Because we don't know what each other looks like, much less where we all live, here is a copy of my Xmas card insert for all of you.
If anyone else would like to share, I'd love a card in return :-)
2014. Is it gone already?
Here is the news. I graduated with my Masters of Physician Assistant Studies. I went solo to the ceremony and spent three blissful days without children. As I walked down the red-carpeted hockey stadium (GO HUSKERS), I wore power shoes and got to sit in the first row. I hid my phone in the sleeve of the gown, so it made up for having no pockets.
I now have another diploma hanging in my bathroom. Should you decide to come and see it, you’ll have the best seat in the house.
Collin is growing too fast. This isn’t the musings of a doting mother. He really is getting too big. We’ve lost the ‘cute card’ that lets us get away with autistic outbursts. I’m getting used to the stink-eye as people watch us pass. Usually I can say the ‘A’ word and they understand. When they don’t, I’m not especially concerned anymore.
Soon, I’m going to have to learn to shave him. Can’t wait. There’s no way I’m going to let him look like a half-Japanese terrorist and let him grow a beard. Any advice on how to get an autistic kid to hold still for electrolysis when he won't let a razor into the same zip code?
Sean loves to count fireflies, eat string cheese, tell on his brother, and romp in puddles. He destroyed a pair of blinky-tennis shoes this year because the temptation of a rainstorm was too much to resist. He still enjoys cuddling, and puts up his arms while whimpering, “Peep...peep. Baby Blue Bird is sad.” If Momma Blue Bird doesn’t fall in line and pick him up, his solution is to shout, “PEEP!” His imagination is impressive, and he assigns each of us roles to play. If he happens to be Dora, I’m Boots. Batman? I’m Robin. Another one of my roles has been Tails while he gets to play Sonic.
I’m always the sidekick. I got used to it after a while.
Collin is learning how to deal with his world, one mistake at a time. One example is swearing. He has taken to saying, “D**m it!” I interrupt and say, “That is a mad-sad word. Say, darn it!” “Holy Mackerel!” is approved for usage, but my favorite is, “Holy cow pies!” There have been a couple flops that I won’t name, but they are happening at home instead of school. At least I’m not getting anymore calls from his teacher. This all started with Collin calling her a b***h.
We blame the television. Those words aren’t being used at home. No, definitely not. Well, at least not the last one.
Mitch got some no-baby time this year and went to a convention to draw, relax, and drink. I stayed with the kids and got to pretend that I’m a stay-at-home Mom. Last month, I went to a writing conference in Chicago and spent most of my time visiting with friends. Despite my lack of participation in that conference, I’m still writing. I made my first short story submission to Brain, Child Magazine. We’ll see if I actually get paid. I’m planning on dinner out to celebrate. You’re invited. While I’d prefer sushi with a hundred of my closest friends, I’ll settle for a trip to Denny’s. If necessary, we’ll go to Rally’s and get a combo to share.
Blessings and all our wishes for a wonderful next year,
Mitch, Amy (Boots), Collin, and Sean (Dora)
