A lot of kids with autism have things that they do over and over again. Andrew does a lot of this! One thing that he is stuck on right now is his "jokes". In his speech therapy they have been working on pronouns like he is a boy. So, now Andrew will come up to me with a huge grin on his face and say to me, "Mommy is a boy. Mommy is a he." And then he will belly laugh! Then I say, "No, mommy is a she, a girl." More laughter!
I am thrilled that he is talking more and more. I am thrilled that there is eye contact. I am thrilled that we are seeing his sense of humor. But, Andrew really needs a new repitore of jokes! :) It's the same "jokes" in the same order, all the time.
It is very to break one of these modes. Because there is a reaction between him and me, he keeps up the routine. It's a way to have a bond with him that is not easy to come by. Now, it's come to a point where I need to decide if the "jokes" and the routine of them is becoming a hinderance to other things. The jokes can interfere with learning a new task. We have been trying to teach Andrew how to put the silverware away. But, in the middle of showing him where the forks go, he will start giggling and saying, " Mommy is a he!" So, is he still paying attention to the instruction or has he lost complete focus. This is hard for me. I don't want to stop the laughter and his interaction, but I do want to stop the ongoing, same joke routine. ugh...
I guess for now, I will just enjoy hearing and watching Andrew crack himself up with his jokes because I cherish every interaction we have together. The silverware can wait until tomorrow.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Friday, April 15, 2011
Step by step
I was trying to explain to my hairdresser the other day why it is difficult for Andrew to follow directions. It's not that he doesn't hear me or that he is being disobedient when he doesn't do what I ask him to do, it's that he doesn't understand fully what is being asked. There is a disconnect in his brain. Every task needs to be broken down into very simple and direct actions.
For example, if I say to Andrew, "Andrew, go over to the couch, pick up your things and bring them to mommy", he has to first figure out where he has to go. The couch. Which couch? Okay, I have to go to the couch in the tv room. Now, what things am I supposed to pick up. This or that? It's like Andrew's brain is on constant overload, just trying to sort out and filter what he is hearing. It's always a battle to get him to follow directions. But, we are getting better at giving him simple commands and Andrew is getting better at listening to exactly what he needs to do. Step by step; little by little we are seeing him grow. How exciting!
For example, if I say to Andrew, "Andrew, go over to the couch, pick up your things and bring them to mommy", he has to first figure out where he has to go. The couch. Which couch? Okay, I have to go to the couch in the tv room. Now, what things am I supposed to pick up. This or that? It's like Andrew's brain is on constant overload, just trying to sort out and filter what he is hearing. It's always a battle to get him to follow directions. But, we are getting better at giving him simple commands and Andrew is getting better at listening to exactly what he needs to do. Step by step; little by little we are seeing him grow. How exciting!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Some thoughts...
I went to a mom's conference a few weeks ago for a time of encouragement. I had fun with my friends that came with me and God did teach me some things of the heart. However, one of the workshops I attended left me feeling so discouraged. It was a workshop for moms with special needs kids. It was to be a time of encouragement, but it wasn't. In fact, I was little put out. The lady that gave the workshop was a mom of a special needs kid and she talked about very practical things that we could as moms to help make life easier. For example, packing the child's backpack the night before school. Really? Come on. I'm not meaning to bash this lady. She had very good intentions, but I wanted more!! There was nothing spiritual in this talk at all, either! I left feeling like I just wasted an hour of my day and thinking that I could do a better job. Those other moms that were there needed encouraging.
So, I have been thinking a lot about this and what I would do if I lead a workshop for moms with special needs kids. This is just a rough draft and thoughts that need a lot more processing, but here it is:
1. I would talk about how God designed our kids with a purpose. Psalm 139: 13-14 says, "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." What a wonderful thing for moms to know...that our kids were created by God. He knit them together and they are wonderfully made! God delighted in designing them!
2. God chose us as moms to be exactly what our kids need to help them grow and succeed. In Luke 1 an angel came Mary and told her that she was highly favored and that the Lord was with her. To be highly favored means that one is regarded with preferance and is privilged. I find great comfort in knowing that God prefered me over other women to be the mom for Andrew and that God is with me through every situation; good or bad.
3. We, as moms need to mourn the loss of dreams we have for our kid with special needs. I had big dreams for Andrew. I wanted him to have lots of friends, enjoy going on vacations, to play outside in the summer with the neighbors, to succeed in school. Andrew may do these things someday, but for now he doesn't. And, that's hard for me! I have on occasion written down these dreams and tucked them away. I hold on to them for him. And I also cry over them. I grieve for that loss right now. I think moms need ot know that this is OKAY! It's okay to want things for our kids and to dream big. But it's always okay to cry, be angry, hurt and mourn over those things that get lost because of the way our kids are.
4. Moms with special needs kids need support, whether that's through a church, friends, family or a support group. We can't do this alone. We need to vent and share what's going on in our kids' lives and in ours. Joni and Friends Family Retreats are a great way to find that support. These family camps are designed for the family as a whole and also allow time for moms to be in a small group to share our thoughts and feelings.
5. Parenting a child with special needs is not black and white. There is no right way to do something. We have to do what's right for our families. We absolutely can take someone's advice, but if it doesn't work, that's okay. We just keep trying until something does work.
These are just some of the thoughts that have been rattling around in my brain. I envision praying over of the moms, allowing them to share their story in a small group, sharing these things above and more. I want other moms to be encouraged and know that they are not alone in their journey.
So, I have been thinking a lot about this and what I would do if I lead a workshop for moms with special needs kids. This is just a rough draft and thoughts that need a lot more processing, but here it is:
1. I would talk about how God designed our kids with a purpose. Psalm 139: 13-14 says, "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." What a wonderful thing for moms to know...that our kids were created by God. He knit them together and they are wonderfully made! God delighted in designing them!
2. God chose us as moms to be exactly what our kids need to help them grow and succeed. In Luke 1 an angel came Mary and told her that she was highly favored and that the Lord was with her. To be highly favored means that one is regarded with preferance and is privilged. I find great comfort in knowing that God prefered me over other women to be the mom for Andrew and that God is with me through every situation; good or bad.
3. We, as moms need to mourn the loss of dreams we have for our kid with special needs. I had big dreams for Andrew. I wanted him to have lots of friends, enjoy going on vacations, to play outside in the summer with the neighbors, to succeed in school. Andrew may do these things someday, but for now he doesn't. And, that's hard for me! I have on occasion written down these dreams and tucked them away. I hold on to them for him. And I also cry over them. I grieve for that loss right now. I think moms need ot know that this is OKAY! It's okay to want things for our kids and to dream big. But it's always okay to cry, be angry, hurt and mourn over those things that get lost because of the way our kids are.
4. Moms with special needs kids need support, whether that's through a church, friends, family or a support group. We can't do this alone. We need to vent and share what's going on in our kids' lives and in ours. Joni and Friends Family Retreats are a great way to find that support. These family camps are designed for the family as a whole and also allow time for moms to be in a small group to share our thoughts and feelings.
5. Parenting a child with special needs is not black and white. There is no right way to do something. We have to do what's right for our families. We absolutely can take someone's advice, but if it doesn't work, that's okay. We just keep trying until something does work.
These are just some of the thoughts that have been rattling around in my brain. I envision praying over of the moms, allowing them to share their story in a small group, sharing these things above and more. I want other moms to be encouraged and know that they are not alone in their journey.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Sensitive
A lot of kids with autism tend to have some form of sensitivity. Some of Andrew's sensitivity is towards babies crying and music from a radio or CD. We went to Indy over spring break for a few days. While there, we went to the Children's Museum. Andrew likes to go to the same exhibits every time like the trains, the carousel and the science spectrum. Of course, these are the most popular with lots of people. He is just fine there, until he hears a baby cry. Then, he just stops what he's doing and puts his hands over his ears and tells me, "Baby happy!!". I try to distract him, but sometimes it is too much and he bursts into tears.
Andrew loves music...on his terms! Eric takes Andrew every Sunday morning to hear the worship band practice for the next service. Andrew loves it! He loves going to church to hear "the guitars". The worship team is great in letting Andrew run around and yell out "Rock on!" and "Rock Stars!" However, when we get to the van, I can not have the radio on. If it's on, Andrew will put his hands over his ears and yell, "Radio off!" And, if I'm not fast enough, it can turn into a complete meltdown of crying and kicking the seats.
I wish I knew why these two things bother him so much! It is one of many questions I would love to have an answer for. I would love for Andrew to be able to tell me why certain things are so hard. Maybe someday, but for now, I'll just to avoid those things. With a new cousin on the way at the end of summer, he may just have to learn to adjust, because I am definitely going to be holding that baby!
Andrew loves music...on his terms! Eric takes Andrew every Sunday morning to hear the worship band practice for the next service. Andrew loves it! He loves going to church to hear "the guitars". The worship team is great in letting Andrew run around and yell out "Rock on!" and "Rock Stars!" However, when we get to the van, I can not have the radio on. If it's on, Andrew will put his hands over his ears and yell, "Radio off!" And, if I'm not fast enough, it can turn into a complete meltdown of crying and kicking the seats.
I wish I knew why these two things bother him so much! It is one of many questions I would love to have an answer for. I would love for Andrew to be able to tell me why certain things are so hard. Maybe someday, but for now, I'll just to avoid those things. With a new cousin on the way at the end of summer, he may just have to learn to adjust, because I am definitely going to be holding that baby!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Andrew's Day
We try to put Andrew to bed around 8:00 every night. We do this because he is an early riser, like anywhere between 5:00 - 6:00 AM! There are some nights he doesn't actually fall asleep until 9:30pm because he's talking, or singing or tapping on the wall. That was last night. But, he was still up at 6:15am this morning! A lot of kids with austism have trouble sleeping. Andrew doesn't wake up at night, but he doesn't sleep long... at least for mom!
So, this morning, just like we always do, we took his "stuff" (blankets, bears, and Larry the Cucumber) to momma's bed and laid down for another 10 minutes or so. Then, we came downstairs and I made Andrew's breakfast. Every morning, he has the same breakfast - waffle and sausages. A blueberry frozen waffle and two saugage links. It never fails.
We had to leave the house around 8:00am to get Jarod to day camp, so that meant Andrew needed to get dressed. We got Andrew dressed and his flip flops. He loves his flip flops! It could be 20 below zero and he will ask to wear his flip flops! If it is that cold, I won't let him, but most of the time it's fine, like today. As soon as we got home, the clothes came off and the pajamas were back on! He loves his comfy clothes!
The rest of today has been filled with playing on the computer, playing with his trains and me trying to get him to interact with me. He will ask me for food or if he needs something, but pretty much resists if I try to initate "play". It's hard some days, but I'm happy with any kind of response from him! He did help me peel wallpaper (which he started in the first place and is why we now have a big project inthe Hansen house!)when I asked, so it's been a good day!
I'm off to get him some ham...his favorite snack.
So, this morning, just like we always do, we took his "stuff" (blankets, bears, and Larry the Cucumber) to momma's bed and laid down for another 10 minutes or so. Then, we came downstairs and I made Andrew's breakfast. Every morning, he has the same breakfast - waffle and sausages. A blueberry frozen waffle and two saugage links. It never fails.
We had to leave the house around 8:00am to get Jarod to day camp, so that meant Andrew needed to get dressed. We got Andrew dressed and his flip flops. He loves his flip flops! It could be 20 below zero and he will ask to wear his flip flops! If it is that cold, I won't let him, but most of the time it's fine, like today. As soon as we got home, the clothes came off and the pajamas were back on! He loves his comfy clothes!
The rest of today has been filled with playing on the computer, playing with his trains and me trying to get him to interact with me. He will ask me for food or if he needs something, but pretty much resists if I try to initate "play". It's hard some days, but I'm happy with any kind of response from him! He did help me peel wallpaper (which he started in the first place and is why we now have a big project inthe Hansen house!)when I asked, so it's been a good day!
I'm off to get him some ham...his favorite snack.
Monday, April 4, 2011
April is autism awareness month!
I am hoping that I can shed a little light into the world of autism by sharing our life this month.
Andrew loves Wheel of Fortune! He loves to play it on the computer and "play" it on the kitchen table. He has several puzzles memorized and will randomly quote one throughout the day like "highly recommended walking tour". Then he will joke with us by saying the wrong word or change the name of the person playing. he will just giggle and giggle!
Wheel of Fortune is colorful and repetitive. I think that's one reason why Andrew loves it! He also loves the spinning of the wheel.
it's a great way for Andrew and me to play together, which is difficult for him.
So, yay for Wheel of Fortune!
Andrew loves Wheel of Fortune! He loves to play it on the computer and "play" it on the kitchen table. He has several puzzles memorized and will randomly quote one throughout the day like "highly recommended walking tour". Then he will joke with us by saying the wrong word or change the name of the person playing. he will just giggle and giggle!
Wheel of Fortune is colorful and repetitive. I think that's one reason why Andrew loves it! He also loves the spinning of the wheel.
it's a great way for Andrew and me to play together, which is difficult for him.
So, yay for Wheel of Fortune!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Friday's 5
1. Jarod played Wildcat Baseball this summer for the first time. He enjoyed for the most part. There were some tears the last day from hurt feelings (and mama too), but I'm thankful that Jarod still wants to play again next summer. I'm also thankful for the opportunity to talk with Jarod about character through the hard times.
2. Andrew has finsihed with summer school. I am thankful for great aides and teachers that were with him this month. This was his last summer for this specific program. My boy is growing up!
3. Today, we had nothing on the calendar! The boys and I stayed in our pajamas until about 10am, then went to the library and the grocery store. After lunch, we went to Huntington to visit with Grandma and Granpa Hansen. It was a great day! I'm thankful that we could do all of those things without having to race back home for the next "event" on the calendar!
4. I am thankful for some "cooler" weather. It hasn't been so humid and sticky and I am very thankful for that!
5. I'm so thankful for a husband who brought home dinner tonight so I didn't have to cook.
2. Andrew has finsihed with summer school. I am thankful for great aides and teachers that were with him this month. This was his last summer for this specific program. My boy is growing up!
3. Today, we had nothing on the calendar! The boys and I stayed in our pajamas until about 10am, then went to the library and the grocery store. After lunch, we went to Huntington to visit with Grandma and Granpa Hansen. It was a great day! I'm thankful that we could do all of those things without having to race back home for the next "event" on the calendar!
4. I am thankful for some "cooler" weather. It hasn't been so humid and sticky and I am very thankful for that!
5. I'm so thankful for a husband who brought home dinner tonight so I didn't have to cook.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
my 5 on Sunday
1. I am thankful for a successful garage sale and that it is over. We sold a lot of things and then took the rest to Goodwill. I have never done a garage sale before. It was a lot of work. But, I'm glad I did it. I'm not sure I wlll do it again, though.
2. I am thankful we had the privalege of a good eye doctor for almost 10 years. Dr. Dykstra passed away a few weeks ago. He was patient with both my boys, but especially with Andrew. He also had a son named Andrew and so I think he was fond of my Andrew. Dr. Dykstra will be missed by our family. Now, we need to find anotehr dr. I know God will lead us to the right one.
3. Eric and Jarod were at Scout Camp this last week. Jarod came home a night early because of storms. I am thankful for the neighbor who graciously brought Jarod home. They all had a great time.
4. I'm thankful for wonderful worship this morning at church.
5. I'm thankful for an opportuntiy to do a little babysitting this school year. All the details still need to be worked out, but I'm excited!
2. I am thankful we had the privalege of a good eye doctor for almost 10 years. Dr. Dykstra passed away a few weeks ago. He was patient with both my boys, but especially with Andrew. He also had a son named Andrew and so I think he was fond of my Andrew. Dr. Dykstra will be missed by our family. Now, we need to find anotehr dr. I know God will lead us to the right one.
3. Eric and Jarod were at Scout Camp this last week. Jarod came home a night early because of storms. I am thankful for the neighbor who graciously brought Jarod home. They all had a great time.
4. I'm thankful for wonderful worship this morning at church.
5. I'm thankful for an opportuntiy to do a little babysitting this school year. All the details still need to be worked out, but I'm excited!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Five on Friday
1. I am thankful for a wonderful visit with my roommate from college. We had a great time laughing and shopping. I wish we lived closer!
2. I am thankful that we found a gluten free pizza crust that Drew will eat. We started him on the gluten free diet to see if it would help his attention, especially with starting first grade! Pizza is his favorite and I hated to take that away. Thanks to Whole Foods in Indy, we found some crust that is actually pretty tasty!
3. I had a great time last night catching up with a friend who is going through a lot of transitions in her life. I'm so thankful for her friendship!
4. Andrew is talking more and more to us, not just random thoughts. The other day we went to Meijer on Lima rd. He saw Burger King and wanted to go. I said no at first and then Andrew said, "Meijer first, then Burger King." How can a mom say no to that!
5. Andrew is doing pretty well in summer school. It really helps him when school starts in a few short weeks. I'm thankful for the teachers and aides that are there working with him!
2. I am thankful that we found a gluten free pizza crust that Drew will eat. We started him on the gluten free diet to see if it would help his attention, especially with starting first grade! Pizza is his favorite and I hated to take that away. Thanks to Whole Foods in Indy, we found some crust that is actually pretty tasty!
3. I had a great time last night catching up with a friend who is going through a lot of transitions in her life. I'm so thankful for her friendship!
4. Andrew is talking more and more to us, not just random thoughts. The other day we went to Meijer on Lima rd. He saw Burger King and wanted to go. I said no at first and then Andrew said, "Meijer first, then Burger King." How can a mom say no to that!
5. Andrew is doing pretty well in summer school. It really helps him when school starts in a few short weeks. I'm thankful for the teachers and aides that are there working with him!
Friday, July 9, 2010
Five on Friday
I am needing a thankfulness moment in the midst of a very whiny child!
1. I am thankful for good friends who let us just hang out with them over the weekend. The boys had a great time swimming and watching movies. Thanks Billman's!
2. I am thankful that we have AC in our house. I have some friends that don't.
3. I'm thankful that my BFF arrived safely in PNG. I miss her so much already!
4. I have decided not to cook dinner tonight. I am thankful that my husband will be okay with that!
5. I am thankful that God knows what is happening in my little man's brain this afternoon because I sure don't!
1. I am thankful for good friends who let us just hang out with them over the weekend. The boys had a great time swimming and watching movies. Thanks Billman's!
2. I am thankful that we have AC in our house. I have some friends that don't.
3. I'm thankful that my BFF arrived safely in PNG. I miss her so much already!
4. I have decided not to cook dinner tonight. I am thankful that my husband will be okay with that!
5. I am thankful that God knows what is happening in my little man's brain this afternoon because I sure don't!
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Joni and Friends Retreat
I am so blessed! My family and I were able to attend Joni and Friends (JAF) retreat last week in Michigan. It is a retreat for families with special needs. My friend, Mary has been wanting us to go for so long and we finally felt that were able to go. I am so glad we went!
I wasn't sure what to expect at all. Mary had given me an idea, but I couldn't wrap my mind around it.
When we got to camp, (at the beautiful Marantha Bible Camp) we were greeted by a group of people who just gave us hugs and welcomed us to retreat. Then we walked into the main lodge where we were welcomed by two lines of people who clapped and "whooped" as we walked through. I was overwhelmed. I consider myself a people person, but there were so many people there who just wanted to love on us. I got pretty emotional.
We then met our STM (short term missionary) who is there to be a helper for Drew throughout the week. Joey was great. He was laid back and fit right in with our family. Joey ate with us at every meal and if the boys got squirmy, Joey would take them to the playground and let Eric and I finish our meal. How cool is that!?
After all the people, I was ready to find our room and just relax. When we found out that we had a two bedroom/two bath apartment, I was thrilled. I am not sure how we ended up with such a great place! On our table in the apartment, was a bag with gifts for all of us. How they knew what we all liked was just a God thing. Jarod was exited that he got his room for the week!
In the evening, we enjoyed seeing all the other families gather for worship and fun. I was overwhelmed knowing that Andrew could just be himself there. He could stand on the pew, sway back and forth, giggle and worship in his way. And, no one stared. I didn't feel pressured to have to make him sit. It was OKAY! This was the way church should be.
After worship was an icecream social. The boys were so excited to see a miniature golf course on the property. They had a ball.
The next three mronings were filled with worship, teaching and small group time for the parents. The woman in my group were perfectly placed for the week. We all have children on the autism spectrum. We laughed, cried, shared and prayed together. What a blessing they are! We are now facebook friends and can continue to encourage each other.
During the parents tme, the kids went to their own "class time". It was more like a cool VBS program. Joey went with Andrew and Jarod was with other kids his age.
In the afternoon, we had family time. Andrew went ot the pool everyday! It was heated and most times, he had it to himself! It was a little chilly most of the week. Jarod tried rock climbing, the zip line and swimming. Those were his favorite things!
Tuesday evening we had a western night. JAF brought in farm animals for the families to pet and just have fun with. Then we had a square dance! The boys weren't too into it, but that was OKAY! Andrew was impressed with the fiddle player, however!
Wednesday night the parents had a date night! We had a wonderful dinner of prime rib! The kids went to a carnval while we dined and walked along the beach.
THursday night was talent night. There were so many people that participated. Kids and adults with down syndrome, CP, autism and non-disabilities all had great gifts to share. Jarod even shared some magic tricks. We were very proud of our usually very anxious and shy 9 year old!
Eric summed up the trip well by saying, "We can go to Pokagon or camp ground and do the same kind of things, but we won't get our needs met as parents and as a family." I think we might want to go again next year!
Here are some pics:
I wasn't sure what to expect at all. Mary had given me an idea, but I couldn't wrap my mind around it.
When we got to camp, (at the beautiful Marantha Bible Camp) we were greeted by a group of people who just gave us hugs and welcomed us to retreat. Then we walked into the main lodge where we were welcomed by two lines of people who clapped and "whooped" as we walked through. I was overwhelmed. I consider myself a people person, but there were so many people there who just wanted to love on us. I got pretty emotional.
We then met our STM (short term missionary) who is there to be a helper for Drew throughout the week. Joey was great. He was laid back and fit right in with our family. Joey ate with us at every meal and if the boys got squirmy, Joey would take them to the playground and let Eric and I finish our meal. How cool is that!?
After all the people, I was ready to find our room and just relax. When we found out that we had a two bedroom/two bath apartment, I was thrilled. I am not sure how we ended up with such a great place! On our table in the apartment, was a bag with gifts for all of us. How they knew what we all liked was just a God thing. Jarod was exited that he got his room for the week!
In the evening, we enjoyed seeing all the other families gather for worship and fun. I was overwhelmed knowing that Andrew could just be himself there. He could stand on the pew, sway back and forth, giggle and worship in his way. And, no one stared. I didn't feel pressured to have to make him sit. It was OKAY! This was the way church should be.
After worship was an icecream social. The boys were so excited to see a miniature golf course on the property. They had a ball.
The next three mronings were filled with worship, teaching and small group time for the parents. The woman in my group were perfectly placed for the week. We all have children on the autism spectrum. We laughed, cried, shared and prayed together. What a blessing they are! We are now facebook friends and can continue to encourage each other.
During the parents tme, the kids went to their own "class time". It was more like a cool VBS program. Joey went with Andrew and Jarod was with other kids his age.
In the afternoon, we had family time. Andrew went ot the pool everyday! It was heated and most times, he had it to himself! It was a little chilly most of the week. Jarod tried rock climbing, the zip line and swimming. Those were his favorite things!
Tuesday evening we had a western night. JAF brought in farm animals for the families to pet and just have fun with. Then we had a square dance! The boys weren't too into it, but that was OKAY! Andrew was impressed with the fiddle player, however!
Wednesday night the parents had a date night! We had a wonderful dinner of prime rib! The kids went to a carnval while we dined and walked along the beach.
THursday night was talent night. There were so many people that participated. Kids and adults with down syndrome, CP, autism and non-disabilities all had great gifts to share. Jarod even shared some magic tricks. We were very proud of our usually very anxious and shy 9 year old!
Eric summed up the trip well by saying, "We can go to Pokagon or camp ground and do the same kind of things, but we won't get our needs met as parents and as a family." I think we might want to go again next year!
Here are some pics:
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
The kindness of strangers
This morning Drew and i went to Glenbrook Mall to get some scrapbooking paper. We went to the "paper" store and looked around. Drew was jumping around and not interested in staying with me at all. So, we went the bathroom and then went to his favorite elevator -the glass elevator where he can see out. We then walked to the carousel. The lady that runs it during the day is so good with kids. She let me on with Drew without having to pay and spoke to Drew with such kindness. He loves riding the carousel and talking about all the colors he sees.
After the ride, we rode back up the favorite elevator and went back to the paper store. The associate that helped me was so kind in talking with Drew and helping to keep an eye on him while I looked for paper. She had no problem with him yelling in the store and singing at the top of his lungs.
I'm so thankful for these two women who made a mom (who gets weary many days), have a delightful morning with my son!
After the ride, we rode back up the favorite elevator and went back to the paper store. The associate that helped me was so kind in talking with Drew and helping to keep an eye on him while I looked for paper. She had no problem with him yelling in the store and singing at the top of his lungs.
I'm so thankful for these two women who made a mom (who gets weary many days), have a delightful morning with my son!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
The mission
The mission: swim suit shopping
Oh, how I loathe it! But, I must accept this mission if I am to soak in the sun and enjoy the pool (and hopefully some beach) this summer.
I don't care what size you are, finding the suit is a pain. You could be a size 2 and not find anything that is right for you.
Do I buy a one piece? A tankini? A swim dress?
Bikini is not even an option for me!
I have probably tried on at least 50 different suits in the last week or so. Different sizes, different tops with different bottoms. Different patterns, all trying to hide those wonderful imperfections that make trying on suits so difficult and depressing.
The older I get the more I want a suit that is modest. (not that I've ever had a suit that wasn't, but now I'm just more aware of it) However, I don't want to buy a suit my grandma would buy either. I'm still young, right?!
So, I think I found one the other night. I need to go back and try it on again just to make sure. I just hope it's still there! I really don't want to have to go through this again for a long while!
Oh, how I loathe it! But, I must accept this mission if I am to soak in the sun and enjoy the pool (and hopefully some beach) this summer.
I don't care what size you are, finding the suit is a pain. You could be a size 2 and not find anything that is right for you.
Do I buy a one piece? A tankini? A swim dress?
Bikini is not even an option for me!
I have probably tried on at least 50 different suits in the last week or so. Different sizes, different tops with different bottoms. Different patterns, all trying to hide those wonderful imperfections that make trying on suits so difficult and depressing.
The older I get the more I want a suit that is modest. (not that I've ever had a suit that wasn't, but now I'm just more aware of it) However, I don't want to buy a suit my grandma would buy either. I'm still young, right?!
So, I think I found one the other night. I need to go back and try it on again just to make sure. I just hope it's still there! I really don't want to have to go through this again for a long while!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
processing...
Pardon me as I process the happenings of today. Mainly, Mark Souder. I am frustrated, saddened, angry and many other emotions that are all mixed up.
I am saddened and angry by his admission of an affair. A Christian man who has been committed to "family values" thru his campaigns.
I am frustrated with people who are now bashing him even more because he has fallen.
I am angry at those who are happy he has stepped down.
I don't understand how some people can judge him by his actions and yet do not know him.
I am angry that this situations may make more people believe that Christians are hypocrites and give them more reasons why they dont want anything to do with the Christian faith.
We live in a fallen world and everyone is a sinner in need of God's grace and forgiveness. Mr. Souder will have concequences for his actions, but God's grace is sufficent and enough.
I am saddened and angry by his admission of an affair. A Christian man who has been committed to "family values" thru his campaigns.
I am frustrated with people who are now bashing him even more because he has fallen.
I am angry at those who are happy he has stepped down.
I don't understand how some people can judge him by his actions and yet do not know him.
I am angry that this situations may make more people believe that Christians are hypocrites and give them more reasons why they dont want anything to do with the Christian faith.
We live in a fallen world and everyone is a sinner in need of God's grace and forgiveness. Mr. Souder will have concequences for his actions, but God's grace is sufficent and enough.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Tears
Today was a day of many tears.
There were tears of sadness and loss as I remembered my dear friend Rachel's homecoming. It's hard to believe it's been a year. I remember her death like it was just yesterday. I'm so thankful though that she is celebrating one year of Paradise!
There were tears today when my Drew ran up to Laura with a huge smile accross his face while saying her name. What a blessing that was to me and Laura. He doesn't do that with anybody except family. I am so thankful for Laura and her unconditional love for Drew.
There were tears today when Jarod decided he didn't want to participate in a friend's birthday party. They went to Lazer X and he was just extremely scared about playing the game. So, we talked and prayed and talked some more. No convincing from anyone would get him to play. I felt like I deal with "issues" with Drew all the time, I don't want to deal with "isssue" with my non special needs kid. However, I am so thankful for gracious hosts and friends of jarod's that kept encouraging him. What a wonderful example of love that they all showed Jarod today. It really made me step back and realize that Jarod does have some pretty intense fears like the dark and I just need to keep praying through it and with him to help him overcome his fears.
I am started a diet this week and there were tears tonight when I was hungry! But, I am thankful that I have food and that I am trying to make healthy choices and lose weight.
Tears can be so healing. I'm glad that I shed some today and that God keeps showing me His faithfulness and goodness.
There were tears of sadness and loss as I remembered my dear friend Rachel's homecoming. It's hard to believe it's been a year. I remember her death like it was just yesterday. I'm so thankful though that she is celebrating one year of Paradise!
There were tears today when my Drew ran up to Laura with a huge smile accross his face while saying her name. What a blessing that was to me and Laura. He doesn't do that with anybody except family. I am so thankful for Laura and her unconditional love for Drew.
There were tears today when Jarod decided he didn't want to participate in a friend's birthday party. They went to Lazer X and he was just extremely scared about playing the game. So, we talked and prayed and talked some more. No convincing from anyone would get him to play. I felt like I deal with "issues" with Drew all the time, I don't want to deal with "isssue" with my non special needs kid. However, I am so thankful for gracious hosts and friends of jarod's that kept encouraging him. What a wonderful example of love that they all showed Jarod today. It really made me step back and realize that Jarod does have some pretty intense fears like the dark and I just need to keep praying through it and with him to help him overcome his fears.
I am started a diet this week and there were tears tonight when I was hungry! But, I am thankful that I have food and that I am trying to make healthy choices and lose weight.
Tears can be so healing. I'm glad that I shed some today and that God keeps showing me His faithfulness and goodness.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
I'm still here...
I have had several friends recently tell me that I need to blog some more. They miss reading about the Hansen's! Well, to those of you who read this...I am still here.
I'm finding it harder to write these days. Not that there isn't anything to write about; I just don't think about it. So, I am going to start to write at least once a week.
We all had a nice spring break. We went to Pokagon State Park for a few days with our friends, the Doron's. Andrew loves going there, mostly because he loves to swim in the pool! It is just relaxing for us! We came home on Wed. and then the boys and I left on Thurs. for Indy for a couple of days. Andrew has been talking about going to Gramma and Papa Pete's house for quite a while and Jarod also enjoys going. So, off we went. It was as relaxing as Pokagon. But we had a good time, none the less. We , of course, headed to the Children's Museum. They had the the big slide set up at the stairs with an Indiana Jones theme. Jarod loved it! I will try to post some pics later.
I'm finding it harder to write these days. Not that there isn't anything to write about; I just don't think about it. So, I am going to start to write at least once a week.
We all had a nice spring break. We went to Pokagon State Park for a few days with our friends, the Doron's. Andrew loves going there, mostly because he loves to swim in the pool! It is just relaxing for us! We came home on Wed. and then the boys and I left on Thurs. for Indy for a couple of days. Andrew has been talking about going to Gramma and Papa Pete's house for quite a while and Jarod also enjoys going. So, off we went. It was as relaxing as Pokagon. But we had a good time, none the less. We , of course, headed to the Children's Museum. They had the the big slide set up at the stairs with an Indiana Jones theme. Jarod loved it! I will try to post some pics later.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
normalcy
I am so ready for normalcy! All the delays and cancellations have really done a number on my emotions and motivation. I know that I get so much more accomplished when I am on a schedule. I'm hoping to get some things done today and then take Andrew out to lunch. He gets "out of whack" too when his routine is different.
On another note... Yesterday, as I was waiting for the kids to be dismissed from school, a mom was talking to her son, or me. or to anyone who listening (I'm not sure which). She was commenting on how assinine it was that the first graders couldn't come out before the kindergarteners. And that if her child didn't pass the alpha test (gifted program), she was going to pull her child out of this ridiculous school. I just smiled and shrugged my shoulders. Inside though I was ready to blow. I don't appreciate parents who berate our school. Haverhill is a good school. And what a poor example to set in front of your kid. Maybe it is just this one parent. She is an EGR in my life. (extra grace required).
On another note... Yesterday, as I was waiting for the kids to be dismissed from school, a mom was talking to her son, or me. or to anyone who listening (I'm not sure which). She was commenting on how assinine it was that the first graders couldn't come out before the kindergarteners. And that if her child didn't pass the alpha test (gifted program), she was going to pull her child out of this ridiculous school. I just smiled and shrugged my shoulders. Inside though I was ready to blow. I don't appreciate parents who berate our school. Haverhill is a good school. And what a poor example to set in front of your kid. Maybe it is just this one parent. She is an EGR in my life. (extra grace required).
Monday, January 25, 2010
5 on Monday
Today I am thankful for:
1. A good report from the orthodontist. Jarod is such the trooper!
2. A coopertive Andrew at the orthodontist. I brought the laptop and thanks to free WiFi, he was able to play Wheel of Fortune.
3. I bought myself a new shirt today. I know it's nothing earth shattering, but I needed a pick me up with the gray gray snowy day.
4. I had a wonderful run in with a friend at WalMart. We had not seen each other since her daughter passed away over the summer. It was great to see her and catch up. We are hoping to get together for lunch soon. She is a talker and so there is never a dull moment in conversation!
5. I am so thankful for Chocolate Cheerios. I love then! They are the perfect way to get my chocolate fix without all the sugar and calories. They are even good with milk!
1. A good report from the orthodontist. Jarod is such the trooper!
2. A coopertive Andrew at the orthodontist. I brought the laptop and thanks to free WiFi, he was able to play Wheel of Fortune.
3. I bought myself a new shirt today. I know it's nothing earth shattering, but I needed a pick me up with the gray gray snowy day.
4. I had a wonderful run in with a friend at WalMart. We had not seen each other since her daughter passed away over the summer. It was great to see her and catch up. We are hoping to get together for lunch soon. She is a talker and so there is never a dull moment in conversation!
5. I am so thankful for Chocolate Cheerios. I love then! They are the perfect way to get my chocolate fix without all the sugar and calories. They are even good with milk!
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