Lucas School Christmas Fair

Wednesday 28 November was the day of Lucas' School Christmas Fair.  It was to be held at the School, from 3.20pm.   

I was secretly dreading going, as it would be a crowded venue, and a relatively new venue (for me!) too...  Ok, I know its Lucas' School, he has been going there since September, HE knows it really well, but I don't.

I only know where the Headmistress Office is... OH and his Classroom. :-) - My Stress Levels were set to High, but this was something we needed to do together, and I was determined we were going to have FUN! - I even rearranged his Tennis Lesson so he could attend this "Social!" event.  How organised am I?

Lucas does not cope very well in a crowd.  Ok that's a major understatement.

He has a "protection mechanism" - I have finally learned what this is  (as I have been on the courses!) - unfortunately, his "protection mechanism" involves him subtly hitting me (hard) when noone is looking.   Imagine the hammer on a large clock?  That's what he does.  Its great!   He does this at the beginning of a "stressful" time - pre Meltdown..   We were in the queue waiting to go into the hall, and his eyes started to turn green, and the hammer started - this releases HIS stress! - he does this because he loves me..... hmmmm   OK Psycologists lets discuss this fully!

We got through the door, and then - Dr Jekyll vanished!!! - it was incredible! - suddenly there was this amazing polite, determined little boy on a mission - and Mummy had better just keep up with him - and follow orders! 

The best part was just 2 minutes into the room, I only had a £10 note on me, and of course, all the games were 20p - I confess I am NOT organised!!! -  IF I was an Organised Parent - I would have had a little bag of 20p pieces in my pocket.

I am NOT organised.

Hello, my name is Louise, and I am NOT an Organised Parent (sorry)

SO I had no change! - neither did any of the stall holders... one of his teachers told him he could have a quick go on her game now, and mummy would pay later - he just calmly said to his teacher, "No, she hasn't got any change yet, we will get some, and then we will come back and I will win your game", with that statement, he turned and took me to the next crowded stall.  She said - "Aww, he is so adorable, he's so HONEST isn't he - you must be so proud"  (((ok, I was.... especially when we came back to her stall and he scored 75 points in the beanbag basket ball game - he was right - he did come back and win her game))).

Lucas School Fair results.... he scored - 75 points on the try and score 50 points beanbags basket ball, went all the way across the board with the Higher-Lower Card game, pinned the tail on the donkey perfectly (twice.... hmmm note to self.... he was "extremely accurate... almost like he could see.....) picked the right things with all the "guess the objects" things, munched up a gingerbread man - oh and Mummy won TWO bottles of Wine on the Grown-Ups Tombola.... - or in other words the finally changed £10 dissappeared very quickly!

I was quite impressed that I was allowed to have a go on the Grown UP Tombola Stall, - and even more impressed when both my tickets were winners! 

Here are the results from our trip to the School Fair - minus the Gingerbread Man (my survival coffee) and several sweets - he ate these before the photo could be taken  (and Dreamland friends - you know who you are - if you look closely you can see proof that "The Signs" are at it again - I just cannot escape can I?) 

Lucas was a little angel in a strange environment - progress has definitely been made - I was so proud of him, we went to Sainsburys Restaurant for Tea and had his favourite - Sausage and Mash, and he ate my mince pie too.

A very successful evening - 9 out of 10.

Love and best wishes to all


Louise and Lucas
Live from LucasLand.

Friends Reunited - October 2012 Edition!

Signs - they are all around you - how you read them - and what action you take is solely up to you.

Hello Blogland -

A total break from Reality

First of all, this post is going to be similar to my Friends Reunited Post in the August section of my Blog - see link on the Right. - it will also be a bit Spiritual, possibly Deep and Meaningful - but full of positivity and lots of hope for the future!

A couple of weeks ago I was walking in town, and looked in a Card Shop window - there was a Calendar - and the front Slogan said something like Keep believing in your dreams - they will become Reality" - or something like that, not quite "If you Build it - He will come..." but it was that sort of thing.   It stuck in my mind, and then got filed away in my braincell.  

I have been hoping to meet up with my Long Distance Friends for years and years now, and 2012 has been the magical year that Fate has mysteriously started to bring us all together again - and for some strange reason, Paris, London - and Corina seem to be the keys.   1 great day in RG in May (Corina, Reiko, Birte), 1 amazing day at Olympics Wimbledon (Mariano, Corina, Birte & Alina) in July, then 1 really unique and lovely day at London in October (Ernie) - (Please Fate - can we have some more?).

So... last week Corina and I are talking on Facebook, Venus Williams is playing Belinda Bencic in Luxembourg (thrilling I hear you all say) -

YES! this is quite amazing - when you find out that Marcus, Don and Ernie all went to Switzerland (and other places in Europe via UK and LA) in 2005 - they had a tennis match with Corina and interviewed an 8 year old Tennis Protege (and her parents) called Belinda Bencic - that was 7 years ago and that was also the last time I saw Don and Ernie.

Corina starts off the thread about the big match and how big the news was in Switzerland - and then starts reminising about the Don, Ernie, Marcus match 2005 - and out of the blue - Ernie joins in the conversation - with the news.... yes that was great... btw I'm in London next week - do you want to meet for Tea?

Thank you Mark Zuckerman for your little life-changing website!

Monday - was a great day - Thank you Emily and Nicky for picking up Lucas, and thank you Emily for Sleeping Over - Lucas had a lovely time, a really lovely time!

Ernie - thank you for making time to see us, and for the opportunities!!! - have a great trip - and hope to see you again soon.

Don, Betsy, Dayna, Mercedes, Veronika, and all my European friends.... watch out - Fate is dealing me some lovely cards.

Love and best wishes to All

Lucas got a Priviledge!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hello Blogland!

Today is Monday and after a rollercoaster couple of weeks of stressful posts - I have some good school news to report!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last Friday.....

LUCAS GOT A PRIVILEDGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He was so proud of himself.

After seeing him so upset last week, we set our own private goals with him - he was told that if he did NOT get another Consequence by Friday - he would earn a small surprise.   He came running out of the School Grounds last Friday shouting "I got a Priviledge!!!!!!!!!!!!!" he was so happy.  - That was a big surprise.

We upgraded the Reward System :-)  - Auntie Mandy took him to see Ice Age 4! - and (Lucas reported) it was Brilliant!

Marcus wanted to go to a Football Match in Kent on Saturday - and it was a beautifully sunny day! - so we all bundled into the car, and while Marcus watched his men kick a ball about - Lucas and I climbed all over the Navy Ships at The Historic Dockyard, Chatham!   -   this is an amazing place for ASD Children.   Parents and Carers go free - and one ticket lasts a whole year! - this was Lucas' 3rd trip - the last time he took his Daddy down into the Submarine.....   ON Saturday! - it was my turn...

I don't do small spaces.    Many many years ago - I  was lucky enough to have a chance to go into one of the Pyramids in Giza (YES, THOSE Pyramids) but had a panic attack on the way down - and had to clamber back through the people to get out.....   My sister still teases me about that - (she wishes she was STILL down there...)

I had visions of The Pyramids Attack Returning.   But it was ok! - literally jumping through "hoops" between sections, in the Submarine  it was a bit like how I would imagine the Tardis.   Lucas had a great time - questioning the Tour Guide...... haha......    I did slyly show the Tour Guide Lucas' "Card" - his response was adorable.   He said ... to be honest I think I guessed straight away with him, but thank you for telling me - and then he proceeded to discuss "guages and dials and pressure" all REALLY thrilling stuff... with Lucas... they both seemed to be having a great time!

So! dear Blogland - we  had a great weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Did You?

Love from us all xxx

Scary Parent 1 - Teacher 0 - ;-)

First Official Meeting with PSW and Headmistress at New School - it lasted nearly 2 hours!

I said alot of things! - I even took 2 pages of typed up notes with me, I took no prisoners.   I got results!

I had a great chat with the Headmistress and our PSW and both agree that this consequence was far too rash, and that Lucas would probably get them every week at this rate.  

I have voiced my opinions STRONGLY - and am quite proud of myself - to the point that I may have to apologise to the Headmistress for being too Head Strong!   I ironed out some issues - and needed a stiff drink afterwards!

OK Men - We're Going In....

Hello Blogland!

Last week was the week that the "New School Problems!" showed their ugly heads - Blogland, we knew they were coming, and... shock horror! - I even think I was prepared!! - and today - we are going in for attack.

Last night we had a Parents Evening.   Last night a Teacher Bombarded Us with information - and also explained this WONDERFUL new Behaviour system that the Children all Love! - its so GREAT (teacher words) - and so far only one child has had a consequence........ - its wonderful.....

Last week  Lucas got a "consequence!" - so..... Lucas is that child! - great!!! - (note to self NOT happy...)

After the meeting - I calmly (HONESTLY!!) went up to Lucas' teacher - and said.....  SO..... what did he get his consequence for?  As he cannot remember.....    I found out last night - Lucas got his consequence for laughing at another child's comment.  Apparently he had been warned before.   I want to know if Lucas' New Teacher is aware he has ASD Aspergers - I think this was not acceptable.   This is clearly down to his ASD Traits and he has been punished for it.   Action is being taken.  

Dont get me wrong, new readers - I KNOW Lucas can be naughty - but I also think this is going a bit too far, especially as the Teachers are meant to be aware of his condition - they cannot beat it out of him!!! - they have to accept it and move on!

It has backfired slightly on the Teachers by giving Lucas the first consequence, all the "good boys" (who are really lovely) have been coming up to Lucas asking "what happens?" "what did you have to do?" - and he has sweetly and honestly replied, "I can't tell you, you have to find out yourselves".  I thought this was adorable.   One of the good boys is going to try and help Lucas earn a Priveledge this week too.

On a wonderfully POSITIVE note, we heard that all the children had a spelling test - of 100 words.   We were told NOT to expect brilliant results - as they were only Year 3 children.   I came home and found Lucas' Test - 81 out of 100 - and 2 errors were witch instead of which and their instead of there - SO..... Lucas made me very proud yesterday.

Today at 2.30pm I have the first of many Meetings with my PSW - and I have been informed that the Headmistress would like to Join our Meeting.    How do I feel about this?   Perfect! - Excellent!!! - I have my notes ready!!!

Ok men.... we are ready!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Time Check - 12.43
Meeting Time - 2.30pm


Aim?   GET LUCAS OFF THE SILLY "WONDERFUL" BEHAVIOUR SCHEME.- or at least give him a fighting chance!

When do I tell him? - WHAT do I say?

Hello Blogland

Welcome to a deep and meaningful post - please feel free to"back away from the blog" - haha.... but I have a buzzing problem - buzzing round my brain, and my brain is too tired to flick it away...

Lucas has been going through the "New School Process!" and in hindsight - he has coped with it much easier than I have.   Lucas has "grown up" a bit this week.  He is 7, will be 8 at Christmas.

Here is my dilemma - and I would be very grateful for people's comments and views here, this is a genuine request for comments and feedback - (thanks for reading).

When do I tell him about his ASD Aspergers Condition?  How do I tell him?  Does he already know?   He already knows he has a special card for Queue Jumping, he has written about this in his School work, much to my surprise.

The reason it has come to a head now, is I have noted alot of children have "grown" over the summer holidays, and Lucas came home saying "A Child" teased me about my name... (part of his surname is Price), the child asked how much could he pay for him?   Lucas did not understand the joke.


Literal Thinking Strikes and Scores! - Literally!! - I just said, if they say it again, just say - "Oh I am too expensive..." - nothing - no reaction at all - my exceptionally bright little boy did NOT understand the irony.  

SO... is this a hint?  Is now the time to have a talk?   What do I say???  I am armed with a great picture book (All Cats Have Aspergers) is now the time to read it with him?

Can someone lend me a fly swat???

What an amazing difference!!!

New School - Day Two....

The scary pick up time arrived...

Lucas met me half-way up the path! and we walked hand in hand back to the car!   One small step for man - one MASSIVE step for Me and Lucas!!!!

Progress!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - he is currently devouring 3 scoops of icecream as a reward!

Tennis lesson in 10 minutes...............

Bye for now!

New School Day

Hi Everyone

Thank you to my friends for the good luck for his first day wishes - he really liked these :)

Ok... so! - how did the day go?  I hear you ask... It was not the perfect day - but I really did NOT expect it!

The Morning was lovely, everything went smoothly we had a nice breakfast with omelettes and yohurt drinks, Lucas looked really smart in his new uniform, we even took lots of photos, and had time to spare to chat about the day.

We have strict instructions that School starts at 8.55 - but no children must arrive before 8.45 - so - we parked the car at 8.40! - please note - we were EARLY on the first day! - brownie points please!!!

Lots of people were crowding around the gates and a stream of people were also walking towards Lucas' classroom - through the playground, so we joined the stream.

Lucas' Headmistress was individually welcoming everyone into their classroom - which I thought was lovely - and then Lucas dissappeared! - Bye Then!!!

I was assured he would be fine - and was sent on my way....

I found Nicky outside the gates with Louise (another Louise) so we had a really long catch up chat -  note comparing chat - it was about 1 hour and a half long - but it was lovely to catch up - Louise said she went to the Olympics Athletics so we all spoke about the Olympics - they both asked if I managed to get to the Tennis and meet my friend? - I said Yes :-)  - so I was able to share my Tennis Day with them - and show them pictures too - I calmly said - oh, and this is my friend, - this is what he looks like.... (showed them the pic below) - their reactions??

Priceless!!! - "Oh Wow!!!!" etc and lots of various other "female comments :-)"

It was nice to catch up - Louise nearly saw Usain Bolt but she had to leave early, but she said her day was magnificent too.

We also discussed the Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon too - Nicky's Oldest Son is in the Navy and he was stationed at Greenwich Park working the Equestian and MP events - she said he had the best time ever! - of course we did not see him when we went - but that was a great venue.

The Olympics were our "Planned Family Holiday" - Louise went to Corfu - Nicky went to South of France.

So that was the morning - which was stressful - but ended lovely - chatting with my Coffee buddies.

I got home and fell asleep! - 3 hours later woke up and went to pick up Lucas.

I had major problems picking up Lucas at his previous school - these were finally sorted out with the help of his old teachers - I had sub-consciously forgotten about them...

They returned with vengence tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - (great!) - ok in hindsight - it was nice seeing him play with friends, but it was not nice to see Lucas turn into a monster as soon as I approached him or asked him to leave with me - these are all standard ASD traits, and I know this now (as I have been on lots of courses) - but Dear Blogland - it does really hurt when all the other children go up to their parents like little angelic lambs, and I get the Tasmanian Devil coming towards me at full power.

BUT I have been on the courses!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - I have the power to fight the ASD Trait (allegedly!) - I tried the 123 Magic! - of course it failed on me!

I tried yelling at him - in front of all the other new mums and dads - yep - they now have me labelled as a yeller (that failed too)

When we finally got out of the school grounds - he was still in Dr Jekyll Mode - so, I calmly said - I was going to take you to McDonalds as a treat after school for your first day - but you have been horrid - so we are not going now.  and I kept my word! - yes I felt mean, but I also felt hurt!

It worked!!! - shock horror surprise - 1 hour after getting home - Lucas came and apologised to me! - I am going to write it down.... oh I just have!

We then had a lovely evening - I have set some ground rules - Hopefully Lucas will take notice and realise I mean business - and maybe he will get a McDonalds Treat tomorrow!!!!

We shall see

Good Night Blogland!

New School Eve!

Hello Blogland

How are you?

Tonight - 3 September - is New School Eve.

Tomorrow is New School Day

Tomorrow is the day Lucas starts his new School.

I have major pre new school jitters.   Why?

This is a new page, a new start, a new adventure - new people for Lucas to get to know - new beginnings.... new problems....   new meeting schedules...

Lucas knew everyone at the old school - and everyone knew Lucas :-)
....

New school uniform - check
New school uniform returned due to being wrong size? - check!
(note to Lucas - PLEASE STOP GROWING!!!)  
New school uniform - named - check
New school uniform trousers altered and hemmed up?  gotta love sewing.... - check

New school haircut?  - check
New bags, New PE Kit, New Water Bottle, New Stuff - check check check check!

New School Child bathed and in bed fast asleep?  - check

Check list complete??? - yep - I think so - all set and ready to go.....

Survival Coffee Morning with Nicky booked? - CHECK!!!
.....

So.... its a New School!!  Tomorrow Morning.....

Wish us luck!!!

There will be photos....

Junior School here we come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

bye for now!

Friends Reunited!

A trip to The London Olympics 2012 Tennis Event - 29 July 2012 - 

FRIENDS REUNITED!

Hello Blogland!

Long time no type!!!! - In earlier messages I said I hoped to meet up with some Long Distance Friends in 2012 again .... 

IT HAPPENED!!! - IT REALLY HAPPENED!!! AND.... THERE ARE PHOTOS TO PROVE IT TOO!!!

Corinne Noetzli - THANK YOU! thank you for arranging for a ticket for me - this was wonderful - even the stressful adventure whether it would arrive in time from Switzerland was well worth the wait too - it was Part of the Adventure! - thank you - I Owe You!!! - next Planet Dreamland Event is on me - ok????

The Following Post will be now 100% Tennis Related - YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!! - I'm BACK IN THE GAME!!!

Background Info - I ran a Tennis Fan Site and a group of Us would meet up at various tournaments and have lots of fun - We mainly follow Argentine Tennis Players, because they are really nice and really friendly and a great bunch of Athletes - I have followed one for over 12 years now - I used to run a Fan Site for him - he retired :-( -  he changed direction and became a big TV Star instead - :-)  - he still is a TV Star and NOW he is also joint Davis Cup Captain and London Olympic 2012 Captain too :-) - a very busy man!!! - the last time I saw him was October 2008 - wow that was a long time ago!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 

-- - this is now similar to my Facebook Note - but I have made lots of changes - read on!

So... I had a really amazing day at the London Olympics - it may have been located at Wimbledon, but it definitely was not a typical day at Wimbledon! - the atmosphere was amazing - even in the rain. - Yep it rained, it hailed, it rained, and thundered, and lighteninged (new word) BUT that did not stop Corina and Me having an incredible day.

It started by meeting Corina at the Practice courts at 10am - watching G Dulko and P Saurez, Corina decided she would ask "Someone in Team Argentina" if they knew what time Pico would be practicing.... so she did... "Someone" said (with a smile!) Noon!! he will be out at Noon!! - so that was good, we had 2 hours to chat and plan. I did ask Corina who she asked, she said "Oh that was... So and So...." ok, it looked like M Jaite to me, (DC Captain Major)  NO she said, it wasn't him.... it just looked like him..... Ok.... now... chat chat chat chat chat. 11.30am - the heavens OPENED!!!! it rained, it hailed, it lighteninged, it was really impressive weather!! - we were standing under a bridge watching.

Rain stopped, Marcus Baghdatis wandered about too much - dressed in CYP clothes always looking at first glance like a member of *Team Tandil - CYP clothes, blue, white and yellow.... Arg Clothes, blue, white yellow... 

After 10 Marcus B sightings, the "Real Thing" crossed the bridge - and the Planet Dreamland was back in business after a 4 year break - (but who's counting!) - The Sun also came out at that moment and it was great! - Pico crossed the bridge then too - of course, we were NOT stalking! honest!!! - but there is not much else to do at London Olympic Tennis at Wimbledon in the Rain except People Watch :)

Noon had been and gone (Thank You British Weather!!!) but the sun had come out, the Practice court covers had been removed - Fabio and Novak were playing their match on Court 1... which meant that the other Court 1 players were going to come out and practice soon.... they had to .... right??

Suddenly - Two Members of Team Tandil left the Locker Room and marched really focussedly towards Court 3! - they were on a mission!!!!!!!!!! - we did not get in their way..... (Court 3 was a closed Practice Court).  Corina went and checked that Yes, they were definitely in there - (Security Guards have their uses) - they had not sneaked out of the Grounds - they were in Closed Court 3 - SO we found a handy bench, and Corina took pictures of Maria Sharapova.

Lleyton Hewitt flew by, a few people tried to stop him, but he said he was "focussed", but still did some signing infront of us.

We decided then, after watching this, that we would just wish Team Tandil Good Luck, as they would be "focussed" too.

Team Tandil came out of Practice.... I went up to Pico - and Corina stopped Mariano - I really wanted to congratulate Pico for Hamberg and Top 10!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - mission accomplished..... Then.... I think I had the best 10 minutes of my life at Tennis Tournaments.....

 {{{{{{{{THANK YOU}}}}}}}}}

It was a priceless, "Friends Reunited" moment - thank you.....

... they weren't "Focussed" at that moment, they were two extremely happy Olympians :)

‎.... tea break .... food break ...... - then the Heavens Opened again - and it rained solidly until 6pm

 Pico's match was cancelled - but the Doubles Match against the China Girls was completed in the evening. So we went to watch this. I took pictures! - Marcus (my Marcus) prepared the camera and I was ordered to take lots of pictures.... (but it rained!!!) so I took Pictures. 

It was REALLY hard to take photos (of the Players Playing!!!!!!!!!) with Mariano opposite me - but I managed, I think I got some really good results.

We had the opportunity to say goodbye to him after the match - and we met Martin Jaite - we were having a formal introduction - and he said with a smile, yes, we met this morning, they were asking about practice sessions :) :) - we confessed we needed "Information" it was the perfect end to a perfect day. - Oh yes.... we even managed to get into see the last few games of Djokovic v Fabio too. - THEN my camera battery died.

That was my day - THANK YOU to everyone - Birte I am so pleased we got to spend more time this time together!!! - and it was also lovely to see Alina Jidkova again - Don, she is coaching for Russia now :)

Mariano - it was so great to see you again after such a long time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - great to have you back in Tennis Land - You did tell me we would see each other again somewhere in at Tennis Tournament, somewhere in the World again - I did not expect it to be London 2012 Olympics!!!!!!!!!! - it was a wonderful day.

THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU ;-) Mr Bronze Medal Team Captain.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

*Team Tandil - Mariano Zabaleta (Captain), Pico Monaco, Juan Martin Del Potro (Bronze Medal Winner 2012), Maximo Gonzalez and Diego Junqueira - they all come from the same town, and 2 of them are Top Ten Players too) - and I apologise if I have missed anyone out.   

Lucas and his Tennis Lessons

Lucas loves his tennis lessons with Mel.

He has 1-1 twice a week Mondays and Wednesdays - 45 minutes each lesson.   This is his "time".  He really loves his lessons.  It is great seeing him do something he really enjoys! - I am not a pushy parent, he does really enjoy his time with Mel - and it shows!

Lucas has big problems at School with PE as it is "Group Work", and there is lots of distractions and this is still a major weak area at School, but when he is with Mel, the weakness is a strength, as 1-1 always works best with him.   Mel also works on his fitness, she is his "Personal Trainer"   Mel Rules!  We love Mel.... :-)

A small group of children always have a lesson straight after Lucas' on Monday (I think they are one of the Mini Tennis Squads) - and Lucas has been bonding with these children for a few months now, Mel has been encouraging me to let him stay and do their Warm-Up exercise with them - and next Monday Lucas will be joining their Squad for the full Session.   This is a massive step for Lucas.  This is "Joining a Group" but Mel has done lots of preparation and ground work, and it is only a little Group, and there is a Lucas 2 in the Group too...  Of course, 1-1 lessons will still continue! but, this small step could be a big one! 

Wish us luck!

Best wishes to all

A Helping Hand

Hello everyone, I thought I would write a quick note about 2 very useful Visual Aids I have and if any fellow UK ASD Parents read this and do not have them, I recommend them to them.

Since Lucas' Diagnosis, I was advised to apply for a HAND Card, and this is fantastic, it allows discounted child access and free carer access to lots places and in some Theme Parks it also allows Queue Jumping and  gives a "Made to Feel Very Special" status to your child too.  Legoland is fantastic, it has a policy for "Children who cannot queue" and   Many places have extra conditions attached too (bring your DLA letter with you etc) but the majority of places accept them and help make your day a fun one.    Butterly Steam Rail Centre was awesome! - especially when my little Train Enthusiast was taken to meet the Driver - a little dream came true...

The card also helps as a major Visual Support (wow I have been going to TOO MANY COURSES! I am using "Buzz Words" and Phrases automatically now..) when you have a Problem with a "well meaning Member of Public"... one flash of these cards and suddenly "The Busy Body" is your new best friend....

I get very flustered and tongue-tied when under stress, but have found that "one flash of the cards" and my problems get smaller.... they are worth it.

These are the 2 cards that I "won't leave home without"

The 2nd card is just as brilliant - and you can buy these from the National Autistic Society for £2.50 for 50.

It says:

-------------------------------------------------------

"This person has Aspergers Symdrome

* Asperger Syndrome is a lifelong disability that affects social and communication skills

* People with AS may behave unpredictably as a result of their difficulty understanding body language and social skills

*  People with AS are likely to be extremely anxious in unfamiliar situations

*  Please help by being understanding, patient and tolerant

For further information contact The Autism Helpline 0845 0704004 or www.autism.org.uk - it also has the official Logo too

---------------------------------------------------------
a very handy Visual Aid!

I hope this post has been helpful - as these two small pieces of card are very helpful for me.

Best wishes to all

A very busy day...

Hello Blogland

How are you this fine Thursday?

I am writing this at 16.03 - in between meetings.   I am having a mad meeting day!!

I am being overrun in School activities this week but there is light at the end of the tunnel.    Yesterday I went to my second Angels meeting.  This was actually really good - I was able to create some Visual Aids - flashcards with smiley faces and clock faces to (hopefully!) help with Lucas and his time keeping.   Realistically - I was in autopilot, just going through the motions.   Today - I have been in 100% autopilot - this is my day so far....

9.am - get Lucas to New School - as today is "New School Day" - all the New Pupils spent the morning at Lucas' New School - this was interesting as we had to get there before 9am and drop him off with his New Teacher - a practice run for September!

Result...   9.am - Lucas is sitting cross-legged in the Hall of his new School with all his friends.   He didn't even notice I had left him there.   A few other mums had tears in their eyes  

End of Meeting one.   Relatively Stress Free too!

Meeting 2 - was 2 hours long - it was the last week of The Parents of ASD Children Course.   This was a heavy meeting, quite deep and meaningful, it covered lots of very important areas, and included an in-depth conversations on both Bullying and Medication - which I was able to contribute to both.   My Snowball Anecdote for Bullying and the Melatonin is my BEST FRIEND FOREVER story for the medication.

Meeting 2 was very hard work - but... there was CAKE!! - yay! Chocolate Cake, and Some Nice Sponge Cake and a Warm Apple Flan - Cakes were worth it.

Meeting 2 ended and so did the Course - everyone promises to keep in touch with everyone else - and we all get a certificate.

Meeting 3 - Lucas' Support Worker Person - 1 hour 45 minutes! - another heavy meeting! - but this one also covered lots of areas.   She has been working with Lucas and told me how much she loved working with him - and how much of a charming lovely little boy he was - and yes I took the opportunity to ask her from a Layperson's view - what she really thought of his ASD.   She was able to confirm that he is definitely an ASD ADHD HF Child, but he is also very lovely and extremely clever - she was also able to tell me he was going to be a Train Driving Tennis Player that was going to Invent a Ball that always returned to him, so he can win lots of trophies.

Summary... a heavy meeting, very heavy meeting, but lots of loose ends have been tied, and also lots of new pointers are being prepared ready for his new school....

NEXT MEETING - 6PM - AT HIS NEW SCHOOL -

TO....... BE................  CONTINUED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

22:00 - Oh I am SO tired! - I am exhausted.  

The New School Meeting was my final meeting of the day - I met Lucas' new Teacher.  She seems very nice.  I told her about The Colour Purple, and how much this means to Lucas (the REAL COLOUR PURPLE! - not the Whoopii Goldberg film) - I also told her I am only down the Road if I am needed and I will be at the school faster than you can say - "Can I have a word....."

I spent half an hour looking round the School  feeling very small and confused - then we were ushered into the Big Hall for the Official Meeting of the Headmistress, and all the Teachers.   I listened intently to everything she said - and think I may have forgotten everything already.   It seems like it will be ok.   She drummed in the fact that they are all approachable, and - OH this is a scary time, I am sure Lucas will be fine.

I feel that now all the good things that were in place at his Old School have the potential to unravel - and it is my responsibility to make sure this does not happen.   And THIS is causing me to have a massive headache. STILL, I have done all the ground work now, all we can do is light that touch paper and watch the new chapter of Lucas' School Life take off!

(New School starts September 4 - Old School Ends July 20)

Thanks for READING!

Oh and Emily! - if you read this - thank your Mum for the chat afterwards!! - it was really appreciated - your Mum is worth her weight in Gold, but you know that already.... How is Lady Shasta?

The Olympic Flame!

Last Sunday "The Olympic Flame" was due to go through our Town, the runners were set to run 5 minutes walk away from our house.

We braved the rain and walked to the start.   We got there in perfect time, and chose the best place to stand! as the Parade Bus (that holds the Mother Flame) stopped right next to Lucas.   Lucas got to see the flame very closely and also got to see how the Film Crew and Interview People work as the Chosen Runner was also standing right next to Lucas - Lucas got a real "behind the scene" action view - he could have touched the torch! - but didn't.

Lucas was fascinated! and could not believe he had seen the Flame.   He is now really excited about the Olympics.... so we are going to try and take him to as many different events as we can.

We are really looking forward to seeing some old Friends again that are also coming to the Olympics.   Please can somebody bring the Sunshine!!! - Muchas Gracias!

A sense of Pride

Lucas has School Dinners.   I insist that he has school dinners as this teaches good manners and social skills - and the dinner ladies secretly watch to make sure all children eat their dinner and there is a safety net to make sure nobody goes hungry.  They have a very good system, and Lucas loves the Dinner Ladies.

Yesterday (Wednesday) Lucas was very proud of himself.   And, of course, I was very proud of him too.

Every week his School Headmistress has a "Top Table" on Wednesday Lunch times - and she invites 1 child from each class to join her at her table, based on their behaviour, and achievements from the past week - Lucas was chosen yesterday! - Wednesday.   He was very proud! - and, of course, he was very good at the table too.

A very proud Parent.

Today was Week 5 of The Course.    So, of course we had a Fire Alarm.  That was fun.
One more week to go......

After the course I dashed back across Town to meet My Coffee Buddy - we were determined... we were going to have our Coffee Afternoon - We went to a Village Tea Shop (which was VERY Ye Olde Englishe Tea Shoppee indeed...)  - bone china tea cups (all odd for the character!) and full of "Ladies that Lunch".  

SO... we thought... Oh Well - if you can't beat them... you must join them.... SO Today We were Officially
"Ladies that Lunch".... we will just have to dress and wear the Fascinators next time... :)

So, today has been hectic, but ended up with some Fun.

This week has been positive - (and yes... I am still that Proud Parent..... )

I went to the new group today.   This is the Group my doctor wanted me to join a year ago but I was too afraid to walk into the group on my own.

My friend from "The Course" said - "We will go together!!! United we Stand!" - so I said - Ok, we will.

I forgot today was Wednesday.   I forgot completely.

I did the school run! - we were late! - but I managed to sneak Lucas through the door as it was still open.   One teacher was really nice and we had a chat about Eczema - and the other Jobsworth Teacher came along and gave me a lecture.... (Teacher 1 kept catching my eye - saying "don't worry... its ok.... smile... behind Teacher 2's back - so this was quite amuzing).

It was a spur of the moment decision.

Then I saw my Coffee Buddy and we arranged our Coffee Afternoon to put the world to rights.... the one we cancelled yesterday...

I was just confirming - when from the Other Side of the Road - a voice showed "YOU OK FOR TODAY?????" - it was my Group friend....   That Rock and Hard place really pops up at an awkward time...   Luckily, very very luckily, Coffee Buddy said - Yes! she is! she will be there! - (who's side are you on? I am just about to stich you up again!!!) - She said - Coffee THURSDAY....

SO... long story even longer - can you tell I ramble-type alot?

I went to the Scary Group with my Course Friend.

WE GOT THROUGH THE DOORS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And it turned out My Course Friend knew a few people there.

OK.... Louise's assessment of the Group.

It is a very useful Group.
It is well run and very well organised.
The Group People know seem to know what they are talking about 
People in the Group have been going for over 8 years!!!!!!!!!!!
Some People in the Group made me feel very humble 


Note to self - stop it - you have every right to be in that Group - Your Doctor and Various Other People have been forcing you to go there.   Get OUT of De Nile! - that's a river in Egypt.   Go back next week and milk the Group for information and use it.


End of note to self.

It is Week 5 of - The Course - tomorrow.

End of Ramble-typing

A New Support Group

Today I went to a New Support Group meeting, with a friend.   It is the Group my PSW has been trying to get me to join - so mission accomplished - I did it today! - yay me!

Eczema Strikes Back!

Yesterday I defeated the Depression Gremlin! - yay - ok I managed to cram him into a cupboard and lock the door.   Hopefully he will stay away for a few days.   (thank you for your support).

This morning was a busy day for Lucas - he is in "School Transition" - Scary!!! - this means he is going up to his new school a lot this week to get to know his new teachers - and the days he doesn't go to his new school,  his new teachers come down to his school.  Its nice they are doing this - and they have also arranged extra sessions for Lucas and some other Spectrum Children, to make the transition fun for them

So far so good.... Lucas seems to be happy..... everything is fine!

This morning - I got Lucas ready for school - and he said - Mummmieeeee I am really itchy.....

The alarm bells started to ring, I looked at his chest, and he was covered in a rash - and spots too! - big spots.   I recognised the rash as Eczema, as he had this as a baby, and 3 year old, but this had disappeared.

This morning it returned.    My brain went into First Aid Overdrive..... of course the spots did not disappear when I ran a glass on them, I spent 20 minutes on hold to the Dr booking an appointment - I won a prize! - I won a 11.15am appointment!!

I took Lucas to school, we were already late, so I went straight to sign the Naughty Parents Late Book -and spoke to the HeadMistress too saying he had a Doctors Appt at 11.15.   She was great! - really understanding!!! - and also said, pick him up at his new School, he will be there ready for you.  

Had to cancel my Coffee Morning.... NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! - but Nicky was understanding, and then told me about the children she knew with Chicken Pox -  NO NO NO NO NOOOOOOOOO I don't want Chicken Pox!! - please just ezcema.... - we put in a good word for Ezcema.

Picked Lucas up from his new school to be... wow - that is one way to meet his new Headmistress - and she told me - take him back to his current school :) - its ok it is walking distance between them.

Lucas was very very very good waiting at the Doctors.   Luckily he only had to wait 2 or 3 minutes! - maybe they have flagged his notes?  Maybe - it would be nice to think so.  We were straight in.

The Nurse had a look at Spotty.

NO CHICKEN POX, NO Meningitus (phew) - "just spots" - but lots of Exzema errupting - has he got any life changing or worrying events coming up?  

Oh let me think...... HE IS CHANGING SCHOOLS - yep that's the trigger.

Now I have gallons of sludge emollion cream (it is really yucky) and some hydrocortizone cream too - I really do not like him having this.... but hey.

SO - that was my day.   Lucas was a little angel - itchy and scratchy but very lovely.

Coffee has been deferred to TOMORROW!

Thanks for reading!!!!

Attack of the Depression Gremlin!!!

Attack of the Depression Gremlin!!!!!!

Last night - about 9pm (Sunday) - I got attacked by the Depression Gremlin.   I think he may have been influenced by Harry Potter as it felt like I had an Invisibility Cloak wrapped round me so tightly I could not breathe!

He crept up behind me and got me by stealth.

He has sapped all my energy from me and filled my head with negative thoughts.  Its not nice - and (as at the time of typing he is still in control).

This morning I wiped my Facebook account, and then my Twitter account - both with tears freely falling, it is hard to explain, but this happened.   I also cut my friend off on Skype - how rude of me! - but I think she will understand.   I could not face anything, and proceeded to wipe clean everything online.  

Its quite a surreal experience, "clensing?" "spiritual?" anyway it was an experience - and this, my dear Blog is is what I did today.

I also had a Parent Support Meeting - which I decided not to go to.   I could not face it.   There was no point! - The Depression Gremlin was in control of me, so I cancelled the meeting, by text.   I felt unwell; mentally unwell.

Social Networking - a mathematical lesson.

I am addicted to Facebook.

There you go - I have admitted it - I should join a Group - maybe I should get Therapy.

The reason I am so addicted as it is a connection to all my friends.   It stops the loneliness of being a stay at home mum.

It is my choice to be a stay at home mum, but to be honest there is no choice I have to be one.   

Facebook allows me to keep in touch with all my long-lost friends.   I have dreams that I will meet up with them again - and I have goals to make sure these dreams are reality.

My American Friend is in China - and crazily now she is in China, thanks to Social Networking, we are in more communication that ever before - on a daily basis - its like virtual Starbucks when we chat.   Social Networking is a really amazing technology - one I admit I am 100% addicted to.

Sharing and RTing

Free Publicity Rules!   One small Click by Man, is one huge Click for Mankind.

Sharing and RTing is an amazing way of getting the message across and "spreading the word"

I only have 68 friends on FB (I need to protect Lucas' photos) and 16 Followers on Twitter (louiselp333) as after all there's no point following me - as I am usually lost too.

Sharing in my mind works as follows.

I share something with my 68 friends.   Some of my friends have 250+ followers (wow!) so if  just 1 of those share my share, the viewing of my item has increased to 300+ - and if one of those 250 followers also shares  - the viewing has increased to 750+ and wow if more than one of those friends shared - my head cant take the math... but hopefully you can see how one tiny click can literally "spread the word!"  a real ripple effect.

RTing with Twitter has the same effect - and wow some people have incredible following numbers.

Don't you just love the potential of Social Networking?   

The Ants are Spreading the word around!

Told you this was a ramble-post.

It is Middle Sunday at Wimbledon.   I am a tennis fan, and I live 25 minutes from London (1 hour 25 minutes from Wimbledon) - I would love to have seen some of the matches - but there is no way I am prepared to camp for 2 days to see a tennis match.   British Tradition has now made this "Queue" impossible.

The Olympics are coming to Wimbledon in 3 weeks - and I have seen the Player List - and all the players of interest will be back at SW19 and thanks to my WONDERFUL Swiss friend - I have a ticket too!!!!  

Thank you thank you thank you and I am counting the days to seeing you again.

End of Ramble Post.

Love and Best wishes

This weekend

Lucas has spent most of this weekend in LucasLand - but again, he has been happy.   What do I do?  I am caught between a rock and a hard place - if I drag him outside to "do something" to entertain him - he may get stroppy and cause a meltdown.

On the plus side - I saved a fortune! - I "could" have taken him to a Farm - but he just didn't want to go.  So we had a quiet weekend.

Lucas has been so HAPPY!

He did go to Sunday School this morning - we made sure of this - and he had a lovely time.   They all really make him welcome there.   I helped Gyzelle with making Coffee and Tea for the Congregation afterwards.

Lucas rejected all my offerings for dinner today - so I decided.... PIZZA!

Dominos Pizza have a good deal on at the moment.

I KNOW I don't score any points for Excellent Parenting for this weekend,    This weekend my motto - was "anything for a quiet life.." and it seems to have worked.

Raspberry Cane Count!

This week I have collected 4 bowls of Raspberries from my "Organically Wild canes" - I checked the price of Raspberries in Sainsburys - and to my horror - they are on "special offer"   £4 reducted to £2 for 225g!

SO - I have "saved" either £16 or £8 already on my Raspberries this week - and the canes are overflowing with berries.

Raspberry Sauce, Raspberry Muffins, Raspberry Jam - here we come...

Week 4 of "The Course"

I signed up for a Course - An ASD for Parents Guideance type of course.
It is a 6 week course - every Thursday for 2 hours.

Today was Week 4.   I missed Week 3 - bad me! - but Lucas had a meltdown.   I could not face it last week.

I went this week!  - I was a good girl!

This course, in my humble opinion, and only my opinion has been structured wrongly.   I think it should be 8 weeks long with 3 hours per session.   The "Instructors" are force-feeding us information and not giving us the opportunity to question it.   I feel it is a bit of a boot-camp.   I told a few people my feelings today - and was told, but they are volunteers, they need to cram all the info in, they care about us, one of them cried last week - so I shut up.   I think the course could have been structured more sensibly.  

We learned the 1 2 3 Magic technique today - google it!

"sarcasm tag on"    (its just common sense, but a Professor made money by writing a paper about it - she did say his name, but I darent put my hand up and ask again - as there is no time for questions!!!) "sarcasm tag off"  (sorry...)

I tried this new technique on Lucas.    Result?   He told ME - I have had 2 chances.... hmmm.... something wrong here!   Then when he reached the borderline, he looked at me and said.... "I love you mummy.... cute smile..."   I give up - I can't win can I?

Off to buy some ice-cream now.    I picked a bowl of raspberries from my canes.   They really need to go over some ice-cream.

Anyone want any?

Lucas spent the whole day in LucasLand today.

I woke up this morning ready for the usual battle to try and get Lucas through the School Door by 9am.   This is a Battle, there are various stages of the Battle that have to be fought daily, in order too - and to be honest, we are actually getting better, and the Battles are getting easier, and our name is NOT appearing as frequently as it used to in the Late Book - so... that is obviously Progress - Yay US!!! Yay!

This Morning? however, was a different matter.    Lucas was awake, Marcus heard him coughing, I started the morning battle, noting that the time was winning this morning... had to readjust my battle plan without trigging a meltdown...

Lucas then appeared by my side, quiet, listless, and pale..   Hmmm.... little voice said - "I was sick this morning.... "  Mummy voice then checked him over and then had a little lecture, asking for descriptions etc, was this a story? or was this true.   It was true. He had bright red ears too.

Lucas has spent the whole day on the sofa - in a lethargic state - in LucasLand! - I checked on him several times, and tried to play with him, but the shutters were down, and the laptop was open, he was in LucasLand.   He came out of LucasLand occasionally when he was hungry - as there is no McDonalds in LucasLand - but quickly went back.   He was happy.

He is having an early night tonight.   

He missed his tennis lesson - he was quite upset about this, but understood he was not well, and it would have been a wasted lesson as he had no energy today.    He will use twice as much energy  up on Monday.

I asked him what the weather was like in LucasLand today - he said nice and warm - with a cute smile :)

While he was in LucasLand I was able to watch Juan Monaco reach the 3rd Round at Wimbledon - a great match! - with 2 great commentators too - They really did call the match without any anecdotes about how wonderful they (the Commentators) were - and they stood up for Monaco when the Umpire got the rules wrong - A good match - a great result!! 

On balance - today was a good day - if a sick child day can be a good day.

Positive Thoughts

I am a firm believer that when one door closes another window opens - even if sometimes it takes a while for the window to open.

I also think you should take opportunities whenever possible.

I am more of a Just Do It - and see what happens than a "What If...person"   Sometimes this has had great results - others.... hmmm well, life would be boring if everyone was always sensible.  Right?

I am writing this article on Positivity - yet actually the (invisible) negative bird on my shoulder is making lots of noise.   Maybe if I keep typing he will be quiet.

Positive Aims for 2012

See all my long distance friends again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

How has this aim progressed?    We managed to reach Switzerland and Germany! (in France) (long distance friends...) and would love to reach Argentina and Hawaii! (via LA!) - it is June... we still have time for this target.

(disclaimer.... the above statement means we actually met some of our Swiss and German friends in France after a long spell not seeing them - we hope to repeat the exercise and see more Long Distance Friends soon too).

Best wishes to all.

Lucas

Lucas is my 7 year old ASD Angel... often with a dirty and cheeky face!! - he is a real boy.

Lucas has been diagnosed and labelled with ASD Apergers, High Functioning Autism - with a spoonful of ADHD thrown in too.   Just for good measure...

He plays tennis and has a great tennis teacher, Mel - her lessons will feature here alot! - She is his "personal trainer!" and she is a major part of his life.

Lucas has major problems with Group Work and PE at school is a weakness.   1 hour and 45 minutes with Mel every week is a major strengh - she rules!

Academically Lucas is a little Genius - so that is a good sign! - He had a Year 1 Report last year.    57 statements, each graded "W" (working towards target) "A" Achieved Target  "*" Excellent and Excelled Target - the average child in his class got about 6 or 7 stars.    Lucas got 47 *s - we counted.   We were very proud of him.

He has socially improved in many areas over the last year - since diagnosis, and his sleeping is now under control.   This is still under control and not "cured" as this will not be the case.  I know this will not be the case. Control is the key word here.  Keeping on Track.  Watching out for road blocks.   Life is full of care strategies.   Fun!

Lucas has also moved alot of his goal posts about too - he is showing alot more traits and features than before.

I spend my life attending meetings and Support Groups and Social Workers - all with the aim to "control and guide Lucas" to ensure he has the best of everything!

Lucas spends alot of time in Lucas Land.   Sometimes he lets me in, others he put up a NO ENTRY sign.   As long as he is safe and happy, then he can go to Lucas Land.

Some days I think - hey everything's ok! - what is the point of all this stress - we are all ok!

AND then Others......   That sledgehammer gets me on the side of the neck and I realise - OK Houston we do have a Problem.     Its a mental problem....   I am useless at mental problems.... My brain does not like them!!!

Emotions.   Everybody needs them.  But believe me, the silent ones can be deadly!

Lucas will be changing schools in September...... GREAT!! - Watch this space - this is where all the "incidents" will be noted.

I have gained inspiration by reading about Clay Marzo and watching his YouTube Videos - if he can make it to the top of his field, then there is hope for Lucas and his friends too.   Google him.

I try and live with a Positive Attitude.... but this often fails (you have been warned).

I try to live with the Glass Half Full  - it empties alot and often gets knocked over, and the milk also spills too.

SO.... dear new Blog - welcome to your new life - of receiving the Pressure I will be throwing at you - and acting as my valve, helping me refill the glass (White Zinfandel Rose preferred) - and saving my poor friends on Facebook's Statuses too.

Love and best wishes to all my readers! 

A New Home!

Hello Everyone

Welcome to my new blog.   My Old Blog (Diary of a Parent with an Aspergers Child - A rollercoaster ride) got swallowed up in Cyber Space - I think it is time to create a new one - so! - THANK YOU Dayna for the Link to here - and the "very helpful - "DO IT NOW!" nudge...." it looks like we are up and away again....