Be careful of what you wish for

I shouldn't be complaining as I have wish for this day to come.

Alex talking ..... and he can't stop!

He repeats, he tried to talk, he sings, he hums and he never stops until he goes to bed.

For the past few days, he has been using "ermmm" for everything you ask him. A few examples here that cracks me up. It may not sound that funny to parents with neuro typical children but it works for me.

We went to see my in-laws a few days ago because the family dog had to be put down because of old age. My in-laws were devastated and we took Alex to see them before school. Our little bod is a back seat driver and a very bossy one too. He tells me where to go by pointing at the direction and say "that way". On this occasion, we asked him which way to go .... and he said "ermmmm .... that way" all the way until we reached out destination.

He came to my bed this morning and gave me a kiss. He then said "mama go make apple juice" (this .... he has mastered and anyone could understand what he's saying) I played a trick on him and said "give me a very good reason why I should get out of my warm bed to the cold kitchen to get you a drink?" He looked confused ..... think for a bit and then he answered "ermmmmmm .... dada go make apple juice" I could not stop laughing and it was hilarious.

Well, since he asked nicely, Jeremy had to get up to make him juice. Well done mummy, another way to dodge responsibility and confuse your five year old.

Too many words Mummy .... but it was funny!

I'm all grown up and getting good at talking

I don't think I am like ordinary people when it comes to waking up in the morning .... that is until Alex came along.

In a perfect situation, your hear the birds singing, you open your eyes slowly and with a smile .... a little yawn and then a stretch.

OK ... mine is like #####Mummmmmmm ###### Click Clack Clock ######## Bang ##### Eyes popped opened and jump out of bed and run downstairs!

Well ... lucky for me it's not a typical morning but today sure is one that I just described. My son decided to grow up overnight making his own juice and breakfast.

When I came into the kitchen (I was still groggy), he already took the juice carton out of the fridge, and  trying to fill his bottle with it. He looked at me with a smile and said "elp".

I helped him with the juice and he said "Bar" mean breakfast bar. I gave him the bar and the juice, he went upstairs with them. I followed and then he sat on the floor and said "mama hur" means mama sit and pointing on the chair. He then hand me the bar and said "bar". I said .... "what do you say?"  He said "Mama (very carefully) ooo ppe (pause) pish open bar" He made sure that he said please and I was delighted and over the moon (smile). 

Alex is getting better at talking, although not very clear but he made a good attempt every time. When he watch tele, he will repeat what is said .... not very clearly but he did a great job. I am so proud of him.

Happy Birthday Mum

Alex's finally back to school after two days of school closure. 

The taxi was late to pick him up and while I was trying to contact the driver, my phone rang and it was Adrinna on the other end. I had to call her back as the taxi arrived immediately afters. 

We talked for awhile about calling my mum today ... singing the same birthday song to her - ha ha ha .... what are the odds? Well ... I only knew two and that would be 50/50 but having two siblings singing the same song? Hmmmmm 

After talking to my sister, I feel a bit melancholic and homesick. I haven't seen my mum for three years and that is a long time for a daughter to do. I hate it when I can't give her a hug on her special day or take her out for lunch or dinner or spend the day with her doing nothing. I missed my mum!

Jem and I decided that I should take Alex home with me this summer but I told him I cannot arrange for anything until we have confirmation that Meath is offering him a place in September. 

As a mum now, I realised how much we sacrifice for our children and never once thought that we needed anything in return. I know that my mum wouldn't want anything from us but having all her children by her side. She didn't say so .... she knew it would be selfish for her to ask.

I do hope that everything will fall into place with no obstacles and I can go home to see my mum and dad and my sisters and brother and nieces and nephews. For once, I craved for a noisy house where all the people that matters to me are together.

I pray ..... 

The wait is over!

Well .... the wait is finally over ... Alex's Occupational Therapy is finally happening. 

He is now officially in the system and will have a weekly appointment to see an OT for treatment. We waited 22 months for this and it's finally happening. 

Twelve months wait to see an OT for assessment and another 10 months wait to see an Occupational Therapist an hour a week ..... I don't know for how long. The country is short of OT and twenty two months wait is considered on target. At least that's one less thing to worry for now.

Alex had his first OT appointment today with Sam and Ann. 

Sam gave Alex a few exercises to do and he impressed the both of them. The last time Sam assessed Alex, he was way behind with his fine motor skills, not able to write or follow through with his assignment and a very short attention span. 

Alex is able to sit through the whole 45 minutes of the appointment this morning and performed every single task with good listening, talking and concentration.

He started with colouring, and we noticed that he used two hands but preferred the left one. Sam commented that ... since he preferred the left hand, we should encourage him to use the left one every time he picks up a pencil. This is to help the brain to concentrate on one hand to perform that particular task. He was then asked to copy what Sam was doing, drawing a line from top to bottom which he did brilliantly, and then across .... needed some help and then drawing a circle which he did a wonderful job.

He was also asked to draw a head with eyes, nose and mouth. Alex wanted Sam to draw the ears, body and leg as well .... Sam and Ann was really impressed with him. Ann commented that she can't wait to work with him. Both Jem and I was so proud of him .... we sat through the whole thing watching our son work his magic on these women.

Then came beading ... big beads and small beads ..... he sat there doing marvelously and his face was full of concentration. Both Jem and I could not help but gave a small chuckle as he look so cute with his serious face. He looked like a surgeon performing brain surgery - ha ha ha

After that came a few more dexterity test i.e using a scissor, picking small items, holding it in his palm etc. Finally physical movements starting with catching and throwing a ball and star jumps.

Conclusion: They need to concentrate on these areas - holding a pencil, holding a scissor and body awareness/balancing.

I think I missed out a few things as they did so much with him in such a short time. I guess we will get a report on today's assessment. His next appointment is on the 18th of this month and I hope to be able to video his session to share with anyone whose interested.

We cannot be prouder parents!

It's snowing and he's not going to school

(Picture 4 .... uploaded in wrong order) 

After much convincing and made a deal with Alex, he stood still and let me take a decent photo of him and his dad. 

(Picture 3) 

No Camera Please!

(Picture 2)

Look at Mummy, Alex!

(Picture 1)

This is the first decent photo of 2009. I had a hard time trying to get Alex

to look at the camera and smile. It's pure luck I got this one :-)

It's been snowing all of last night and this morning. We woke up to six inches of snow and this is the first time I have seen so much snow in 10 years of my life in UK.

Looking out the window, we saw neighbours' children playing outside with their sled and building snowman. I was a bit lazy and not so enthusiastic as Alex woke up at 5:30am and been coming in and out of our room between 5:30 and 8:00am. 

By the time I decided to get out of my comfy, warm duvet .... it was about 10:30am and thought I'll ring the school to find out if school's open. Alex had the day off!

Soon after, a text came to Jem's mobile phone .... it's from the school to inform us that schools close and to listen to local radio to find out if school's still close tomorrow. I thought that was a very good idea from school ... to inform parents of school's closure. Unfortunately, it was a bit too late as most parents would have found out the hard way ... showing up at school with children and found out that they had to take the kids home again. Not so easy for working parents as they had to find last minute sitters or had to call in sick or work from home.

Find it hard to understand how can life pause when it snowed in this day and age? What about people living in countries that snow all year? There had to be a way!

Anyway, decided to wrap Alex up in layer after layers of warm clothing (I could send him to Alaska) and let him play in the backyard .... by now, it's around 7 to 8 inches of snow. He loved it!

He spent a good hour outside playing with his dad and dragging the broom around the garden making a path to walk on. He was so adorable and I could just scoop him up and eat him alive .... hmmm that didn't sound right ..... anyway, mums know what I mean :-)

I love snow!

First step to freedom

I felt much better since my last blog. It took me a few days to get over that heavy feeling. I would like to thank everyone who wrote to me showing their concern and boosting my morale.

Let's see .... Alex definitely matured over the last week and I am so proud of him.

Last Friday, I took Alex with me to a Mummy's Group in Bracknell. We meet every Friday morning for two hours to discuss everything and anything .... sharing information on schools, treatment, etc. We all have special need children from genetic disorders to autism and down syndrome. Although our children have different difficulties, we all share one thing in common .... we want the best for our children. Having a support group gives us strength when we are weak, give us voice when we can't speak and give us courage when we are afraid. At some point, someone has gone through what you are going through ... everyone is not afraid to share and everyone benefits.

Anyway, the group provide a baby-sitting service while mummy chats and Alex was so good, he just went with the lady. He looked at me and then said "Bye bye Mummy" and didn't look back. An hour later, he came back with a drawing and was so pleased with himself. I am so proud of him as I was so afraid that he might not go. Looks like I worry too much :-)

On Tuesday morning, I had to attend *Dialogue Group* meeting.  Jeremy had to work and I arranged for my cousin June to watch Alex while I go for this meeting. It was really a hectic morning for me as I had to take him to June's at Maidenhead and then drive back to Bracknell for the meeting and then back again to Maidenhead to take Alex to Rainbow in Bracknell. It was all worth it as the meeting was a very good one and I also learn that my son is happy with June. 

Yippee ..... freedom at last (LOL) at least, if I need to go somewhere, June can watch him and she doesn't mind at all as she adores him. She offered many times in the past to babysit him but both Jem and I thought Alex wasn't ready. 

For some reasons, we made ourselves prisoners ... always thinking that Alex will not co-operate. We didn't give him the chance to and I must say it's mostly Jem's fault. He is the most amazing father and the most protective one too. I am glad that he is what he is but sometimes it could be a bit ..... trapped.

We also received a letter from Rainbow that Alex's Review meeting is in March and a representative from the LEA (Local Education Authority) will attend this meeting too. I hope everything will go well and I will update everyone of the outcome.

*Dialogue Group*

Every member of Dialogue Group has a special need child and we meet every two months with the local authorities to discuss our concerns and how to improve services in the Borough. Bracknell is considered one of the best authorities in the country providing the best service to special need children. This is because, the Authorities listen when we speak and we all want the best for our children without being unreasonable.

Running out of steam

It's one of those days that it's a struggle to remain positive and happy and shiny.

I have always been one to pick myself and the people around me up. I can't see the reason to remain low and unhappy when it doesn't really do anything to improve matters.

It takes a whole lot of energy and stamina to remain cheerful and looking at things in a positive way. The gloomy weather doesn't help and of course its one of those days in the month as well.

I had a call from Meadow Vale Primary to confirm our visit to their facilities on Tuesday, February 3rd. I spoke to Linda, the SALT who visited Alex at Rainbow to assess him. I asked for her honest opinion what she thinks of Alex and if there is a possibility that Alex would one day be coming back to mainstream education. I know it's hard for her to answer my question but I really need hope to keep me going.

She too feels that Alex is held back by his speech and not his autism as he was really happy and co-operative when working with her. She cannot see him going to mainstream school even with support from Language unit at this moment in time. All special need pupil attending mainstream must be able to cope without support for at least 40% of their time in school. Alex will not be able to cope.

Would Alex be able to come back to their facility if his speech improved after going to Meath .... say in the next two years? She hesitated for a moment and then said "Yes, perhaps and it depends if we have the place for him. We are full at the moment and it's too soon to tell". I can appreciate that but I am at my lowest ebb today, I need hope to bring me up.

It's hard to admit this but I am not all that strong. A friend asked me sometime ago, how do I remain strong and positive all the time? I told her, I cannot and it's not easy but moping won't help. 

Right, I better follow my own advise now and get on with my life. STOP feeling down and put your son to bed. Read him a book, give him a hug and take a nice shower and play some wordtwist. Tomorrow will be better.

Wishing for a Crystal Ball

Sometimes, I wish I have a Crystal Ball. I could look into it and see what my son would be like when he grows up. Can he talk? Will he lead a normal life? Have a family that adored him .... when we are no longer there?

I am not saying I want to fast forward time ... I love growing with my son and watch him blossom but I just cannot see beyond his difficulties at the moment. Just like the time when he wasn't potty trained. I worry that he may still be in nappy when he goes to school .... or when he refused to feed himself or when ............

A mother's worry mind will never rest. If we don't worry, are we fit to call ourselves mothers?

We went to Meath School again on Tuesday. We brought Alex and Mrs Dunn with us this time. Mrs Dunn is the closest to Alex among his teachers - since Day One at Rainbow. She asked questions that no other teachers would ask and you know she genuinely care and love our son.

At one point of our conversation, I said that Alex's receptive language is only mildly delayed and he understand everything we said. The Deputy Head, Ian said "I don't believe he understand everything you said" and to demonstrate that he does, Jeremy asked Alex to get him a tissue. The box was in front of the deputy head, Alex took one and looked at Ian to seek permission. When he got a nod from Ian, Alex smiled and gave the tissue to his Dad.

Ian then said that's very good but Jeremy pointed at the box, therefore Alex is just following his signal. I then asked Alex to get me a red cushion. I made sure I didn't point and Alex scan round the room and saw one by him, he took the cushion and walked to me. Ian was really impressed and Alex was very proud of himself.

To be honest, I don't really know what is best for my son. If he start his life at a special school, where will he go for secondary school? There isn't one near us which means he will have to go to a boarding school. I cannot bear that thought.

After touring the school again for Mrs Dunn's benefit, we went back to the discussion room. Mrs Dunn asked if they can see Alex in this school as every child will have to go through an assessment from Meath. Ian said he can but Alex still need to go through the assessment. Then, the crucial question came from Mrs Dunn, where will Alex go after Meath?

All of a sudden, I was awaken and Ian said that he may go to a language unit attached to a mainstream school. He thinks Alex's disability is on the milder end and his speech is holding him back.

I was really grateful to Mrs Dunn for asking the question as I wasn't brave enough to ask him myself. I was worried that he will tell me he cannot be sure as it was too early to tell. From one professional to another, he had to be honest to her. It was music to my ear and I went home feeling happier.

On Thursday, Becca rang us and spoke to Jem. She invited her colleague from the language unit from Meadow Vale Primary, a school near us, (No one told us about this school as everyone felt that the school cannot offer what Alex needed) to give a second opinion that Bracknell cannot offer the language support that Alex needed. Everyone agreed that Meath is the right place for Alex. Officially, they are not allowed to make recommendations but they all have Alex's best interest at heart. We are so grateful to everyone for helping us in this difficult period.

Becca also believe that Alex is held back by his speech and not his autism. She thinks that he is a very intelligent boy and hope Meath is the solution.

We know we are very lucky and I will never forget what everyone did for us.

Doing the right thing

Alex came home with another great report from Rainbow.

The report read: Alex has had a good afternoon. He listened to the story well. Alex chose to play in the new home corner. He painted. A good start to the new term.

Such an encouraging report and we have faith that things will get better. I believe going away from his comfort zone and a little bit of sunshine helped our son to grow and mature. 

                               ********************************************

I went out for a movie with my girlfriend Jane, tonight. Something happened ...... I don't know how to explain this but I saw a different side of myself and discovered that Jane and I are quite similar.

Jane and I agreed to meet at the Oracles at 5:30pm and we both arrived earlier. I rang her and she was in Boots while I was just getting out of the car. We decided to meet at Debenhams. I had to cross a bridge to meet her and I saw a homeless man sitting by the bench shivering. It was -2 degree Celsius and I could see this man struggling to keep warm even with a coat on. For what reason he sat there I do not know but I had to get away from the cold. I could not stop thinking of him and I felt a certain sadness in me. 

We had to cross the bridge again to go over the other side for dinner and cinema. I saw the man again and stopped. I told Jane I had to give him some money to get a coffee or something to keep warm. I could only find two pounds in the dark and gave it to him. Jane started digging as well and the man said don't worry as he doesn't want money. Jane gave him a couple of pounds as well as she couldn't find much in her purse. The man gave us a nod thanking us and I believe that if he had a choice, he wouldn't be sitting in the cold. He doesn't look like a typical homeless man .... he was well kempt but I guess there is a story behind this. I guess he could be one affected by this dreadful economy or he is down on his luck. 

Anyway, we went for dinner and where we sat, Jane could see this man. He sat there for awhile and a man walked over to him and they talked for a few minutes. Jane could not sit still as she used to be a social worker and knew what its like to be homeless. We discussed if we should get this man some food as the money we gave him isn't enough to get a cup of coffee in this area. I knew she is not going to rest until she get this man some food. 

When we got out of the restaurant, he was still sitting on the bench. Jane and I went the other way to get to McDonalds to get this man some food and tea. When we got the food and walked over to the bridge, the man left.

Both Jane and I were disappointed but we hope the best for this man. Perhaps, he was invited to a shelter and keep warm for the night? From the way he was dressed, this is a new thing for him. His duffel bag looked clean and his Jacket as well. Perhaps ..... he just lost his job and his home ..... I do not know but I pray that this man will be OK.

Baaack to school

Seemed like a long time ago I last updated my blog. It's this darn weather you know.

We had the coldest weeks in 30 years and some places went as cold as -10 degree Celsius. We had our heating on all day and boy .... will we flip when the bill comes.

I can count the number of times I went out the front door since we got back ..... in one hand!

Alex is back to school today and he settled right in. His report read: Alex has had a settled afternoon. He has been more vocal, attempting a wider range of sounds. The focus letter is J. Alex ate some jelly. The focus story is Jack and the Beanstalk.

When he got back from school, Alex went to his corner and 'stim' for 5 minutes before he was ready to hug and cuddle - that was his 'me' time. School must have stimulated his rested mind, so much that he needed to do that. He begged to go to bed at six-ish but I refused to let him and delayed till seven (this is unheard of) because .... I know he will wake at five!

Alex's latest craze ..... Shaun the Sheep. He laughed like a mad man when he watch that DVD. He was first introduced to Shaun at Auntie Wendy's when we last visited her before our holidays. And when we were on the plane, Shaun was on one of the channels and again, he laughed like a mad man. When we got back and visited his grandparents, someone gave 'Pops' a Shaun DVD for Christmas and they naturally switch that on for Alex. Again, Alex laughed so hard that delighted his grandparents. They let him keep the DVD.

For the second time in two days, Alex wanted to watch Shaun .... again.

Baaaaaaaaaaa Bob the Builder to the baaaaaaack shelf!

Where are my fingers?

2009 ...... I have a feeling that this is going to be a good year. 

It's the 2nd of January today and I have 2 things to celebrate. Firstly, Alex's sleeping pattern changed since our return and he now sleeps from 8:00pm to 7:00am. Secondly, Alex wants to talk more and even played pretend.

Just this morning, or should I say half and hour ago (I am so excited that I want to share with you), Alex came to my bed and we had a cuddly moment while Daddy slept next to us. I taught Alex to count with his fingers by folding and unfolding them. It then turned into a game.

He folded all his fingers and said "Oh Oh" and I said, "Where are your fingers?" He said, "Nana Ouse". I then said, "We better ring Nana and ask for your fingers back?" 

Alex said "Allo ... Nana? Can ar aff ma mm mm back? Bye bye Nana" and he unfolded his fingers and said "Ahhhhhhh" in surprise. I acted surprised and the game went on with calling Pops (his grandad) for his fingers back and then Dada, Mama, Cher Cher, Ber Er and Uncle Bill.

It was just too cute to not write about it. I am immensely proud of my son and I just want to share my joy.

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!