made him soak it, and I've been working at the nail, but it hurts him so much. I'm feeling bad for him, but I want to know I've made the attempts to remedy it before I source out the doctor's office. Even searched the Internet to confirm the best way to proceed. Guess I will be going through some salt in the next few days...
That is the worst part about them growing up so fast - they insist on taking over the personal hygiene-type things, and won't let you near them, and then the next thing you know... I think he has learned this lesson the hard way, poor guy.
The flu seems to have worked its way through the house, thank heavens. I have not felt any grumblings in my body - touching wood here - and it would appear the A-man came through unscathed, also. I am not going in to work this morning, and I think I will play it by ear for this afternoon. We had quite a bit of freezing rain last night, and yet another snow day today, so if the roads are still nasty, I think I may not go in after all. May have a nap later... ;o)
I got an email from S's SERT telling me that she had been able to repair S's computer, but I was surprised by that because when I asked S about his laptop yesterday, he told me it wasn't fixed yet. Maybe she got it done and didn't tell him. Not sure.
S has his appointment tomorrow morning to get the results of his fMRI. I had sent some forms to the school, asking the teachers to complete the information, but I haven't seen the completed forms. Now today is a snow day - or would be an ice day?? - and we will be at the Doctor's for 9:30 am. I guess I will have to call and see if they can fax the forms directly to the doctor's office.
Last night the A-man mentioned that his big toe was sore. When I took a look at it, I said, "No kidding it hurts." He has a majorly infected ingrown toenail. Apparently it's been like this for a few weeks, but he never mentioned it. Oh, and his other toe is starting to hurt too. Yeah, it's also infected, but not as badly. I have made him soak it, and I've been working at the nail, but it hurts him so much. I'm feeling bad for him, but I want to know I've made the attempts to remedy it before I source out the doctor's office. Even searched the Internet to confirm the best way to proceed. Guess I will be going through some salt in the next few days...
That is the worst part about them growing up so fast - they insist on taking over the personal hygiene-type things, and won't let you near them, and then the next thing you know... I think he has learned this lesson the hard way, poor guy.
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