tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71327208059342767702011-10-10T23:52:30.040-04:00The stories of one family and their experiences with Asperger's.Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.comBlogger4241100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-7922942689444502822011-08-14T18:01:00.002-04:002011-08-14T18:07:46.391-04:00

Team Golando and Kiki's family are experiencing various symptoms of grief. Kiki has a continuous feeling of shortness of breath, fatigue, and sadness. Marty is over-actively cleaning every room, drawer, cupboard and closet in their home. Loo avoids everyone and is very irritable and angry. Hal is still at camp, and Kiki worries how he is doing. His notes are very brief and do not give much

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-7953833599599529582011-08-04T20:10:00.002-04:002011-08-04T20:14:55.067-04:00

Team Golando collectively feels like their hearts are broken with the death of Kiki's father. An impromptu picnic at Gramma's the day after the funeral, everyone keeps their shit together. Until Kiki and Marty are driving home and Kiki is describing how hard her day was, how her brain felt numb and how it felt like part of her was missing, but she couldn't really name what part. It wasn't like

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-82390653344358620582011-08-01T19:36:00.002-04:002011-08-01T19:42:55.709-04:00

Hal had two visits with Grampa before Kiki and Da took him to camp 3.5 hours from home. There had been a decline in Grampa between the two visits, and Hal seemed to know on some level that he might not see his Grampa again. He was very sad and withdrawn when left at camp. Kiki proceeded to send him an email a day chatting about how was camp and here is how things are at home, and mentioning

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-66138286192834457332011-07-21T18:26:00.005-04:002011-07-21T22:30:24.336-04:00

This week Kiki's Dad had a massive stroke. 48 hours later, just as glimmers of hope and plans for top of the line rehab was coming together, kidney cancer was identified with spots were also seen on the liver. Clotting ability was off, lungs were getting wet, inability to swallow, possible aspiration. More and more tears were shed. Kiki called Da and let him know "the latest" and that she

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-6717549212933619372011-07-13T20:04:00.002-04:002011-07-13T20:14:55.627-04:00

As Hal gets older, he feels he knows all about social skills and no longer needs to participate in social skills groups. Kiki has had mixed success over the years finding groups that are a good fit for Hal. The district feels an after school program led by the social worker with a mishmosh of students with different issues would be perfectly adequate. Hal very much needs to be with similarily

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-88820753174148350852011-07-10T17:27:00.002-04:002011-07-10T17:38:07.435-04:00

When Hal was entering kindergarten, he wore glasses. Specifically, he wore glasses exactly like Harry Potter. And, frankly, many people commented about how much like Harry Hal looked. When Hal was twelve, he became interested in the books and plowed his way through the first four books. Kiki noticed that Hal lost interest when Harry's age in the book and the tone surpassed Hal's and the

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-9327591933922201692011-07-03T10:53:00.002-04:002011-07-03T11:13:58.343-04:00

Kiki began to think about how there are only two more years of teaching Church School before Hal enters the confirmation class. She continued to be stuck on how one of the boys in the very small group Hal attends with seemed to continually discreetly bully Hal. Small things, a push, repeated kicks under the table, mocking remarks, that could easily just be boys being boys but seemed to be

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-27995442235565087172011-06-27T19:09:00.003-04:002011-06-27T19:16:55.017-04:00

Kiki can honestly say hindsight is 20/20. While it seemed like a good idea to have a full weekend with Hal's BFF, in hindsight, it was two days too much. There was plenty of rough housing and got you last, you flinched punching and hitting and good natured bickering, but in the end, too much. Hal is not as energetic as his friend, and he has a low threshold for social overload. His friend is

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-35047201045760618972011-06-25T13:01:00.002-04:002011-06-25T13:06:50.973-04:00

Flipping through Hal's writing journal, Kiki finds this:Dear Apple,I think that you should sell your products at Game Stop. I know it seems like a bad idea but if you think about it for one minute, you would see that selling it there would give more profit to the company if you sold the I-pods, I-touch's and I-pads 1 and 2 at Game Stop where a large group of preeteens to people in their early 20

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-32188983808662185682011-06-19T10:49:00.002-04:002011-06-19T10:49:52.123-04:00

Two thoughts for Father's Day.Hal: "The smell of those onions tastes bad."Tony Attwood:http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2011/06/17/3246425.htm

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-44960252128811410622011-06-15T17:05:00.003-04:002011-06-15T17:09:16.483-04:00

Hal announces he does not need to go to school this week. Kiki asks, what about the two days next week that mark the end of the school year? Hal says that goes without being said that he meant this week and those two days. Before Kiki could state Hal was going to school, he quickly stated his reasons:- no work is being done, it's the end of the year!- I'm not coming back here ever again since

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-65662915428457281532011-06-12T09:23:00.003-04:002011-06-12T11:51:37.612-04:00

Late at night, Kiki and Da compared notes. Kiki had just returned from a seminar in Boston with Dr. Isabelle Henault, North American sexologist presenting from her book, Asperger's Syndrome & Sexuality: From Adolescence to Adulthood. The information presented was very informative and Kiki came home with useful information regarding her developing young man with Asperger's. Kiki felt slightly

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-19439970782049450332011-06-04T18:20:00.002-04:002011-06-04T18:54:35.210-04:00

As the end of the school week approached, and the school concert, Kiki had mixed feelings. Hal had not willingly participated in a school concert ever and the couple of productions from early elementary school were hard to watch on home movies. Hal's unhappiness and different-ness shroud him like an aura as he sits on the stage with the other kindergartners but does not smile, does not sing,

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-86601488154599289642011-05-30T21:10:00.002-04:002011-05-30T21:17:19.854-04:00

It has been weeks, really months, since Hal has gotten really stuck and had a melt down. And he has been so on top of his game, Kiki didn't see the Memorial Day 2011 meltdown coming. One minute he was helping his uncle with the grill, then he was asking to go home, then again to go home, then embarrassingly asking to go home, then insistent and Kiki was more embarrassed. Really, Kiki wasn't

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-87768048020090230862011-05-29T20:32:00.002-04:002011-05-29T20:54:17.645-04:00

Hal enters Kiki's bedroom and says repeatedly not to be mad. Kiki gets mad because it is taking him so long to tell her why she shouldn't be mad. Turns out the arm fell off his eye glasses. It is actually good timing as Kiki needs to go to the mall 30 minutes away to return something and of course Marty has things she wants to procur. Everyone piles into the car and makes the drive. Hal and

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-45988682701316608152011-05-28T16:35:00.002-04:002011-05-28T16:42:12.513-04:00

Another week slipped by. Kiki fretted about upcoming "placement PPT" where the debate would continue over the number of hours and the service delivery model for Hal's social and pragmatic language needs. Da got a clean bill of health regarding his new heart valve. Kiki sent herself to the spa for several hours for a mental health day. Da took Hal to the dentist where Kiki was horrified to

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-35344887201174532842011-05-21T19:42:00.002-04:002011-05-21T19:53:59.893-04:00

Kiki had never heard of T.O.P.S. She had to Google it to find out what it stood for: The Outreach Program for Soccer. When Hal had stated at the dinner table a few months back that he wanted to try soccer, Kiki fretted. The typical kiddies had been playing soccer since Kindergarten. Hal was 13 and had never played. Kiki mentioned it to Dr. K the psychiatrist who immediately suggested

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-74447470087965575082011-05-15T19:54:00.003-04:002011-05-15T20:06:27.171-04:00

Marty announces in the car late on Sunday that immediately after Church School, Hal came into her classroom to tell her something and another boy punched Hal in the back. Marty was pissed. She told Kiki that she told the boy and the boy's guest to get out of her classroom and when he stepped further into the room she gestured with her fist and shouted at him to get out. Kiki was instantly

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-8682699800360340292011-05-09T19:39:00.002-04:002011-05-09T19:51:45.704-04:00

For some weeks the neighbor's orange striped male cat, Cheeto, has been seen roaming around our street at all hours of day or night. It has become increasingly apparent that the lady who lives across the street, divorcing her husband, with her new boyfriend (with MS and a walker) has moved in, plus daughter and preschooler. Of the two cats the lady next door owns, it seems like only Cheeto has

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-80017642792348844752011-05-08T20:55:00.001-04:002011-05-08T20:55:40.345-04:00

"The Reasons I Love My Mom Are:- She is always there to help when I need it.- She is always there to cook.- She is always working to get the money to keep the roof over my head.- She is there to tell my troubles to.Love, Hal"

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-22959405055184267372011-05-01T23:19:00.002-04:002011-05-01T23:30:51.625-04:00

Kiki taught her last Church School class for the calendar year. Completely unplanned, she ended up with Hal and D, a boy who could be a bit of a bully at times, as the only two students. The lesson was to review the resurrection via Luke and the road to Emmaus. As the boys finished reading the piece, each taking a turn, Kiki tried a technique learned the day before at ASCONN via fabulous Paula

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-4241610401366805952011-04-27T16:47:00.003-04:002011-04-27T17:03:22.780-04:00

Kiki will be glad when the triennial for Hal's sped program is behind her. It is stressful juggling 5 balls at once. The current sped school, the district, the potential transitional sped school, the young social skills guru, and three other opinions. Wait! That's 8 balls! Today approval was given to schedule two half day visits for Hal at the transitional school to see how he does and give

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-64629970274295746902011-04-22T21:14:00.005-04:002011-04-22T21:30:02.691-04:00

Kiki is starting to feelin the weight on her chest due to building anxiety regarding Hal's upcoming triennial. The sped school's evals seem to indicate lack of progress and regression in math, one of Hal's harder subjects. Everyone is on vacation, though. No one is available to answer Kiki's questions. The current sped school is not available to discuss what is going on. The potential

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-14589404036630727922011-04-18T07:54:00.002-04:002011-04-18T08:10:44.742-04:00

It was a full day for Hal and for Kiki. A birthday party to celebrate Hal's 13th at an indoor waterpark an hour away with three friends. Anxiety was still up for Hal. Whereas the year before he had been able to go down the waterslides repeatedly, this year Hal could not. On the heels of Friday's hair cutting, Kiki mused she should not have been surprised. At the end of the day, though, when

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-21142102569427847062011-04-14T14:10:00.002-04:002011-04-14T14:37:39.301-04:00

Hal's excellent social skills group leader (the young enthusiastic man who is a protogee of Michelle Garcia Winner's) sent home a work sheet entitled "What does our social radar look like" with some questions. Out of curiosity, Kiki asked Hal a couple of the questions. He was annoyed, because he feels he is so beyond these questions and the hand out. Kiki asked "who are the people that are in

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-48289075771674501552011-04-05T20:12:00.005-04:002011-04-05T20:36:28.717-04:00

Hi Kiki,I've worked with smart guys and dumb guys, young and old. I've worked with brilliant professers with PHD's and really bright, quick thinking people who struggle with the same exact things. Simple instructions like: Cut it THEN drill it THEN sand it. Very simple right??? No - what seems simple when carefully analyzed is not simple when dealt with in the real world. I've got guys that can't

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-26385001541639241062011-04-03T18:53:00.003-04:002011-04-03T18:59:07.826-04:00

Kiki received a short email from the principal of F school asking if there was something Kiki was not telling the principal. She indicated that Hal was telling his friends at F school that he's going to a new school. The principal stated she knew that Kiki was considering some options, but was unaware it had progressed to a decision point. Kiki emailed her back and let her know that there was

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-16234793481638267592011-03-27T08:30:00.002-04:002011-03-27T08:40:23.034-04:00

It was a very challenging weekend for Team Golando in that Loo's relationship with her GF came to a bit of a head on Friday night. Nine months together is a long time when one is 19 years old and in love for the first time. While observers (family and friends) offer constructive criticism, no one in a love, let alone at 19 is interested. Everyone learned of the unexpected, out of left field break

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-22366173944238552092011-03-24T08:31:00.003-04:002011-03-24T08:49:51.783-04:00

With Hal's special education triennial review 6 weeks away, Kiki and Da took the District up on their invitation to observe at the Middle School. For half a day they sat in on various classroom settings and met with various staff members. This included social worker, speech language pathologist, guidance counselor, the principal (who gave the most unfriendly welcome of all), and the sped

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-28032094856491643992011-03-18T23:42:00.002-04:002011-03-18T23:52:57.261-04:00

Kiki came home from a Friday trip to the office. It was the start of Loo's college break. Kiki entered the house to Loo shouting at Hal to "not ask any more F'ing questions! Limit yourself to two a day! I'll be home for the next week!" Kiki was annoyed. In hindsight, Loo had just completed an intense week of studying and two exams on Friday alone. Loo's day also included a trip to the doctor

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-88207471786606799022011-03-14T07:57:00.002-04:002011-03-14T08:02:09.971-04:00

Loo blamed it on the moon's position to the earth, drawing the ocean to higher heights during the tsunami that hit Japan over the weekend. Her struggles with college and her GF seem small beside them, but my stomach feels the devasation of both. Marty's struggle to control her eating during two day conference with food constantly spread before her was heart breaking. Da advised, when the

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-26472504664625434992011-03-10T21:14:00.002-05:002011-03-10T21:22:04.968-05:00

A long day for Kiki. Two hours in the car commuting, nine hours in corp HQ, ninety minutes enjoying a burger with Loo and making sure she was hanging in there after the ring incident, thirty minutes of errands, sixty minutes of church personnel committee meeting, thirty minutes checking in with Marty and Da, sixty minutes of homework. The best time: listening to Hal sing Tom Petty's "Free Falling

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-26904362533366709092011-03-06T20:29:00.001-05:002011-03-06T20:47:58.639-05:00

Kiki still feels gut wrenching distress. Saturday, Loo showed her finger to Kiki. The ring her GF gave her for Xmas, which was too small, and Loo and Da coordinated to exchange with the craftsman in Hawaii for a larger size, seemed to be stuck on Loo's middle finger. It's loverly sterling silverness, with heart-felt sentiment in raised text on the interior, still too loose for Loo's ring

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-72613647842502935852011-02-28T19:05:00.002-05:002011-02-28T19:10:27.722-05:00

Kiki and Marty went to the gym together. Kiki sensed that something was amiss with Marty. She had been all full of bounce and effervescence when she departed for high school in the morning, but now was flat. It took a 35 minute work out before Marty could say to Kiki: "Do you know what happened to me today?" Kiki was a little afraid to hear. Marty explained that she leaves her extra math book in

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-75571155251502505242011-02-27T17:47:00.003-05:002011-02-27T18:19:10.051-05:00

Interesting dinner conversation. In an unusual twist of events, the patrons of last night's dinner included Kiki, Da and Hal. With Loo off at collge and Marty off with friends, and a dinner selection Hal will actually eat, his parents were delighted to have him join them for the 15 minutes it took him to devour his food. While enjoying the briefest interlude of bonding time, Hal asked Kiki where

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-15815788790211871412011-02-24T20:46:00.002-05:002011-02-24T20:55:37.354-05:00

During the blitz of Valentine's Day propaganda foisted upon TV watchers, one evening while Da and Hal sat together in the living room with the TV blaring but both boys playing video and computer games, Kiki walked into the room while a Vday commercial was on. It advertised a card that the buyer could personalize and the 20 something in the commercial was adding this sentiment: "I really like

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-20650434595084520902011-02-21T20:41:00.002-05:002011-02-21T20:50:04.798-05:00

Hal burst into Kiki's room and asked her to tell him about the time he fell down the stairs and hit his head. He could not remember all the details, but he did remember parts of it and wanted Kiki to fill in the details. Da had already alerted Kiki to the fact that Hal was full of chatter and questions, and wondered if Hal had taken his Rx that morning. Kiki pointed out the boy was not on a

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-46602189148761954992011-02-14T18:12:00.002-05:002011-02-14T19:50:53.785-05:00

Among the members of Team Golando, it is a known fact that Hal has a sweet tooth. A big one. The younguns speculate that Hal got his sweet tooth from Da. At any given time one can find a variety of sweets on Da's person or amongst his personal effects. Boxes of nerds, handfuls of Hershey's kisses, chocolates, fruit slices, cookies, hard candies are in Da's shirt pockets, his coat pockets, hidden

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-74473291922182106842011-02-13T23:20:00.002-05:002011-02-13T23:24:57.120-05:00

Last night, as Da and Kiki were drifting off to sleep, Da said "Oh, I forgot to tell you." Many conversations since Da's anesthesia-induced brain fog start this way, Kiki mused to herself. "When I picked Hal up from group on Wednesday, as we were leaving, the boy in front of him got outside going down the walk towards the parking lot and dropped his books all over the place. Hal went over and

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-55742755102740225072011-02-09T23:26:00.002-05:002011-02-10T00:01:17.161-05:00

Each Monday, Da herds Hal into the mini van and they embark on the three hour journey to Full Spectrum Therapies where Chris Abilgaard runs a social skills group. When Kiki heard of this group, she hesitated in signing Hal up. He had just completed a rather dismal 8 week ordeal which had been recommended by the psychiatrist. Kiki agreed that Hal needed social skills groups, but there appeared to

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-60942357339534479042011-02-06T18:56:00.002-05:002011-02-06T19:17:36.077-05:00

Last week Hal was volunteered by another adult at Church to light the altar candles at the beginning of service this morning. Hal was nervous, but Kiki thought it tied in nicely with his recent request for a lighter. There was a long pole with a lighter on the end that curves over and neatly reaches into the cuff on the top of each altar candle and ignites the wick. Very slick. Kiki listens to

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-27360639525610748042011-02-05T19:10:00.002-05:002011-02-05T19:47:05.939-05:00

During Hal's horse riding lesson, after a few weeks of rather lackadaisical lessons with no demands made on him by his trainer, the ante was upped. After a few weeks of 4 degree weather resulting in lessons of walking and some trotting around the indoor rink, the trainer decided to practice cantering. Hal hadn't cantered in some time. Kiki and Hal had had some debates about whether or not he was

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-65396611491031347932011-02-03T21:59:00.002-05:002011-02-03T22:04:37.175-05:00

Next year Hal starts 7th grade. He knows the district thinks he should come back to public school. Hal has written 8 reasons why he does not want to go back to public school. However, lately a constant theme with Hal has been how he is older, more responsible. Hal has asked if there is a school where he will not stand out. He feels he stands out at F school. Kiki knows he has 2 peers, but

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-57077379897343545282011-02-01T19:09:00.002-05:002011-02-01T19:18:52.643-05:00

Kiki had observed for a few weeks that Hal's usage of his FB account had increased. Rather side by side, it had increased, with the change in Hal's voice and behavior. While Hal should not "officially" have a FB account given his age, Kiki knew it was another important indication of his increased maturity. Hal had friended a number of anime fans, all with Japanese names and hometowns listed in

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-12058892994665785772011-01-29T11:38:00.002-05:002011-01-29T11:42:37.423-05:00

Hal needed to complete the camper's questionnaire as part of the application process. Kiki tried to advise him during the process.In the space below, please share with us any thoughts or feelings you have about coming to camp this summer:Please tell us three things you are looking forward to at camp: *1. Swimming in the heated pool.*2. Hiking a mountain.*3. Meeting other boys like me.Please

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-1774485733076744372011-01-25T21:05:00.003-05:002011-01-25T21:15:25.893-05:00

Kiki realizes Hal is leaving childhood. Not only is his voice changing and there is hair down there, but the tooth fairy has stopped visiting. Once the children of Team Golando get to the cusp of teenage-hood, the tooth fairy senses the change and stops coming. It is not a precise science, this cusp crossing, but the tooth fairy always knows. When Hal's molar fell out and he tucked it under his

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-6966076025383390052011-01-19T19:52:00.002-05:002011-01-19T20:00:21.769-05:00

Hal started a social/life skills group on the shoreline. It was not something he was looking forward to. Hal feels like he gets "alot" of social skills between being in a SPED school setting and years of private programs Kiki has tracked down and enrolled him in. Hal reminded Kiki that next Monday the one an hour away from home starts up so why another one? Kiki explained this one was only 15

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-26435154644700998032011-01-14T21:58:00.003-05:002011-01-16T15:38:00.901-05:00

During the two day snow storm which kept Hal at home, he took to donning a ski cap with a charming nordic design. Kiki remarked on this to Da. Both Loo and Marty had gone through a "hat phase" in their early teens that lasted for multiple years. It seemed, Kiki observed, that Hal had woke up a teen and donned a hat. It wasn't until a few days later when Kiki and Hal were spending time

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-68858377434250855592011-01-14T21:47:00.002-05:002011-01-14T21:58:34.408-05:00

Kiki, in an effort for efficiency, planned a Friday night trip to the mall with Hal to have his glasses fixed. While Hal, who has been wearing glasses since four years old, was not hard on glasses, never the less they tended to show signs of wear after a year. Both arms were so wobbly they were almost no longer connected to the lens frame. It seemed like a good idea that the two of them should

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-60065599943622326282011-01-12T17:32:00.002-05:002011-01-12T17:47:59.300-05:00

Driving home late one night, Team Golando having just come from pizza dinner and sledding with family friends, Kiki sped by K-town's resident trooper tucked into the driveway of a private residence on Rte 841. She was doing 45 mph in a 25 zone. Crap. Da shook his head and began digging through the glovebox for the registration. Kiki shut off the car and waited. When the officer arrived at the

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-8832966699727087622011-01-10T17:35:00.002-05:002011-01-10T17:41:26.037-05:00

Kiki scratches her head and muses this is quite ironic. How could it be that Marty's scout troop has decided to develop an anti-bullying campaign and deliver it to the school Hal was bullied at? One might be touched and interpret this as Marty trying to solve the woes which befell Hal. Alas, this is not the case. Marty has made it very clear that she feels nothing can stop bullying and it is

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-69686059032656409012011-01-08T18:48:00.003-05:002011-01-08T18:52:57.312-05:00

On the way home from hippotherapy, Hal expressed some frustration. "I'm doing my best, but L is never satisfied!" The lesson had been particularily rugged, trotting and muliple segments of cantering. The trainer demonstrated for Hal why he bounced around so much in the saddle. Hal needs to sit back and let his hips rock with Zan's gait, left to right, not up and down. Kiki assured him he did

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-2847682983348869712011-01-05T19:22:00.003-05:002011-01-05T19:28:25.177-05:00

Today when Kiki asked Hal how school was, she got the same answer as always: "fine." She probed more and asked if his BFF was in school today, knowing that BFF was missing yesterday. Hal mused, no, no he was not. Hal went on state he should call BFF and find out if he's ok. Hal asked Kiki for the school directory so he could look up the phone number. Kiki heard him in the kitchen saying the names

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-9112130515277563592011-01-04T19:15:00.002-05:002011-01-04T19:20:28.911-05:00

An email arrived in Kiki's inbox from the director of Camp Akeela. There is an open house on Jan-16. Kiki is bringing Hal to see slide show, hear about the program, and ask questions. The cost of the camp for a 3 week stay this Summer is the cost of a very luxurious vacation for a family of five. In order to send Hal to this growth opportunity, Team Golando will not replace the refrigerator, or

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-81120521411101355182011-01-03T19:54:00.002-05:002011-01-03T20:04:46.043-05:00

Team Golando experienced a long and restful school vacation between Christmas and New Year's. However, the back to school eve arrived and despite Hal staying up many nights late playing Fable 3 with Da, Hal sent himself to bed early. Kiki was surprised by Hal's decision. He was in bed at 8 p.m. and sound asleep. Later that night, Da and Marty were having a loud discussion which woke Hal. Hal

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-18693428317361239612011-01-02T11:27:00.003-05:002011-01-02T11:34:03.482-05:00

For reasons no one can explain, Hal has an interest in the Sherlock Holmes stories. Da has a leather bound copy of the tales on his book shelf which Hal has decided he must read. Da was reluctant to let any of the leather bound books leave the shelf (including when Marty had a interest in the Bard) but Kiki pointed out as Da had never cracked them open, someone should. Hal advised Kiki, while

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-23819625447598208562011-01-01T19:28:00.002-05:002011-01-01T19:35:45.680-05:00

Kiki and Da presented their concerns to the other members of the PPT two weeks before Xmas. Hal had dictated his list of reasons why he felt he should stay at F school. Hal's attorney attended to help ensure his rights were met. Hal wanted to attend the meeting himself as "it is about me" but Kiki thought it would be too stressful for Hal. Hal's eczema was just beginning to heal, triggered

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-57885196148879332792010-10-02T19:41:00.005-04:002011-01-01T19:50:47.213-05:00

Aspie Boy has grown over an inch. He has developed in other places and has the emotional fluctuations of a budding teenager. He survived sped camp hours from home for two solid weeks, although he does not want to return. He had his first taste of cantering today during hippotherapy. Wow. In two months the school district will meet with me to begin discussing transitioning Hal back into the

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-62597117617464144612010-03-27T23:03:00.004-04:002011-01-01T19:42:06.984-05:00

With some turmoil, Kiki rearranged her schedule and Hal's and took Hal to the Cub Scout cross over day at Stag Pond. She had hoped that Da would rally and join them for an hour or two, but he did not feel up to it. Not to be deterred, Kiki packed lunches, compasses, lots of heavy clothes and set out. Nine hours later, Kiki deemed the event a success. Everyone was really nice to Hal and the

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-890129528163832012010-03-25T19:30:00.003-04:002011-01-01T19:54:41.735-05:00

The principal of F school emailed Kiki today and shared this:"Hal is eating lunch in my office (the kids take turns doing this, kind of like a privilege) and he's talking with D like a little counselor. D has been really bothering other kids lately. Here's what I'm hearing from Hal: 'You have a lot of potential, but I think you have some anger. You should concentrate on the good vibes, like

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-36794818040710674292010-03-20T21:18:00.003-04:002010-03-20T21:19:04.325-04:00

"Mom, I think I should get a TV in my room. I'm getting older and more responsible and I think I can be trusted enough to have my own TV. I wouldn't watch it all night. I could my own TV without being interrupted by my sisters or my Da. I could watch TV and relax at the same time."

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-35179038022458643762010-03-16T21:37:00.002-04:002010-03-16T21:49:17.786-04:00

Hal has reached a new awareness. The past several days Hal has been struggling with the word Autistic and the fact that he is Autistic. Kiki has tried to help Hal through his concern. He has struggled with why is he Autistic. Is it genetic? Is it something wrong with his brain? Is it true what he heard on TV? That is it because of mercury or preservatives in vaccinations? Do I know that 1 out of

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-74744544692898837322010-03-12T20:28:00.002-05:002010-03-12T20:34:11.729-05:00

Kiki finally agreed to allow the orthodontist to apply braces to Hal's top teeth. The ortho refused to pull Hal's incisors to make space for impacted canines, even though the incisors are pegs with incomplete roots. His point: even though Hal is only 12, he will be without teeth and with huge gaps in his mouth of Kiki's plan were put into place. And while that might not matter at 12, over the

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-25033560424383605062010-03-07T20:41:00.002-05:002010-03-07T20:45:16.574-05:00

Kiki met with Hal's clinical psychologist, Dr. S on Friday to review her updated evaluation results. Dr. S wanted to share some specific quotes from her conversation with Hal.- "I wish I could have a little more adventure in my life."- "I can't believe how boring life is."- Things that worry Hal: " 2012 apocolypse, global warming."- "Girls are hard to understand."- "I'm ashamed of the life I

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-21361958594842830412010-03-04T17:29:00.002-05:002010-03-04T17:36:47.622-05:00

Kiki brought Da home yesterday. He survived heart surgery and arrived home very sore, tired, and emotional. Once settled on the couch, Da burst into tears which quickly turned to sobs. He hid his face under a blanket and sobbed. Loo and Marty patted his shoulder and spoke comforting words and went on about their business. Hal was very troubled by Da's tears. He repeatedly hugged his da and

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-73954260435617878382010-02-25T06:59:00.002-05:002010-02-25T07:35:24.265-05:00

The day of Da's heart surgery, the Golando children voted to not go to school. Hal was too upset and constantly complaining of an upset stomach. This agitated Loo to new heights of annoyance. Marty tried to keep the peace and Loo forced everyone to go out for a shopping trip. Hal lasted about 15 minutes and felt sick. This pushed Loo into a "I'm-fine-I'm not worried-about-Da" rage and

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-74806242778805614362010-02-23T21:04:00.003-05:002010-02-23T21:14:53.807-05:00

Monday night Hal's anxiety regarding Da's heart surgery began to present itself. He had been unraveling a little at a time, but having last week off for school vacation reduced a stressor and helped keep Hal even-keeled a bit longer than Kiki expected. Hal was in and out of bed frequently and also came into Kiki and Da's bedroom and expressed his worry around 5 a.m. Da and Kiki put Hal on the

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-87551392024754135522010-02-22T19:51:00.003-05:002010-02-22T19:54:40.418-05:00

Sunday, Pastor C called Hal out of the group of children gathered at the front of the sanctuary for the conversation with children portion of the service. He asked Hal Golando to stand up with him and then told Hal that we all understood that Hal's Da was having heart surgery this week and it was pretty worrisome for us, but that the whole congregation was praying for Da and that Da was in God's

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-12809741999204656762010-02-20T17:56:00.002-05:002010-02-20T18:05:22.301-05:00

Hal was actually buoyant today. Laughing, making jokes, light of spirit. Sailed through horse lesson, last bit of evaluations, and therapy session. His therapist observed that it was evident just the toll school in general takes on Hal. Even a good school like F school is still a challenge and stress for Hal. Being off this week has greatly brightened his spirits and it shows. The therapist

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-46749434306326208472010-02-14T21:06:00.002-05:002010-02-14T21:11:28.763-05:00

While Da's open heart surgery of a significantly serious type rapidly approaches, Team Golando tries to keep things cool. It is hard as Kiki and Da are both nervous and trying not to show it, but they are hugging more frequently which is not the norm and surely noticed by the other team members. And Hal, in his Aspie way, is showing his anxiety. He has always been a highly aware and atune

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-55923823863405028282010-02-10T23:35:00.002-05:002010-02-10T23:41:04.970-05:00

A mostly quiet snow date for Team Golando. Kiki worked a solid 14 hours while her employer closed the offices. Da vegged out on video games. Loo was sick and took it easy. Marty was online with friends all day. Hal, was a bit at loose ends. Still without the coveted Assassin's Creed and forced to watch Loo play it left him a bit stuck. He paced around a bit, seemingly bored. He stopped

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-5978974857528979372010-02-08T21:04:00.003-05:002010-02-08T21:11:15.493-05:00

Sunday was a difficult day for Hal. Having seen Loo play Assassin's Creed for hours, Hal was very stuck on wanting to have his own copy and play. Loo had already determined that the game was too violent for Hal and had offered her profound 18 year old verdict on the subject, adding to Hal's angst. All throughout Church and Church School Hal whispered at Kiki, negotiating for a turn on Loo's

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-71789324142986262122010-02-05T20:45:00.002-05:002010-02-05T20:53:48.151-05:00

Kiki took Hal to F school for a Madi Gras party complete with dance music, make your own sundaes bar, and craft station, and of course, beads for all. Hal was not very interested in going. None of his friends were going. Kiki countered that she knew D was going and Hal argued D wasn't one of his closest friends. Kiki reminded him that Dr. K said Hal needs to get out and socialize more and so,

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-32298906894394318052010-02-03T20:08:00.003-05:002010-02-03T20:14:36.483-05:00

Kiki has seen Hal in a variety of settings the last couple of days with mostly successful outcomes. Sunday was Church where fidgeting and roaming around was pretty minimal with cues. Sunday evening was Loo's big birthday bash with lots of noisy teens and 2.5 hours in a Chinese restaurant. Hal had enough before the event was over, but was able to keep himself together and keep griping pretty

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-35340970478335003022010-01-30T22:04:00.002-05:002010-01-30T22:11:44.612-05:00

Kiki took Hal to visit his F school friend, E at the NY hospital where he has been staying for the past 3 weeks while his meds clear out of his system and get reset. Hal was tasked with being the co pilot and following the directions printed from Google to find their way 1.5 hours from home. Hal was very concerned with Kiki turned an illegal uturn on the highway to correct direction and locate

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-17931919334759830572010-01-28T18:50:00.002-05:002010-01-28T19:10:26.047-05:00

One day last week, Hal stayed home from school unexpectedly. He left for school with no issues, but then threw up on the bus. They had to pull over the bus and call Da to come get Hal. He stayed home, but was not stomach sick. It seemed like he was anxious. Hal could actually tell Kiki and Da later in the day he was anxious, but was unable to pinpoint what was making him anxious. Kiki

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-51277444739962963272010-01-23T22:15:00.002-05:002010-01-23T22:21:33.287-05:00

Unlike last Saturday, Hal struggled with his horse lesson. He was anxious and his stomach got upset. Then Hal was able to talk about how upset he was with himself for not being able to complete his lesson. Kiki assured Hal that his trainer was not mad at him, and he had really stuck it out 25 minutes out of 30 so he should feel good about that. Da's upcoming surgery is weighing heavily on

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-13333810473200716812010-01-19T21:19:00.002-05:002010-01-19T21:27:56.446-05:00

Kiki was most surprised during Hal's psychiatrist visit today - Dr. K was not all up in Kiki's grill with a list of things she needed to work on with Hal. Instead Dr. K told Hal what a great job he was doing remaining calm and engaging in the conversation despite not wanting to come to the appointment, being caught off guard by the fact that there was an appointment, and having to wait half an

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-29025409299229717292010-01-18T21:17:00.002-05:002010-01-18T21:25:57.581-05:00

Somehow it has become a family tradition to go bowling on MLK day as everyone has the day off and there is always a coupon from the local bowling alley almost expiring that Kiki feels obligated to use. Today was no different. Two hours of bowling, bumpers up, Loo bowling strike after strike, Marty feeling like a loser, Hal exhausted from swimming immediately before bowling but having a good

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-42138135486403721542010-01-15T20:52:00.003-05:002010-01-15T20:57:35.110-05:00

The Principal of F School reported to Kiki today that Dr. S observed Hal in his outplacement school setting and was gushing regarding how much hal has improved since she last saw him. When Dr. S observed Hal in the public school setting he was unable to participate, unable to engage, unable to have meaningful (if any) interactions with peers, wandered around the fringe of the classroom, was

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-23537938358653283122010-01-10T17:17:00.002-05:002010-01-10T17:22:47.584-05:00

Kiki was a little worried about Hal would do in church school after having three Sundays off. He was a little fidgety in the pew, but did go and shake a few hands during the good morning sign of peace. He asked for a break and took it discreetly and returned within designated time. He was slightly argumentative in a whisper while negotiating his break, but did not get loud. He participated in

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-81777758787278821532010-01-09T13:15:00.004-05:002010-01-09T13:20:54.516-05:00

Hal was reluctant to restart hippotherapy after 5 weeks off due to conflict with swim schedule. He was knee deep in the Godfather game, whacking people, and protested slightly. The key word being slightly: no major meltdown, no ongoing crying jag, shouting or anger. Once at the lesson, there was no crying, anger or refusal to mount. Instead, Hal was up on Zan, trotting independently.

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-66169182838650917262010-01-07T19:11:00.002-05:002010-01-07T19:22:52.121-05:00

Kiki took Hal to his ortho appointment today. First follow up since his oral surgery to remove 3 teeth to make room for adult teeth to come down. Dr. Ortho (who gets a mixed review as a pediatric anything as apparently he has done no training to support special needs patients) takes a new Xray and explains the options. He recommends 8 braces on upper teeth to attempt to move canines, deep

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-38061961993839163312010-01-04T22:56:00.002-05:002010-01-04T22:59:32.585-05:00

Unlike when Hal was in public school, where every return to school, after a weekend, after one night of sleep, after a long weekend or a vacation was a crying jag, a breakout of eczema, acid reflux and vomiting, the return to F School after the lengthy holiday break was eventless. No complaining, no anxiety, no crying, little difficulty falling to sleep or getting up. Bright eyed and bushy

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-12460323645545623872010-01-03T20:22:00.002-05:002010-01-03T20:27:46.226-05:00

Kiki began rereading Hal's evals from independent experts from late 2008 and was brought back to the dark time for Hal when he had no real peers and no friends -- no social invitations for multiple years in a row. Dark times indeed. It is hard to imagine returning Hal to that time and it is hard to imagine how anyone could not see the significant improvement in Hal with no other changes in his

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-316268448301489622010-01-01T17:22:00.002-05:002010-01-01T17:30:59.438-05:00

Team Golando made it through the holidays, although there was a cloud of worry hanging over each head with Da's aortic valve replacement surgery on the horizon. The Golando children especially Loo and Marty were very helpful and Kiki appreciated their frequent hugs. Santa was good with a pair of fabulous Ugg snow boots for Kiki, a trip to Florida for Da to visit his best friend, an iTouch for

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-9335332224369137822009-12-25T18:54:00.002-05:002009-12-25T19:04:11.731-05:00

Hal was very excited on Xmas morning but was respectfully quiet. He went through his stocking and went downstairs to wake his sisters and tell them that they all received cool Nerf swords in their stockings. When Kiki and Da got up, everyone was ready to open presents. Hal was very excited with the Xbox360 that Santa brought him. After some time playing, they went down the street to see Nana

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-51138416007502687092009-12-24T21:09:00.002-05:002009-12-24T21:16:18.277-05:00

Xmas Eve and Aspie Boy was on top of his game. Calm and unruffled despite the excitement and noise of all the other cousins. No meltdown, no frustration or upset. On the car ride home from his grandparents, Hal mused aloud about the idea of of staying up all night to catch Santa. Hal had been asked for the past two weeks by multiple people if he believed in Santa. Hal's response each time

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-91065299064303445892009-12-21T20:45:00.003-05:002009-12-21T21:12:56.989-05:00

Kiki was not sure if she felt good or not about what seemed like a good idea. Hal has mixed feelings about attending the Boy Scout Pack meetings. They tend to be loud and unstructured with alot of boys he does not know. These meetings, one hour and fifteen minutes in length, have -- pre change of schools -- been a very painful experience. Much anxiety, crying and standing off to one side.

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-90339612347631509382009-12-18T23:18:00.002-05:002009-12-18T23:22:46.170-05:00

Kiki spent time one on one with Loo. They enjoyed a lavish dinner at a swanky Chinese restaurant and talked about Da's upcoming surgery, Loo's college options, and Kiki's worry about a possible challenge by the district re Hal's school. Loo was very concerned because she well remembered Hal's daily meltdowns, anxiety, crying and anger. She asked Kiki what grade Hal was going into next year.

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-40398791489099344802009-12-17T20:47:00.002-05:002009-12-17T20:50:17.394-05:00

Hal is eligible to participate in a number of Autism studies being conducted at the Yale Child Study center. Kiki thinks it is a good idea to have their situation contribute to increased understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders. He qualifies for DNA analysis, speech/pragmatic language, brain waves, and the list goes on. All of Team Golando is also invited to give DNA samples and Kiki advised

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-49609111510706604312009-12-13T21:55:00.004-05:002009-12-13T22:01:45.257-05:00

Kiki was pleased with how Hal interacted with his cousins and their cousins at a family dinner on Friday night at her brother's. They were able to stay an hour longer than they ordinarily would have. Swimming with Loo went well on Saturday for Hal and then came Sunday. Sunday was church school day and Hal got stuck on the car ride to church on the idea that he should be able to bring his

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-37574492291751429442009-12-08T21:30:00.003-05:002009-12-08T21:35:15.422-05:00

Da came up the hall and held up a bag of Hershey kisses that had neatly been cut along the top edge and was nearly completely empty. Da advised that he was pretty sure Hal had helped himself to the kisses intended for Xmas cookies as he was lurking suspiciously near the narrow cupboard he had hidden the bag in. When confronted, Hal confessed and suggested he be grounded from the computer. Kiki

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-49969507976376364772009-12-07T20:26:00.003-05:002009-12-07T20:31:46.277-05:00

Kiki and Da drove to Boston today to meet heart surgeon and discuss when Da will need replacement aortic valve surgery. They were dismayed to learn that the surgery needs to occur within the next two months and is likely to be significantly more complex than when first done 9 years ago. There were alot of mixed emotions to sort through and the modd was definitely not Xmas. They returned home

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-86695110188352508582009-12-06T17:53:00.002-05:002009-12-06T18:01:03.977-05:00

Gold star for Hal today. While extremely nervous about being assigned the task of being the leader during the church service reading for the lighting of the Advent candle -- a no nonsense task Kiki gave him as "it was his turn" -- he managed to pull himself together and read clearly and accurately with the correct pace. He protested a little bit the night before and a little bit in the a.m. and

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-60780908468919837012009-12-04T21:17:00.002-05:002009-12-04T21:29:41.075-05:00

Kiki was so pleased for Hal. Big day for Hal. First he had a play date after school with E, who is from a town two hours away and in a number of Hal's classes at F school. Da drove to school to pick the boys up and bring them to Hal's house as the bus company would not allow E to be a guest on Hal's van. A last minute snafu which Da handled with grace so Kiki could continue to work instead of

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-75420814342673336402009-12-01T19:57:00.003-05:002009-12-01T20:03:07.406-05:00

Here's something typical families do not have to deal with, Kiki thought to herself somewhat bitterly: a meltdown from an eleven year old boy when told he had an eye exam in 15 minutes. Kiki tried to do the right think and had given Hal notice the night before. And, possibly in the a.m., too. Although, maybe she ony meant to remind him again but did not actually remind him again. So, when Hal

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-27134622591160763152009-11-29T23:07:00.002-05:002009-11-29T23:13:44.292-05:00

Two interesting things occurred over Thanksgiving weekend. First, during a shouting match, Hal was able to clearly express his frustration with Kiki to her and able to participate in a conversation about boundaries and how his own behavior negatively impacts others, including his mother. The conversation happened on the way to therapy and highlighted both his developing awareness and the growth

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-23040476014842007152009-11-27T20:04:00.002-05:002009-11-27T20:22:38.387-05:00

Hal had swim lesson and Kiki took him. The past few Fridays, Loo had taken her brother. Kiki was impressed with his strokes, which had clearly improved since a month or so ago. The instructor is a young woman versus a young man. The young man was too nice with Hal whereas the girl is no nonsense and Hal works harder. After the lesson, Hal took Kiki's cell phone and dialed Da to ask if he

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7132720805934276770.post-11803275827729264562009-11-26T20:01:00.002-05:002009-11-26T20:07:23.246-05:00

Kiki felt thankful on Thanksgiving Day for still having a job and her husband's love. She felt thankful that Hal was in a better place, that Loo and Marty seemed to be doing well and were becoming friends more and more. She felt thankful that the holiday was quiet and pleasant, time with both families and no meltdowns for Hal! He only got a little frustrated in the mid afternoon and was able

Kikihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00131939459387208752noreply@blogger.com0