Home Sweet Home

We drove 2 hours from Tampa to Orlando to catch our flight back to London Gatwick.

Arrived at Orlando in good time. Had Dim Sum at my favourite Chinese Restaurant in International Drive (I go there every time I'm in Orlando.). The food is just as good as I remembered but cost a whole lot more than the last time I was there ... for sure.

The traffic at I4 was busy when we went for lunch. After lunch, I decided to get to the airport early instead of trying to kill time elsewhere .... and get stuck in traffic. Was a mistake as it was smooth sailing from I-Drive. We arrived wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy too early as our flight doesn't depart until 6:05pm. We had 5 hours before we fly and found a spot to sit and wait. Meanwhile, Jem and I took turn to go into shops to kill time. Alex on the other hand kept asking to go to the toilet. What's with this child? 

Along the way, I lost my new Eddie Bauer puffer coat .... I am still mourning my lost. I have not even worn it and now it's gone. I hope the coat will go to a good home and not destroyed by the airport authority.

We did not sleep in the plane but Alex did. He had his head on Jem's lap and his feet on mine. We couldn't move but that's OK.

When we arrived at London Gatwick, we pass Immigration in a zap as our flight was mainly Americans and only a handful of Brits returning. Got our luggage in no time but had to wait a whole hour for Alex's booster seat. Tut tut tut!

OK ..... got everything and brave ourselves to face the -4 degree Celsius outside. Got on the bus and head for our car at the long stay car park. 

Guess what? The car would not start. Called RAC and they got to us in 15 minutes. it turned out that the battery was low. Got the car started and we got home around 11am. 

I don't know why our holidays are always stressful. I don't know why we bother to go away in the first place. Spending all that money to stress ourselves further. Need another holiday to recover from the first holiday. I say this every time and we don't learn. I guess we have the case of learning difficulties. Hmmmm ....

Well, we slept all night and woke up at 10am this morning. Did three loads of laundry and another three to go. I have not even though about cleaning the house but that is tomorrow's problem. I am not going to stress my little brain on such small matter.

Stayed in all day and didn't even look out the window. Home Sweet Home!

Hanukkah at Tampa

After a whole day of walking yesterday, I told Jem that I have used up my quota for the next decade!

We went to IHOP (International House of Pancake) for breakfast with the Reeds. It wasn't exactly greasy spoon cafe but certainly sticky chair cafe. Adrinna had the great fortune of choosing a very sticky chair .... laced with syrup. She could hear ripping sounds when she move her butt (LOL). It was good food and not exactly cheap but then again ... nothing is cheap these days. 

After breakfast, the Greens and the Reeds went separate ways and to meet up for Hanukkah lunch at Bill's mum's house in Tampa Bay.

It's a tradition that the Greens buy a new luggage each time they visit America. We did the same last year because we just love buying stuff. We brought 3 cases with us this time and packed enough for 7 days. We even used space saving bags to give us more space to pack. And that ..... was not enough!

We went to JC Penney, Sears and a luggage shop but we couldn't find a decent one for the money we are willing to part. I cannot believe how expensive luggage cost in America. The prices ranges from $100 to $1000. Both Jem and I looked at each other and thought we came to the wrong place to get what we wanted. We were tempted to walk into Macy's earlier but Jem said it will cost as much if not more. After going in and out of shops, I told Jem that we should try Macy's as we normally get what we want from the last shop. No harm done if there isn't one but have a try and who knows?

Samsonite has a sale on at Macy's and it cost $58 for a 32" wheelie Duffel Bag. I thought it was reasonable considering the silly money we saw in the other places. Next to it was a Pacific Coast 32" wheelie Duffel Bag but without a price tag on. Jem took the Samsonite to the cashier and I went after him and said that I want a price check for this one. When the cashier scanned the box, he told me it cost $39 and I could not believe my ears. I told Jem that I'm going to get this one instead of the Samsonite and he agreed. When I pay for the bag, the cashier gave me an additional 10% discount and I was over the moon. 

We got what we wanted and came back to the hotel to pack our stuff as we will be leaving for Orlando early tomorrow morning. 

We drove to Linda's (Bill's mum) home and found the house full of relatives. It was really busy but fun. Everyone is so friendly and we had a great time. Linda cooked very good Jewish food which was an eye opener for me and Jem. My only experience with Jewish cuisine is Bagel ..... toasted onion bagel ..... hmmmmm

Anyway, Alex played with the other children as well. He was a bit reluctant at the beginning but decided to join them after Erin took him outside with the other children. Erin is such a great girl and Alex adores her. I am so proud of my niece and I just wished she could be with Alex all the time. I know that is not possible and I can only hope that her plans to visit us next summer will come true.

We left before the Reeds and on our drive back to the hotel, Alex said "Taco Bell" when he saw the food chain. It was so funny how our son could say this so accurately when he can't say anything else. Alex could also say "Kohl" when we drive pass the department store.

We will have an early ish night and tomorrow will be a very very long day.  

Boxing Day (Busch Gardens, Tampa)

Alex got up at 5am and wanted Breakfast. 

He didn't make life easy for anyone. He wanted porridge for breakfast!

Well, you could guess .... we woke the Reeds as well and they were not happy bunnies. That's the trouble with staying in a shared accommodation when you have a young child .... 

Got to Busch Gardens before 10am and it was already quite busy. We were all handed a note when we entered the parking area stating that they are expecting the park to be very busy today.

It is not always possible to do thing together when you have a small child. Adrinna and family went their separate way as the children wanted to do the big rides while Alex could only do the little ones. We decided to meet up for lunch and to stay in touch using Erin's cellphone.

Our first stop .... to get a stroller. The park map is bloody useless. It is not easy to find what you want. I had to ask the Janitor to tell me where to get a stroller. When we got there, paid for a stroller, I asked if they do a quick pass for special need children. She was clueless and asked her Supervisor whom is equally clueless. He said "As far as I am aware of, we don't do special passes for anyone". Thanks bloody much!

Not being one who give up easily, I asked for direction to the information counter. Walked around quite a bit and finally found the Customer Service desk at the other entrance (main entrance). I asked the ladies behind the counter if they do special passes and they said yes.

I showed them the letter from our Pediatrician and was told that they needed to see Alex and to measure him. 

Great! I had to go find Alex as he was with his dad at the other side of the park entrance. It was a long way to go back and fro and finally ... after measuring Alex and issued a special access pass, I finally get to relax. It was a very stressful morning for me.

We wanted to take the train at Nairobi Station but missed it. Had to wait 20 minutes for the next one and decided to do something else. Our first stop was Rhino Rally. It's a busy ride but we got in straight away using the pass. It was the best ride out of all the rides and Alex enjoyed the whole experience. According to Busch Garden's description "Rhino Rally transports guests aboard an off-road adventure through the wilds of Africa. Guests experience a blend of up-close animal encounters with an unpredictable safari competition." 

We went to Scorpion next .... "Feel the "sting" of Scorpion's terrifying 60-foot drop and 360 degree loop at incredible speeds. You can find the Scorpion in Timbuktu...If you dare. You must be 42 inches tall to ride and other safety restrictions may apply." Alex enjoyed it so much and was laughing all the way. Jeremy and I on the other hand .... not so much. It was too jerky when it slowed down and we almost had our neck broken. This is surely a sign of old age.

We were on our way to the Congo River Rapids when we past Congo Train Station and saw that the train will be arriving in two minutes. Went for the train instead. It was a fantastic way to see the park and the animals. Shamed we didn't have our cameras as we put our belongings in the locker when we went for Scorpion. 

After the train, we met the Reeds for lunch at Desert Grill in Timbuktu. Adrinna got wet and dry again after Stanley Falls Flume and the kids had fabulous time on Sheikra and Kumba (all the rides that Alex can't go and me ... chicken)

After lunch, we went separate ways again. It wasn't easy to find a ride suitable for Alex and on a full stomach. We walked around for a bit and finally really to face our challenge ..... the Congo River Rapids -  the swift-flowing white water of the Congo River Rapids. Spin through a geyser, face an ominous waterfall, and other thrilling obstacles in a 12-person raft.

I was totally drenched when we came out of the ride despite wearing a poncho from head to knee. I was the wettest of the lot. We saw Adrinna and she was about to queue for the ride and took my poncho. I wished her luck!

Trying to dry myself in the hot sun, we then went for a 4D Pirate show at the Timbuktu theater. Came out with a very wet patch on my chest area. What was dried out is now wet again. Whose idea was it to go for the show???? Oh right .... it was mine. All I wanted was a place to rest my tired feet. Alex was alright .... he was pushed around in the stroller while mummy and daddy walked for miles. And ..... every so often what seemed like every five minutes, Alex asked to go to toilet and we had to go search for one. Luckily, they are never short of loo in Busch Gardens.

After the show, I took Alex to two rides while Jeremy watched and took pictures. The ever popular Carousel and Sandstorm. 

Sandstorm was a popular ride for smaller children and the queue was never ending. I used the pass for this ride and had to stand at the exit to wait for an attendant to tend to us. There were no one there and I was approached by a man and told me that the queue was at the other end. A woman of Spanish descent came to my rescue as she too had a pass. She said that I could wait there with a pass and the man walked off feeling embarrassed.

I still couldn't get use to this special pass thing as I still feel that it isn't fair to the other children when they had to wait for ages while we walk in without having to wait. But, being a mother .... with a child who can't wait and flying 4,000 miles and paying lots of money to be at the park, I am prepared to face my fear and be a bit thick skin to make my child happy. After all, it was all for Alex.

We went looking for more rides suitable for Alex at the Land of Dragons but could not find it and ended up at the other end of the park in Egypt. We walked around Edge of Africa and saw many animals and shelter to rest our tired feet. I am not sure about other people but to me .... the signpost and map are useless. I can't find Land of Dragon and we are still wondering if it existed.

We met the Reeds again for KaTonga, a musical of tales about animals in the jungle. It was very good and a close resemblance to Lion King the musical. I haven't seen the Lion King but I have watched their promos and it was very much like that. It was a good show and I would recommend it to anyone. Alex enjoyed the show and was really excited when the monkeys went somersaulting.

After that, we had snack and drinks with the Reeds and called it a day when Alex complaint about tummy ache. The Reeds stayed on for the rides as it was a bit quieter now.

We got lost on our way back to the hotel and Alex kept saying "Mumma go go hotel .... poo"

Alex really need a Poo and he wasn't joking. Sounded a bit yucky to mention here but he exploded when he sat his bum on the seat. That's all I could reveal - LOL

Summary: It was a good day but stressful at the beginning. I prefer Disney to Busch Gardens as Alex is still too young to fully enjoy the rides. The customer service was poor as they don't know what Autism is and couldn't be bothered to find out making a parent with special need child feeling like a beggar. Disney on the other hand, was great. Didn't need to show them Alex for measurement and was treated respectfully. 

Happy Christmas and Merry Birthday????

It's Christmas and it's also my birthday. Somehow, it doesn't felt like either.

No Christmas tree (the Reeds are Jewish), no waking up to a cold frosty morning (Florida ... what did you expect) and Road trip ..... yeah (????) lets see ..... lost count of the hours on the road from Tallahassee to Tampa. 

According to my trusted (???) SatNav, it should take us 5 hours and 15 minutes (if I recall that correctly) from Tallahassee to our final destination. However ...... we stopped in Ocala for Christmas lunch at a Chinese Buffet restaurant. It was nice and I liked the food but Christmas is not Christmas without Turkey, Beef or Pork with loads of veggies and Brussels Sprouts (yucks). Gravy, trimmings, cranberry sauce and Yorkie Puddie.

After lunch, it was back on the road again. Bill drove his car with his loving wife and children sleeping while I drove our rental Toyota Corolla with my happy family. It was a long straight road and really .... it doesn't feel like Christmas at all as there were many people traveling on the road. We got bored and I overtook Bill for a bit and then he overtook me and we lost him completely. 

We then relied on our trusted SatNav which hasn't failed us yet .......

As we reached Tampa, we were taken to a housing estate in some miles away from where we need to be. We were lost!

Adrinna rang and they too were lost. No SatNav nor Google Map could take anyone to this place as it is a new hotel by the airport. After getting lost a few more times and going through parts of Tampa that no tourist should see, we finally reached the hotel in one piece.

I don't know what you call this but we have two rooms with two double beds in each room, a small living area with a sofa bed and a small kitchen with microwave oven, dishwasher, hob and oven and even a waste disposal in the sink. We were quite impressed. Adrinna and family in one room and the Greens in another.

We all went down to the pool after settling in, Alex was holding onto Erin the whole time and Joshua went swimming and annoying his sister. They had fun!

It's supposedly Christmas and every where's closed. Jeremy fancied a cold beer ..... and we need stuff. Adrinna and I went out looking for milk, drinking water, food and Beer. We found Walgreens and got what we needed and more.

That was our day. It didn't felt like Christmas nor my 39th Birthday but on the brighter side of things, I had my sister's family with me and my own beloved family.

Day 7 - 15 (Tallahassee) Shop till you drop

I cannot believe I'm saying this. Shopping is boring!

There isn't much to do besides shopping and eating in Tallahassee. It's not one of those places a tourist would go. The biggest thing that happened in Tallahassee was the 2000 Election where media around the world came to Tallahassee for the election results. 

It is however, a nice place to live. People are certainly friendlier here than back home but then again, I am meeting all my sister's friends. 

We had a great time here, Alex is very happy with his cousins. Erin adore Alex and Josh played with him quite a bit. We are going to miss them very much. I tried spending more time with my sister as I don't know when I will see her again. 

Alex is speaking more everyday. He is stringing words forming a sentence. Just this morning, he said "Dada meh apple jui" he would previously say "Dada go go apple jui". He is using the word 'make'. 

He also said "I can't get down" the other day (I sat him on the bathroom counter and he wanted to get down).

We took Alex to the park a few times and it's one of the things we can use to keep him calm. He has been very good going in and out of shops with us and when he starts getting fidgety, we'll say .... "Do you want to go to the park?" he will say "OK" and we'll then say that we will go as soon as we finish shopping. It works ... all the time.

Alex has been very close to the family golden retriever, Belle. He is not afraid of her at all and would let her lick his feet. He would sit very close to Belle and stick his feet on her nose. She'll lick him gently and he laugh.

We're so glad that Alex is enjoying himself and can't help to think what would he be like when we get home.

Only 5 days to go but it felt like a long time when you are doing nothing but shopping and eating.

Day 6 (Tallahassee) BatMitzvah

Mazeltov Erin! and Happy Birthday!

My beautiful niece is now a young lady. I am so proud of her.

I cannot believe how time flies. My little niece turned 13 and I am not even ready to let her grow. I am extremely proud of her and I know I'll always will.

The Reeds left for the Temple early and the Greens .... as usual take their own sweet time but managed to arrive on time for once. The culprit here is of course ..... Me! I have a serious problem and that is time keeping. There are previously two important occasion that I managed to be on time. My first date with Jeremy and my wedding day.

Being on time for Erin's BatMitzvah is a good omen.

Alex had a short tantrum, refusing to go to our seats, I tried consoling, bribing and anything I could think of to make it less embarrassing .... nothing worked. My last resort .... I pulled him outside and went down on my knees .... No I wasn't begging!

I said to him sternly, "Stop this INSTANTLY! I will not have anymore of your tantrums! Go sit down and be quiet. Do you understand me?"

To my surprise and to Jeremy's .... he went to the seat quietly and remained that way until the end of the service. Two hours later, Alex is still well behaved and we were so proud of him.

After the service, we had lunch and then Disco. Alex danced with me the whole time and at one point, a little girl came to him and asked him to dance. I had to tell her that Alex is shy but thank you for asking though, she looked so disappointed and I look like the control freak mum - LOL

It was a long day but we all enjoyed the occasion.

Day 5 (Orlando - Tallahassee)

Road trip day!

Driving over five hours and over 200 miles from Orlando to Tallahassee, we've finally arrived at our true destination.

We arrived earlier than planned to find an empty house. My sister Adrinna is busy picking up stuff from shops for the big day. Bill and Erin practising for the Big day at the temple while Josh was still at school.

It wasn't long after that everyone finally got together. It was great to see my niece and nephew. I realized how much I missed them. Alex picked up from where he left last year. He instantly bond with his cousins and soon played chasing and wrestling together.

Adrinna offered to cut Alex's hair as we failed to get this done at home. It was amazing how Alex sat so still and cooperative. She did a great job!

I didn't get to talk to Adrinna after that as she had to go to the temple again.

We went to bed early.

Day 4 (Orlando) Tornado Watch

Looked like we planned our holiday quite well ..... so far. We did Magic Kingdom on the best day of the week.

We woke to a yucky rainy morning that turned into day ... there was a Tornado Watch. We didn't dare to venture far and went shopping at Orlando Premium Outlet Mall instead, as it was just a short drive away from our hotel.

It wasn't easy going in and out of shops on a rainy day as the shops here are like strip malls but on a larger scale. Getting from one section to the other required an umbrella, a Pancho, newspaper or whatever you can find. If you don't have either, try running for your life as the rain is not just drizzle it's RAIN.

Alex was very good ..... up to a point .... after we got all his things that is. We got him loads of clothes from Gymboree and Osh Gosh. I have to say this ..... children clothing ARE definitely more interesting in America.

By the time we finished with Alex's shopping, he was tired of going in and out of shops. If we hadn't hired a funky stroller, I don't think we could last this long. We didn't get much for ourselves as when Alex is not in the mood, there is no point for us to go on.

Before we left, I quickly ran back to Eddie Bauer to get my goose down jacket. I saw this on our way in the mall and that was the only thing I got for myself.

We ordered Chinese again and as usual, we ordered too much ..... again. Had an early night as we needed to travel early in the morning.

Day 3 (Magic Kingdom, Orlando)

Hot, humid, lots of walking and oh so tired!

Despite all my moaning, it was all worthwhile!

The smile on Alex's face brought a lump to my throat. Watching my son laugh with joy riding on the carousel horse, made everything alright.

Our day started very early, waking at 4:00am.

At 8:00am, we were then picked up from the hotel to Marriott's Vacation Club for a supposedly 45 minutes non obligational presentation to get $100 Disney Dollars to spend.

After the presentation, we went to Magic Kingdom and arrived around noon. Although this is not the first time I've been, I was still mesmerised by the beauty of Cinderella Castle.

This visit is not about me, we decided to let Alex make all the choices for the day. Doesn't matter what mummy wants ..... it's all about Alex this time.

We started with Steam train ride around MK from main street station. Followed by Big Thunder Mountain Railroad - Alex was laughing with excitement. Our boy is an adrenalin junkie!

Had lunch and followed by The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Straight after, we were just in time to catch the Parade - you were never in Magic Kingdom if you don't have photos of the parade to proof your presence - LOL

After the Parades, we headed to Cinderella Castle for Dumbo the flying Elephant and Cinderella's Golden Carousel.

Finally, at Tomorrowland - we accidentally went into Stitch's Great Escape! and pleasantly surprised by the 4D show. Alex enjoyed it so much that he was clapping and laughing all because Stitch stole a sandwich and burped on us. It smelt of onion breathe and it was awful. Because everyone said "ewe" at the same time, Alex giggled with excitement.

After Stitch, we went to Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin followed by the grand finale .... TTA (Tomorrowland Transit Authority). Sounded posh but it was just a train that go round the buildings.

It was certainly a grand finale ride as we were stuck in the train for at least 15 minutes in the dark because some crazy woman left her carriage and walk in between the tracks. They had to stop the trains to get her out. What a nightmare but thankfully, Alex is OK with it.

We planned to stay for the fireworks at 8:00pm but because it was a long day and we were tired of walking, we decided to head back to the hotel and rest. Alex was really tired as he was awake for 14 hours. We left at 6:00pm.

During our six hours at MK, we enjoyed every moment of it. We got a special pass for Alex and used the Fast track lane for almost all the rides. If we hadn't, we would only be doing half of what we did today. To fully enjoy the park, you need at least three days to do any justice to the place.

We hired a stroller for Alex and that made a big difference to our day. I would recommend Disney Parks to any special need families as it's such a friendly place to be.

Entrance to Park x 3 = $226.86
1 1/2 hrs Presentation = -$100.00
Parking at Disney = $12.00
Stroller Hire = $15.00
Lunch x 3 = $28.00
Souvenir = $5.00

Smile on Alex's face = PRICELESS!

Day 2 (Orlando)

After much needed sleep and rest, Alex woke at 3:00am Orlando time. When Alex wakes, everyone wakes!

We all went back to sleep an hour later and woke up at 9:30am. Well rested and happier, we decided to have a quiet day to chill.

Went to Waffle House for breakfast and decided to do the tourist thing .... taking photos of our food - LOL

Went to a tacky gift shop for a walk ... the American do everything in an over sized manner - not being disrespect to my American readers but everything is much bigger compared to the Brits.

Even the gift shop is tackier than any I have seen.

After breakfast/brunch, we drove to Publix to get a few provision and dinner. We decided to pick up some fried chicken, coleslaw and potato from the deli. I have to say, the American makes food look interesting and not like us back in England with limited choice from a supermarket that is. Pick up some freshly made Sushi .... hmmmmm scrummy, just mentioning it now makes my mouth water.

Got back to the hotel for a swim and then rest. Later went for a walk by the hotel to checkout the food centre .... No biggie.

We decided to take a drive to International Drive and Jem drove this time. It was getting dark and he missed a turning and took us onto a highway and learned our way around after paying $2 for tolls.

International Drive, not what it used to look like eight years ago when I first visited Orlando. It was beautiful in some part with lights decorating the trees, looking magical. At the other end of I-Drive, tackier than anywhere I've seen in my years of travelling. The closest resemblance to the places I've visited is Phuket's Patong Beach night Market.

Don't get me wrong, it's nice just not my cup of tea. Meanwhile every bus that we passed, Alex would say "purpur ba go go airport" or "bu ba go go airport" all the way and back our drive. Our son is obsessed with airports and I bet I know where he'll work when he gets older.

It was a pleasant day 2 of our holiday.

Day 1 (London - Orlando)

One of the most stressful day of our lives!

It was a long long long day but we cannot be prouder parents. Alex was amazing despite all the waiting, waiting and waiting.

We all woke up at around 5:30am and left the house at 7:05am. Traffic was ... Well, what do you expect on a Monday morning? It was rather awful on the M3 but as soon as we got onto the M25, it was rather smooth sailing but not for the other lot at the opposite direction.

Alex was really excited about this trip. We prep him with social stories on the transport mode. First we go on car then bus from the long stay car park to airport. Then train (monorail) to boarding gates and the airplane to Orlando in that order. However, things are never what it seem in real life and social stories especially the author mainly the mum was not up to date with the travel arrangements. She thought it was the north terminal that we are flying from. Well duh! We flew Virgin Atlantic this time which flies from the South terminal (she previously flew on other airlines).

Anyway, Mummy the control freak likes driving and drove past the entrance to the long stay car park and ended up dropping Daddy with the luggage at the terminal. Thanks to Daddy's quick thinking about social story, Alex came with mummy to the car park to board the bus to the terminal.

When we were at the terminal, Alex kept saying "choo choo" but we had to tell him that we don't go on the train at this airport. He was really disappointed but he got over it after saying "choo choo" what seem like a hundred times.

Finally, on the plane! Cannot be prouder with our pain in the backside. He was very well behaved but very fidgety too. He didn't want to sleep and trick his dad and me a few times that he wanted to poo. Well, I knew he needed to as he let go a few smellies when he sat on me. It had to be me ..... aiyah yah yah yah!

By 4:30pm, five hours flying time and after tricking us six times that he wanted to poo, it's my turn to take him to the toilet. Imagine this .... in a small cubicle, my little boy on the bog, straining away while mummy knelt to see if he's doing it, plop came a long one followed by one squirt of 'eau de poo' and another long one and another squirt. The relieve on his face while mummy turned green.

It's strange how he does it like clock work, always at around the same time, not sooner not later.

Meanwhile, mummy and daddy had to endure a whole nine hours of "airport?" his way of saying "are we there yet?" Holy mo! For one limited speech boy, he sure can drive us crazy!

Can I say finally now? No ... but it was finally landed on American soil but not pass the immigration yet. You would think that we will be welcome with open arms but No! There seem to be an attitude with these guys. Considering we are bringing money into this country, we had better treatment from immigration from Atlanta the last time but these Floridians are a different species.

Queued for an hour with 800 other Brits, it was hot and noisy and we can't wait to get to the hotel but all these while Alex was a gem.

After waiting for our luggage twice, we finally had our rental car. Zap on our SatNav and key in the hotel address. "No Match for address" I told Jem to ring the hotel but he said, "we won't miss the hotel it should be along Vineland Road." After paying two tolls at the turnpike, drove along Vineland Road twice, we were no where near Marriott's.

We had to call the hotel and was told that they are at Vineland Avenue, 12 miles from where we were. Meanwhile, it was 7pm Orlando time and 12 midnight UK time, Alex finally fell asleep on the back seat. He was awake for 19 hours and did not complain while mummy and daddy biting each others head off.

Finally! Reached the hotel, checked in, ordered Chinese for dinner and hit the pillow straight after. Don't ask me what time but all I know it's not soon enough.

We cannot be prouder parents but we are ashamed of our own behaviour for snapping at each other.

Have Bribery will travel

Just got home from Auntie Wendy's house in Little Hampton.

It was a cold and sunny day .... we had a great day with Auntie Wendy, Sue (Jeremy's sister), Peter and George (her husband and son). 

We are all very proud of Alex. 

We went out for lunch at a local cafe and it was really busy. Auntie Wendy made a reservation for between 1pm and 1:30pm but because the cafe was really busy, they put her for 1:30pm without letting her know of the changes. We arrived at 1pm and had to wait a whole 30 minutes for a table. 

Alex was so patient and happy while waiting. By the time we ordered and having our first course, it was 2:15pm. Alex started fidgeting and small tantrums emerging .... (he woke up at 3:45am), he was hungry and he was tired.

I told Jeremy to go to the counter to get a roll of Droste chocolate (my favourite) to calm Alex. When Jeremy got to the table with the chocolate, I let Alex hold on to them. I told him that he had to sit nicely while waiting for his Spaghetti Bolognese. He can only have his chocolate if he eats his Spag Bog. It worked wonders! 

He waited patiently for his Spag Bog and then when it arrived, he refused to eat it. I took the chocolate away from him and let him have his tiny tantrum - jumping on the spot. 

We all looked away and continued our lunch while he stood there looking. He calmed down and then I gave him a spoonful of the Spag Bog. He ate it, and then sat down to have some more. He ate a good 3/4 of the plate (it was a generous portion for a four year old) and then we all praised him for being good. He then said "Cho co har" .... as promised, I gave him two discs. He was really happy and we were well impressed with our new strategy - ha ha ha

Looks like bribery goes a long way ............................

Tweet tweet

Woken to the sound of rumbling thunder?

Nope .... it's Alex dragging his toy box and stools around his bedroom.

I got up to see what the fuss is all about. What I saw put a smile on my face.

Alex stripped his bed and moved all his pillows and duvet to make a comfortable little nest on a platform next to his drawers. He dragged his toy box and stool to build a step to reach his nest.

He could have easily got onto his nest all by himself but as soon as he saw me, he said "mumma ..... I can't". He wanted me to help him up.

Alex could do anything on his own but as soon as he sees us or someone he knows pretty well, he will ask for help.

Anyway, after I helped him up, he made himself comfortable and said "tweet tweet".

It's quite strange! (I read quite a bit about autism in forums and discussions where parents share their experiences on what their children do.) Autistic individuals, mostly children like to strip their bed to make a nest on higher places. Is there a reason?

Could it be a characteristic of autism? Similar to hand flapping and repetitive behaviour, he find comfort in building a nest.

I wonder .......

The joy of being a mum (sometimes)

My mornings are mostly filled with surprises and laughters (that is when I have enough sleep).

Monday morning .... The first day of December, I was half awaken by a weeping child. He came to my bed at 5:30am and wanted a hug. We cuddled abit and I fell asleep.

7:00am - I was awaken by "oh oh" and then an empty Tupperware on my face. Alex has eaten all the chocolate tea biscuit for breakfast. He then said "mumma .... Apple ju".

I knew there weren't many of those biscuit left in there as Jeremy had them in the study ... he would have eaten most of them. For all I know, Alex might just have licked all the crumbs (one of those life mysteries) off.

Anyway, back to apple juice. Got up, and on my way downstairs, I passed the study and saw ..... Bob the builder book opened, with all the shapes placed correctly. (Alex got this book from his Aunt Susan yesterday and it's one of those 3 in1 books where you can read, place shapes in certain places and press on the shapes to make sounds.) I was well impressed with my son. Further at the corner where the desk is, he placed his fire engine with it's ladder up against the chair. A fully extended measuring tape placed from the desk to the fire engine via the chair ... as if someone is trying to escape from the scene.

Well, if anyone say an Autistic child is lack of imagination, please come see Alex.

I went downstairs to get his juice and I belted out the biggest laughter I've ever made, Alex decorated my scrabble board with the tiles (picture of evidence to follow) around it.

Made his juice and went upstairs. Quickly grab the camera to collect evidence. Turned on the light and what did I see? Alex with a Hitler moustache.

If this is not joy of motherhood, I don't know what is. I count my blessings everyday for having such a delightful son and a loving husband.

My scrabble board decorated by tiles

Fire Engine to the rescue

Bob the builder 3 in 1 Book

The rest of the shapes

I am the Boss!

Well, he is the Boss alright. And there is nothing we can do about it. In this case anyway.

For almost three days, Alex consumed around a cup of water at the most. The reason?

We changed his bottle. Alex could drink from a cup, using a straw on just about any drinks. There is only one thing he would drink his water from - is out of his favourite Tommee Tippee straw-like teat bottle.

We tried to wean him off from that and replaced an upgraded version of his bottle but he just can't take on to it.

We persevered for two and a half days and he only manage to consume about one cup at the most. Consequently, we have a dehydrated, cranky little Alex over the weekend, yesterday and this morning.

We had to give in or we would be very bad parents. This is one thing we cannot insist upon.

I think I know the reason. Alex like drinking his water laying down or leaning against something soft, relaxing. That is his way of winding down and quality moment. For us to take that away from him doesn't feel right.

We don't take his bottle out with us and he only used them at home. I guess the bottle could stay for now ..... Until he is ready to change.

What a great day!

I am sitting here updating my blog with a nice glass of Rose. It can't get any better than that!

Alex went to bed at about 6:45pm tonight. No tantrums, no fuss .... just so nice to have him back.

I guess the day started nicely for me as Jeremy let me stay in bed until 10am and served me my breakfast in bed. I can't stress enough, I am the luckiest woman.

Alex and I had some quality time before going to Rainbow. We danced to the music from the iPod, we shared cuddles and I just love him so much. He was so cheeky, making me laugh all day.

When he got home from Rainbow, he played with his toys, come to me occasionally asking for some attention and let me finish with my Christmas cards. 

He was a bit of a sod though, when it came to dinner time. I asked him if he wanted pasta for dinner and he said yes. I cooked and when I was about to feed him, he smell his food and then ran upstairs screaming as if he was served with a bowl of poo. It was his favourite, tuna pasta and he decided today it is no longer his favourite.

Jeremy gave him a bowl of cereal instead and he sat there eating them happily. We have decided not to push or force him to eat when he obviously doesn't want to. I know if I push him, he will have a mouthful and then spit them out onto the floor. I would have more to do.

When it came to bed time, we asked if he wanted to sleep and he said no. We stop at that and let him play with his toys. Later, he came to me, sitting on my lap and snuggle up to me. He yawned and was about to fall asleep when I asked him again if he wanted to go to bed. This time he said yes and we went upstairs.

As soon as I tucked him in, he signed in makaton for book. I read him his story and then said good night. He called for me and when I sat next to him, he gave me a great big hug and then said "nite nite".

I am so proud of him and I guess it has a lot to do with my well being too. If I am all stressed up, it would have been a different outcome.

If I force him to eat his pasta, I wouldn't be sitting here sipping my wine. 

Mummy the detective

After giving much thought about this change in Alex, I decided to use the iceberg method to determine what the possible cause that is turning my son into a brat.

Much thinking and remembering, I think I know what causes the problem.

The heating!

Alex has been waking up really early in the morning and then sneak into our bed, wriggling and fidgetting, digging his cold feet into me. Rather than having two uncomfortable people and not enough sleep, one of us usually gets up (we take turns).

We were so tired of this arrangement and thought that the cause of his early rising is due to the heating. True enough it was. He has been sleeping through and waking at an acceptable hour. The downside to this is that we have the heating on all night.

It's too hot for us and Alex is sleeping on top of the duvet. His bed is right next to the radiator and it's hot hot hot. I think he is feeling hot inside and hence the temper tantrums.

I have been having sore throat and Jeremy headache for the whole duration of the heating being on all night.

We have to find a solution for this problem. Finding the right temperature is quite difficult unless we install a very expensive climate control system in the house. It's trial and errors from now on.

I want my lovely Alex back!

I don't want to go to bed

What's new with Alex?

He doesn't want to go to bed. 

It's been almost a week since he decided to make our life a little more exciting by defying us, when asked to go to bed, he will cry inconsolably, throw himself at me or jump on the spot with frustration. It's getting very stressful for me to see him acting unAlex-like. 

He used to go to bed at 6:00pm. Happily and willingly go to bed as long as we read him a book. Those days are over and the new Alex emerges.

I told Mrs Dunn, his teacher at Rainbow on Tuesday about the changes in Alex. The temper tantrums and the throwing himself at me or the floor when he doesn't get what he wants. I asked her if there were any child in the nursery or Rainbow that does that, perhaps Alex saw that and copied the behavior. She said "No .... definitely not. We do not tolerate tantrums at Rainbow and none of the children does that".

She said it is actually a good thing as Alex has always been a passive child and to be able to think for himself is a positive sign. Easy for her to say .... and I told her that. She laughed. 

So, I guess I should trust her and see how long this behavior will last. 

Mirror Mirror on the Wall

I don't know where he learn this from but Alex loves looking into the mirror and make different expressions and the appropriate voice to go with it.

I am not joking but he has been practicing how to whine, whinge and even cry in front of the mirror.

He even did this right in front of me leaving me speechless ... LOL

I am not sure if he practiced throwing himself on the floor crying but he did this a while ago because I said I will give him his cheese in awhile. 

If this doesn't earn him an Oscar, I don't know what will!

Longest four minutes

How do you discipline a Cheeky Monkey?

The answer is extremely difficult!

It's Sunday and it's not a day of rest for me when Jeremy is at work. I have Alex all to myself and piles of laundry needed washing.

I was in and out, up and down all day. Alex wanted my attention but I have so much to do. I feel guilty leaving him watching tv all day.

So, every so often ..... I give him hugs and tickles.

Came mid day when I sat in the lounge folding the laundry. Alex sat next to me watching and giving me that mischievious smile. I knew what he was about to do, I gave him a warning and he walk away looking back checking if I was looking.

All of a sudden, he lifted one of the folded pile and drop them on the floor and laughed. I was so angry that I screamed at him and asked him why. He looked at me and he knew what was coming. I gave him a slap on the backside and told him that he is naughty. It is not an acceptable behaviour.

I sent him to a corner and asked him to sit there for four minutes. He sat there quietly and look at me. Meanwhile, I continued with my work and watching him at the same time. He looked at me and gave me the sweetest and cutest smile.

I had to put a stern and angry face on but I was dying inside trying to stop myself laughing.

It was the longest four minutes of my life!

He sat there until the four minutes was up. I asked him if he knows he had done something wrong and he said yes. He gave me a hug and then the biggest cuddle.

It's so hard to be angry with Alex.

Too good to be true

Since having Alex, we have never had a sleep in past 6:00am. Well unless one of us get up and let the other sleep.

Jeremy went to work early this morning, so I won't expect to get some peace after 6:00am.

Normally, it would be "ma ma baa" and then "ma ma ba ha" that's bath and breakfast.

So, when I was awakened by the sounds of click clack cluck and followed by the strumming of a guitar, I knew he was up to no good. I turned over and saw 7:45am on the clock and quickly jumped out of bed.

Ran to the room next door and guess what greet my presence?

Alex holding a bunch of colour pencil smiling. On the floor, pieces of play dough in a line all over the room and the guitar on the floor.

Jeremy's guitar has gone through a lot since Alex. Look, check and found nothing suspicious looking on the surface.

As I pick the guitar up, I heard something in the hollow. Shook it and then parts of mr, mrs and miss potato head started to fall out one by one.Balloons and pieces of tissues all been hiding in there as well.

So, this is how my son keep himself entertain while mummy is sleeping. Well, I'm glad it's nothing serious but I ache for Jeremy's guitar.

Well, bye bye sleep and hello clean the mess up now.

I was in time to catch him before he start being Picasso and put his masterpiece on my wall.

Too good to be true. There will alway be something.

The Green Project

Click on photo to view album

God bless the Tallamys

This one is for Andrea and her family.

I met Andrea through Rainbow and invited her to join us at Friends of EarlyBird. Alex used to be in the same class with her son Joseph.

We became good friends and have a few play dates for the children.

Andrea gave birth to her youngest son Benjamin on 12th November. Unfortunately, the baby died before birth.

God bless Andrea and her family.

Trying it on

Alex has been a difficult child lately.

Short tantrums, refusing food, rebellion ..... anything that can make my life a little harder.

Jeremy and I made a decision to always agree with each other when parenting Alex. If one says "no" the other will say the same. If we don't agree with one's decision, we will let that go once and then discuss in private. Never ever disagree in front of Alex as he will learn to manipulate us.

For a child with ASD, Alex certainly do not have learning difficulties. He knows how to gauge our moods, look at our expressions and hatch a plan to get what he wants. A cheeky little devil in the making.

So, when daddy said no, Alex will run to mummy. As soon as he hears me say the "N" word, he will throw a tantrum. He will continue for a moment and then look up and see if he is winning the battle.

Most of the time, we can distract him with something else. If that fail, Jeremy will put a stern voice on and say "We don't do tantrums in this house". Miraculously he stopped.

Daddy is always the fun guy and mummy is always the baddie. When daddy raise his voice, he knows he is in big trouble.

Alex has been a bad eater since last week. He will smell everything before he put in his mouth. What used to be his favourite is now history. He survives on cereals, porridge and muesli.

I am not sure if getting dark earlier has any effect on his appetite. I recall he was like this, same time last year. He will only eat porridge last year but has now added Muesli into his favourite list.

I guess it's not so bad as Muesli is good for health but will he get all the nutrition he required for growing? 

Alex has grown 3 cm taller over night. I only found out when his car seat needed adjustment. All his new trouser are now just right when it was a little too long last week. 

I seemed to be complaining all the time .... ha ha ha

In the Summer, I said Alex is a Gannet ... can't stop eating. And when he stops eating, I worry. 

Do you think children go into hibernation as well? Eat less in the winter to avoid indigestion?

Alex's first Sparkler

Jeremy lighting the fuse 

Alex didn't want to hold them. As soon as we give him one, he'll put them on the ground.

 I decided to stick them on the ground while he watch.

Well, at least he held one and not totally a waste of money. 

Having said that, if he enjoyed them, it doesn't really matter how he play with them. Just because traditionally, children held them up high .... doesn't mean that you can't play it any other way.

It was too dark to see Jeremy lighting the rocket. But it gives you an idea of what it was like. I was holding Alex back and try to film this at the same time. 

We enjoyed the fireworks very much. 

Memory of an Elephant

Alex never forgets. When you tell him something or should I say promise him something, he make sure you do it.

Yesterday was Bonfire Night and I told him the night before that I will get him some fireworks. The condition is .... He has to go to bed.

When he woke up, he asked for fireworks. Although he couldn't say the word, he made the sound of rockets and used the makaton sign for flower. I think he made up the sign but coincidentally similar to the makaton sign.

So, I went to Sainsburys to get them.

As soon as he walked in the house after the taxi dropped him, he asked for it again. We told him that we have to wait till it's dark outside. He waited patiently for an hour and when it was dark outside, he went searching for his Dad. Jeremy was in the toilet at the time, Alex went in and grabbed hold of his hand and said "Dada go go".

Alex then grabbed his coat and shoes and pushed his dad out the back door. What a persistent child!

We had fireworks and sparklers. Alex enjoyed them so much. It's great to see the smile on Our son's face.

The excitement was overwhelming for him. He refused to go to sleep after that. I had to bribe him by telling him that if he go to sleep, he can have the special yoghurt I bought him tomorrow. He went to sleep without complaining. Bless!

Guess what he asked for after breakfast this morning?

Alex the Train Engineer

Taken two days ago. 

Alex is getting very good with this. He had very little help from Daddy and he designed the whole thing. He likes using the curve and branched track to make his railway line.

Pie come here

We had lunch at TGI Friday today.

After lunch, Jeremy briefly asked me if I wanted dessert and I said " no". All of a sudden Alex looked our way with glittering eyes and said "dessert".

We looked at each other and laughed and then asked him what he wants. He said "pie".

We then said to wait for Daddy to ask for the menu. All of a sudden, he shouted "pie ... Come!"

Cheeky Devil!

Also another milestone today, Alex drank the whole glass of orange juice using a straw. This is the first time he managed to do that. Call for celebration ..... Pie Come!

Discharged!

Well, I didn't want to say anything until I am sure of it.

If I have shared this much earlier, one thing will happen and that is my sisters reading this will get panic and either write or phone me to find out. I believe it would be the latter. My sisters, bless them .... cares deeply for me and me them.

About six weeks ago, I had this constant headache in the morning. It went on for four weeks and I thought I better check with my GP. He did some test on me and then prescribe pain killers (which I didn't want to take). He told me to get my eyes tested and would refer me to Wexham Park Hospital's Neurology Clinic (just to be on the safe side).

About a week after my appointment with my GP, I received a letter from Dr Wade's Neurology Clinic confirming my appointment on Monday, 13th October. Meanwhile, I called Boots to make an appointment to see the Optician.

Monday came, dropped Alex with my in-laws and went to the hospital for my 9:40am appointment. As soon as I arrived, I went in to see Dr. Wade, did some test, looking into my eyes with a torchlight, checking my peripheral vision and reaction etc. Was told that nothing's wrong but he would like me to get a blood test and a CT Scan (just to be on the safe side). Will see me in two weeks after receiving the tests results. In and out of the appointment in less than 15 minutes. Both Jeremy and I were wayyyyyyy impressed with the National Health Service.

The next day, I went to have my eyes tested. I need glasses .... I am astigmatic. I was told that I need glasses to read and when on the computer. Boo Hoo .... after dodging glasses for over three decades, I need them now.

Blood Test, Friday 17th October. Three tubes of blood were taken and Boy ..... it hurts but not too badly.

Thursday, 23rd October - CT Scan. Again in and out of the appointment in 15 minutes. Very impressed as well.

Yesterday, 27th October. Dr Wade .... all clear and I am being discharged. I was told that I have a round head and that I have a good normal brain. No malignant growth and my blood test also showed that my cholesterol level is normal (not bad for a thirty something hitting the 4 0 next year) I told Dr Wade that I am disappointed as I thought I was a genius and having a normal brain was not good news to me. We shared a laugh and Boy ..... am I relieved! 

All in all, I have to give top marks to every services I received from NHS and thanks to all the great people working for the service.

Report from Consultant Paediatrician

Here's the latest report from Dr Irani after our last visit on Wednesday, 22nd October 2008. We received the report on Friday, 24th October 2008. 

I have only praise for Dr Irani as he is efficient and understanding. He knows what it's like for parents to constantly searching for answers and he try to explain to us and assure us that we are doing the right thing for Alex. 

Although the Internet is God sent, there are also many conflicting reports and very much out of date. It's best for parents to check with the Professionals before trying to make conclusions that may not benefit their child.

Dr Irani put us onto the right track with our latest doubt if Alex is Dyspraxic and may not be Autistic. If we persist that route, Alex may not get all the support he requires if the ASD label is taken away.

Here's the report:

MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS/CURRENT DIFFICULTIES:

1. Generalised developmental delay (Mummy's note: Thank God it's not Global Developmental Delay)
2. Speech and Language delay with severe phonological disorder and characteristic speech apraxia/dyspraxia
3. Delayed fine motor skills with poor bilateral coordination
4. Autism Spectrum Disorder

Alexander has made some remarkable progress with his social communication skills and has been attending the Rainbow Resource at Great Holland Primary School.

Following the recent Speech and language therapy review, you have somehow been given the impression that Alexander's improvement with his social communication skills and his prominent difficulty with speech phonology could mean that 'dyspraxia' is the unifying diagnosis to explain his difficulties. This is not correct.

In spite of recent improvement, Alexander's social communication skills remain impaired compared to another child of his age. He demonstrates ritualistic behaviours and motor mannerisms (and these were evident in the clinic today). Hence the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder is entirely appropriate.

'Dyspraxia' does not exist as a medical entity within international diagnostic classification systems, although we all understand what this means. Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) is a valid diagnosis for marked impairment in the development of motor coordination that significantly interferes with academic achievement or activities of daily living. However, for a diagnosis of DCD, the child should not meet criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder and the motor difficulties should be in excess of the child's developmental delay. This is not the case for Alexander.

In my opinion, it is best that we do not all get too focused upon using complex terminology to describe Alexander's difficulties, but rather focus upon what approaches would be most appropriate to meet his range of developmental and education needs.

Observing how he struggled to form the appropriate words in the clinic today, I am  very supportive of the Speech and Language Therapist's observation about Alexander having an apraxic/dyspraxic speech difficulty.

Alexander also has significant difficulty with his fine motor, balance and coordination skills. Both of these would require that Alexander receives appropriate support from the therapists and also within the education setting.

I shall review Alexander's progress in my clinic in approximately a year's time. If you have any queries or concerns in the interim period, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me.

The wicked step parents

Alex ..... Is one difficult child to talk nicely to .... sometimes.

Seriously, Jeremy and I sometimes feel like we have to shout and be stern with Alex to get our message across.

Everything is a joke to him. He doesn't know when to stop, when to listen. And when he is in such a silly mood outside, it's not always possible to talk nicely to him.

To a stranger listening, we sounded like step parents or we are talking to a dog rather than a child.

It's the only way to get our message across to Alex by simplifying language. Alex has his moments, he is not always like that but when the Autism part of him takes over, that's when we feel ashame of ourselves for talking to him like that.

Sorry Alex, mummy and daddy loves you to bits but we had to.

Report from Rainbow Resource

This report was written by Mrs Dunham for Meath School visit on Tuesday, 21st October 2008.

Mrs Dunham was kind enough to accompany us to the school and was as impressed as we were. She believe that Alex will thrive at Meath and will do her utmost best to help get Alex into the school.

Meath School is a non-maintained special school run by the I CAN charity. A charity that helps children to communicate. It has consistently received outstanding result from OFSTED on all categories and is ..... quite expensive.

Here's the link to the school for those interested: http://www.ican.org.uk (click school on the left hand menu and then Meath School)

Now back to Mrs Dunham's report

Alex started Rainbow in May 2008. He is currently in his second term at Rainbow. He is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in May 2007.

Alex is a very loving and friendly little boy who smiles a lot and tries hard to please. He likes to be close to adults and needs persuasion to play with other children. He is a little nervous of crowds of children and new events and will try to hold adults' hands and stay close to them.

At Rainbow Alex is quite passive and compliant. He will respond to prompts therefore demonstrating understanding of simple instructions. His speech is very unclear but he tries hard to reproduce the sound patterns of language - he will also sing along to the tune of a song but not the words. Alex's attempts at speech are sounds. He often needs reminding to open his mouth to make a sound clearer but understanding is usually by guesswork rather than a clear word. Through practice he has a few clear words such as "Herow" (hello), "ba ba" (bye bye), and "More choos" (more juice). However, production of these words often requires a prompt as he is just as likely to "say" the word with his mouth closed.

Alex uses a visual timetable that gives his time at Rainbow some structure. Without it he can be a bit aimless and follow adults around. He really likes chasing games and rough and tumble play. With planned activities Alex will wait to be helped but responds to lots of encouragement. At Rainbow we don't use PECS with Alex but we do use Picture symbols to support his communication. This is because his speech sounds are unclear and he will use different sounds to say the same word. Alex uses his symbols book to make choices such as choosing colour, a toy to play with or a snack. Alex does try to comment on things and respond verbally and does persist even when he is not understood. When responding Alex has developed what appears to be a stutter where he gets stuck on the first part of a word and repeats it over and over.

Alex is quite clumsy and finds it difficult to climb up a low step without support. His fine motor skills are weak and he needs support to use a pencil to make a firm mark on paper and to use scissors. (Mummy's note: Alex can climb stairs, steps and stools on his own when there is no adult present. He has this habit of asking help even when he doesn't need any. I noticed this when Alex thinks I'm not looking - his teachers fell into cheeky Alex's trap .... ha ha suckers)

The Curriculum Based Developmental Profile (CBDP) shows Alex is mainly working at between a 0 - 2.5 year level (p levels 1-3) in most areas. Physically he is working at a 2.5 - 3.5 year level (p levels 4-5). We found that he understands and can follow most simple instructions. However his huge difficulties with speech production impinge on all areas of the curriculum and it is difficult to gauge what he does and doesn't know.

Alex is very compliant and extremely willing to please. He needs intensive support with his speech and communication. He is currently undergoing a thorough speech and language assessment and the pediatrician has also been asked to carry out an assessment of his fine and gross motor skills.

Report from Speech and Language Therapist

Since my last meeting with Mrs Dunham and Becca at Rainbow three weeks ago, Becca reassessed Alex and here's the Progress Report dated 17 October 2008 which I would like to share with you. Most people feel that reports should be confidential but I would like to share this because it may help someone .... someday.

BACKGROUND

Alex was given a formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in May 2007 following a Multi Professional Assessment.

Alex started Rainbow Resources in May 2008. Since starting in Rainbow he has received regular group and 1:1 therapy from the Speech and Language Therapist (SALT). In addition he has had his functional communication reviewed regularly by the SALT and communication programmes have been integrated into everyday activities within the resource setting.

Information for this report has been gathered from observations in the Rainbow Resources and the nursery, formal and informal assessment and discussions with Alex's Parents and Education staff.

ATTENTION AND LISTENING:

Alex is able to sit and participate in circle time and listen to stories with minimal prompting from the staff. He is able to sit and wait his turn during group activities. He participates in activities with adult support to keep him engaged and focused. Alex responds to adult direction.

VERBAL COMPREHENSION (UNDERSTANDING):

Alex's comprehension was last formally assessed in January 2008 and was found to be mildly delayed for his age. Further informal assessment and observations have been carried out since this time to assess his functional communication.

Alex has demonstrated understanding of situation requests (i.e. put your snack box in your bag) and routines within the resources environment. His understanding is aided by gesture and signing. Alex is able to follow short instructions directed to him individually and directed to a group.

Alex recognises familiar objects and their uses. He is able to understand verbs and some conceptual vocabulary including colours. He is consistently able to follow 2 information carrying word level commands i.e. "make teddy sleep" and his 3 information carrying word level understanding is emerging. (Mummy's note: Alex is able to understand more than the SALT thinks he can. His speech is limited hence it's difficult to determine how much he understands)

EXPRESSIVE LANGUAGE:

Alex is communicative and gets his message across using a combination of verbal and non verbal communication. He is able to request, choose and comment verbally using single words or two word utterances, however his speech is frequently difficult to understand and his length of verbal utterance and use of grammar is delayed for his age. He supports his speech using a Picture Communication Book, gesture, signing, intonation and pointing.

Alex smiles and laughs to express enjoyment. He is able to request help and to refuse verbally. Alex is able to say "hello" and "goodbye" verbally.

Alex continues to copy adult's utterances with both immediate and delayed echolalia.

Alex's expressive language skills are delayed and disordered when compared to his peers.

PHONOLOGY (SPEECH SOUNDS):

Alex's phonology has been assessed using the Nuffield Dyspraxia Assessment. The assessment has highlighted that Alex has a severe phonological disorder with characteristics of dyspraxia.

Alex has difficulty articulating several consonant sounds and he uses only a limited number of vowel sounds. Alex struggled to accurately and consistently sequence consonant-vowels and his rate was observed to be very slow. When naming pictures with single words he was observed to make several delayed articulation errors including missing off the ends of words (i.e. "bed" was said as "beh") and reduplicating the first syllable of a word twice (i.e. "garden" was said as "gaga"?. In addition he demonstrated several disordered characteristics including the insertion of glottal stops and distortion of vowels when naming pictures with single words.

Alex demonstrated oral motor difficulties including being unable to imitate tongue movements and lip positions on request.

SOCIAL USE OF LANGUAGE:

Alex initiates interactions with adults. He is able to use his language for a variety of reasons including requesting items, commenting on what he sees/hears, ask questions and use social language. Alex is able to use names of familiar adults and himself.

Alex will use eye contact when he is talking to an adult. Alex finds it difficult to initiate interactions with his peers appropriately and requires adult support to do so. Alex's play is frequently repetitive and he generally plays alone or watches his peers. Recently Alex has become anxious when playing in the playground or in nursery and requires a high level of adult reassurance to do so. He seeks out adult interactions over peer interactions.

SUMMARY:

Alex has a formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Alex's receptive language, expressive language and social interaction are delayed and disordered when compared to his peers. Alex has a severe phonological disorder with characteristics of dyspraxia.

Total frustration

It's been two weeks since I updated my blog. Two days ago, I sat down and start writing what's been happening to us. Guess what happened?

It took me 2 hours to write and finally, it was ready to publish ..... Pressed "publish now" plop ... Blue screen with an error message. Everything that I have been doing was gone because Blogger.com was under maintenance!

#*$£ .... I was so upset that I had to walk away before I smash the laptop. It's not easy to find time to sit down to write. I should have known .... Next time, write them offline and then cut and paste. There, learn something new the hard and frustrating way. I have now downloaded a new software on my iPhone and can now update my blog wherever.

Just thought I'll try it out before I write another long story and findout it's not working. Work smart this time. Will follow with account of the past two weeks.

The very bossy boy

Once upon a time .... not too long ago .... just this morning in fact, a little boy name Alex has been really cheeky and bossy.

Jeremy came home from work and was about to have his shower, Alex wanted his first, so .... as usual, the young prince is priority and he had his shower. After shower, he went into his play room and start doing what he does best .... thrashing the room.

While he was "playing" Jeremy came to our room to get ready for shower and one thing led to another, we engaged into a conversation about you know who ... and his cheeky antics.

Alex heard us talking about him in the other room and came into ours and said "Da da go go go bath" and then very sternly said "go go" and hurried his dad to the bathroom.

That is one complete sentence (but with a little stuttering) and he knows what he wanted to say. We were so happy and said "Good talking, Alex" and he was so pleased with himself.

Progress .... with an attitude - LOL

We received good news today.

Alex could see Dr. Irani sooner than scheduled. His secretary called today to inform us that there is a cancellation and she is able to fit Alex in. Instead of November, we could see him in 2 weeks time.

Mrs Dunham and Becca (ST) will be writing their reports to accompany our visit to Meath School in Surrey on the 21st this month. Looks like everything is in motion quicker this time round. When we get Dr. Irani's report, the Occupational Therapist report will follow and we could submit to the Local Education Authority for a revised Statement for Special Education Need.

We hope things would go smoothly and that Alex could get the help he needed as soon as possible. 

OMG My Niece lock me out of her BLOG.

I have a link here on my blog to my niece Erin's and guess what I found out? I wasn't invited to read her blog :-(((

I can't believe it ........... her favourite Aunt (I hope). 

Anyway, I still love you very much and I still will spend all that money to come to your BarMitzvah. The only things is ..... now that I am not invited to read your blog ..... hmmmm what am I going to get you for your birthday????

You've been warned KID!!! LOL

Couldn't be sweeter

Although it's 1:30 in the morning, I was half asleep and don't mind continue to do so ..... Alex came into our room and walked straight to his dad's side of bed.

This is something new as Alex comes to me all the time. Jeremy was at work all day yesterday and did not see Alex when he got home. The last time the father and son were together was when Jeremy read Alex his bedtime story on Monday night.

Alex and Jeremy are very close and I am very proud of that. I called Jeremy at work yesterday afternoon and put it on speaker phone. Without prompting Alex, he said "Hello Da da" and then "Bye Bye Da da".  This is progress as I had to prompt him what to say, usually.

He came home with his daily activity report yesterday with the following comments from his teacher:

Monday: Alex practiced counting using the whiteboard, in PE we had an obstacle course, Alex practiced kicking the ball and throwing the bean bag, Alex put on his own socks and shoes after a 10 minutes stand off (ha ha ha ... that's about right)

Tuesday: Alex practiced numbers on the whiteboard. They played a turn taking game. Alex used his PECS at snack time and his speech became clearer too. They played in the shaving foam and sand.

It's great to hear that his speech is getting clearer. I read somewhere about using PECS helping children with verbal apraxia to speak clearer. It's a visual prompt that somehow convey the message better to the brain.

I read so much and did so much research that I cannot recall where I got these information. 

I have been suffering from dull headaches lately and went to the GP last Friday. I wasn't told anything but was given a prescription for pain killers. I wouldn't want to take those if I can help it. I was told that he will refer me to a Neurologist in Heatherwood or Windsor but meanwhile, make an appointment to see an optician to get my eye tested.

I think my headache is due to information overload and perhaps a dash of old age on the side. Do I finally need glasses after dodging it for years? I am the only one in the family who doesn't need glasses or contact lenses. Looks like I am not that lucky after all.

Back to Alex, we had a letter from Meath School in Surrey confirming our visit date and we are bringing one of Alex's teachers with us to see if the school could offer what Alex needs.

Will update when we see the school but we have done our own research and the school received great report from OFSTED and has a very good reputation.

Out of curiosity, I googled Apraxia misdiagnosed Autism. Here is an interesting article:

What is the Difference Between Apraxia and Autism?

Posted in Health & Fitness on May 5th, 2008

Apraxia and autism are two entirely different neurological disorders which can occur in a child independently of one another, or together in the same child.  While autism’s symptoms can impact and impair many different systems, behaviors, and thought patterns, apraxia occurs when the child struggles to plan and carry out voluntary physical movements. 

In terms of gross motor skills, apraxia may impact a child’s capabilities to stand up, sit in a chair, or catch a ball and with fine motor skills, a child may not be able to zip up a jacket, button a shirt, write or print, or even point at an object.

Children with apraxia may also struggle to produce sound patterns to make words, or even coordinate the various speech mechanisms to make the individual speech sounds such as the difference between a “g” and a “b” sound, or the hum of an “m” sound.  Even when a sound is modeled, a child with apraxia may not be able to mimic the same sound. 

However, though these symptoms may also cross over into autism, there remain important differences between the two conditions.  For example, when a child has only apraxia it is only the motor functioning and not the social and emotional skills that are impacted, as is often not the case with autism.

Apraxia and autism can become difficult to tell from one another when the child is exhibiting symptoms of verbal apraxia (officially known as oral-motor apraxia).  The reason for this is that children with either condition can be very aware of their struggle to communicate verbally, and therefore they may choose to avoid having to talk by staying away from social situations.  However, in the case of verbal apraxia, if you play with your child and don’t demand speech from him or her, you may find that they begin playing actively and engage others in their play. 

The child usually experiences relief from being able to socialize and have contact with others without being required to talk, which is frustrating for them and can create a fear of failure.  Often, with these children, when they are allowed to select the type of play and are allowed to go without having to speak, the relief and comfort they feel can make them more open to accepting the slow introduction of new sounds and syllables, which may eventually bring about simple words into their favorite games and play. Encouragement to vocalize or verbalize should be gentle in both apraxia and autism, and should be gradual, tailored to the pace of success rather than to a schedule.

In both motor apraxia and autism, children show social interaction problems, but in the case of motor apraxia, this is normally because they are not always capable of performing the physical movements that allows them access to others.  However, motor apraxia won’t usually make a child want to avoid social interaction altogether, such as failing to make eye contact, or specifically moving away from other people. 

It is easy to see why there is so much confusion between apraxia and autism spectrum disorders.  Especially considering children with these conditions can also both exhibit signs of over-reactivity to sensations.   However, there are differences between the two and it is important to speak to your doctor or a specialist if you are unsure.  Your doctor will be able to determine which condition your child may have, or if both are present.

Grab your free copy of Rachel Evans’ brand new Autism Newsletter - Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you and your family find out about apraxia and autism and for information on levels of autismplease visit The Essential Guide To Autism.