Back to School

Michael headed back to school today, much to everyone's relief. It was nice to have a break, but we all missed the structure of our school routine. He was a little nervous this morning but actually managed to pull out a fantastic day. Only one reminder for the whole day, and all his points! Yes, I'm very proud of him.

I'm also trying to get into an after school routine that ensures homework is done early. Today he was really hungry when he got home so he had an early dinner and then homework. Then, lots of playing and relaxing. I just hope the rest of the week goes as smoothly!

Fruit picking

We went on a playdate yesterday with a friend of Michael's from school and his family. It was really nice and I think the kids had fun. The parents had a lot of fun too since we went apple and berry picking. (OK, maybe Steve didn't have as much fun since he ended up carting Michael around in a wheelbarrow.)

I was suprised that Michael seemed to enjoy picking the apples and promised that if I made a pie he would eat it. I didn't really believe him but I made the pie anyway.

So, we made our very first gluten/casein/soy/egg free apple pie. I was shocked that it actually browned, since so many of our creations come out of the oven looking the same that they went in. It was really funny because Michael was nagging all afternoon about when the pie would be ready and when he could eat it.

So, after much fussing, we cut into the pie and Michael had his first taste of apple pie. He's not neglected, he just never wanted to try before! He wasn't all that impressed and I ened up finishing his piece. The filling was pretty good but the crust still needs work. If I ever get it right, I'll let you know.

Of course, today's challenge is to make a peach/blackberry crisp. I have much more hope for that one!

One step forward..

Today was a pretty good day overall, but the end was pretty depressing. I understand that Michael still has huge, enormous sensory issues, but I just don't understand how he can throw a tantrum over watching more doors after spending half an hour riding elevators and watching doors. Lately, he's been able to express his desire for the one thing that will let him leave happily(one more ride, playing a game when we get home, etc.). Today, he just couldn't. So, he dropped to the ground and screamed.

I'm pretty much over being embarassed by the tantrums, but it still depresses me to see him lose control. In some ways, the better he gets, the harder it is to see him lose it. So tonight, I'm just going to be thankful for the days he can hold it together and not focus on being disappointed when he can't.

Starting Over!

OK, summer is quickly ending and it's time to start thinking about getting back into a routine. So, my new resolution is to get back to posting here. I miss sitting at the end of the day and reflecting on it. Some days are great, others not so great, but it's nice to keep track.

Today has been a mostly great day. We needed to take Michael for blood tests this morning. (I say 'we' in the most general sense of the word. Steve and Dan (my BIL) actually took Michael because they can only handle one traumatized person at a time.) Anyway, it has always taken at least two people to hold Michael still for the draw. Now that he's gotten so much bigger, it's pretty much impossible.

Today, Michael started out fussing and crying and then realized he just had to do it. He told the phlebotomist to 'take the blood out of my arm' and actually talked with her during the process! I couldn't believe it when Steve told me about it. But, it really sank in when I saw how proud Michael was.

Michael has struggled all summer with self control and behavior. It's nice to think that maybe he's finally making progress in holding it together and not melting down. Now, I'm sure that we still have tons of meltdowns ahead of us, but I am really taking this as a positive step.

Of course, after we got home Michael wanted to go ride elevators. It's his favorite treat in the world. And one that no one else likes. But, we had enough guilt that we took him to the mall and let him ride different elevators for over an hour. So, he was thrilled with that and still proud of himself for the rest of the day. I like good days!