Ausome Weather?

Yes, I meant to spell that incorrectly.

When the weather starts to cool and we gather for family fun, the stress begins for families with neuro-typical kids. As a child, I remember hating the cold, but I have embracaed it, and it is now my favorite time of year. South Texas is rarely cold enough to use a heavy jacket over three days, but we make the most of it and stay cozy for as long as we can- sometimes outlasting the weather until the temperature of our home is significantly cooler that the warm Texas sun.

Winter and Spring- my favorite times of the year- bring upon the most anxiety. The sprouting greenery making everything new again bring upon swollen eyes, coughing, and nose bleeds. Darkened fall and winter skies bring heightened anxiety, the need for space, and inconsistent schedules due to holiday breaks. Keeping the kids active at this time is a struggle, but thank goodness for karate.

Picture this:

It's holiday break and all you need is some rest, but you hear the soft pitter-patter of bare feet pacing the floors of the house until they make their way closer to you and into your warm bed as you are startled with cold tiny toes warming themselves on your back. Yep, it's 6:30 a.m.! After some tossing, turning, and whispering, it's time to get up for breakfast. Children with Autism work on schedules, like clockwork. They say breakfast, but they mean iPad time, lots of personal space, and then eventually breakfast at 8:30 a.m. That's ok because it gives me time to make breakfast, have a warm cup of coffee that soothes my throat from a sinus infection, gives me time to prep all 4 supplements required to assist my son through the day, and talk to my youngest son.This gives me about an hour to figure out what they'll have for lunch and do it all over again.

Today, we have an appointment with a Bevaioral Pediatrician that we've waited 6 months to meet. This begins my frustration rant of the day- WHY DO WE LACK HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS TO ASSIST THE GROWING DEMAND FOR AUTISM ASSISTANCE? This is absurd. In the meantime, I read as much as I can on nutrition and how it can assist with symptoms becuase I believe it can help with my son's Autism and ADHD diagnosis. I hope it's not too crowded in the waiting area. Let's not forget the weather and need for space in an unfamiliar area. Wish us luck!