Summer vacation and autism!

Summer Vacation and Autism!

     

     Obviously, it is now summer and I thought I would write while I was vacation.  I didn't write while I was on vacation, simply because I didn't want to take away valuable family time!  I love my family and it's hard to balance work, a personal life, and some quiet time with my husband so I relish the time we get while on vacation.  We still act like we just met (we have been married for two years), and I am beyond blessed to have this wonderful man in my life.  God is good.  I never thought I could be married to someone who just gets me, because I can be a complicated person.  One of my very good friends told me years ago when he met me that I was the "creative thinker" and he was the "black and white thinker".  I knew what he meant-- he got to the point and didn't embellish what he was thinking, but I liked to be creative when I was talking.  You would get this concept if you knew me, which I think most of you know me personally already.  I am just one of those people that think outside of the box and ask a lot of questions!

     Summer vacation has been wonderful!  I signed up Cole for a summer camp called H.E.R.O.E.'s back in March, as it is a wonderful camp for kids who have autism and learning/physical disabilities.  My family and I love to travel, so we had to cancel our camp plans for Cole.  A lot of my friends send their kids to camp and I even grew up going to camp, but for Cole, he needed a break from camp/school.  I love summer, simply because I need to rest and take a break.  I know if I had a difficult kid, he would be scheduled for everything in the Dallas/Fort Worth area until school starts, but I have an angel.  Cole loves his family, he loves staying home, but most of all he loves to travel.  Early in Cole's life, we were able to provide him the gift of travel which has expanded his life and how he sees it.  I thoroughly believe he learns so much more while we are taking road trips (or flying to New York), than attending camp.  This doesn't mean Cole does not have structure.  We have three chore charts in our house and if Cole doesn't do his chores around the house, he doesn't get to have an extra thirty minutes with his electronics.  We also make sure Cole looks at his calendar every day to see what he has planned.  Cole loves his friends and we are blessed to have some great ones!

     You probably are wondering where we travel in the summer and our main vacation spot is:  WALT DISNEY WORLD!  I didn't put this in the title, simply because I wanted to make sure you read this post :).  My husband fell in love with Walt Disney World when we took our first trip in 2011 and we have been going back every year.  We have stayed all over the Orlando/Kissimmee area for our vacation, but I think this was our best vacation EVER!  We researched the best area (closest to Disney), found the best hotel set-up for us, and booked our hotel in April.  We knew we were going to stay for two weeks, so we wanted an apartment or two bed-room suite that had a kitchen.  We have never taken a vacation without Cole, so it was important to us to have that adult time and our own rooms.  Cole LOVED having his own bedroom!  He called it his apartment and in his bedroom, he set it up like home.  We are beyond blessed to have such a creative child who knows what he wants.  He put his stuffed animals-- all thirty of them-- on the other bed in his room, and kept one with him in his bed.  The hotel staff couldn't have been friendlier and the room was sound-proof!

     The best advice I can give you as a mom who travels a lot, read reviews from Trip Advisor and other travel websites before your book your hotel.  Actual people write reviews about their stay and this has really helped me when booking a hotel.  We requested the fourth or fifth floor, simply because all of the reviews said the first and second floors were very noisy because of the bar and pool on the first floor.  The reviews have helped me a lot when looking for that "perfect hotel" for our vacations.  The other bit of information I can give you is be prepared in advance to go with the flow, which can be hard when you have a child with autism.  Disney World, much to my chagrin, changed their disability policy last October due to people abusing it.  You can still receive a disability pass at any guest services in the Park, but you have to get your pass signed and come back at your appointed ride time.  Cole did much better this time, simply because they also have the Fast Pass + option.  This option, Fast Pass Plus, is a God-send to parents like me.  This new feature lets you pick three rides at the Park you are going to for the day and it assigns you specific ride times.  We would plan our day accordingly when we received our Fast Pass times and it worked out for us, for the most part.  What you can't plan on is the weather in Florida!  Sometimes it rains for hours (which stinks if you have a water park planned for the day), but other times, it can just rain for ten minutes.  Make sure to give your child and family options when it rains.  We knew if it rained, we would head over to Downtown Disney and Disney Quest because it would be open.  Make sure to always have a back-up plan, simply because if you don't, expect a melt down.  We were very lucky on our vacation.  Cole didn't have one big meltdown, and I think it was because we planned in advance for it.  You can't think of everything, but if you plan in advance for a trip like Walt Disney World, you will be better equipped to handle the meltdowns.

     Did I mention I love summer?  I love being home and I love teaching during the summer!  I have two students that I love to teach during the summer, simply because they love music so much.  These kids bring me joy and I feel blessed to continue to inspire them!  I hope in the future to open a music school (totally dreaming here) that is dedicated to students who have learning disabilities, such as autism.  Music is what inspires my son.  Music inspires me to do great things with my life and to continue to educate our youth of tomorrow.  I may not be a great teacher, but I feel I inspire others to be their best.  I know if music doesn't get to you (any kind of music!), then you don't have a passion for it.  I get that.  However, you can't tell me when you hear that song on the radio that makes you cry, it inspires you do something better with your life.  Life can get crazy and hectic in our house, but if you take the time to stop, enjoy the moment, and realize life goes by so quickly, you will enjoy your life more.  Our vacations are wonderful, simply because of Cole.  Cole sang the ENTIRE WAY to Florida (think two days for ten hours each day).  He sings like an angel.  His new favorite song is "Over the Rainbow" and he sung this a lot while we were driving.  The version he is learning of this classic song, as made famous by Judy Garland, is sung by Hawaiian native (now deceased) is Israel "IZ".  Check out the original YouTube link here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_DKWlrA24k.  The irony of our vacation is that when we were leaving, it rained.  Guess what showed up?  Not one, but two rainbows.  I believe God is speaking through my Cole.  Was this a God thing?  I think it was!  

     Our next vacation:  Galveston with my parents, brother, sister-in-law, and my awesome nephew Dylan, and gorgeous niece Rylie!  This has become our go-to place every year since I was a baby and I thank my grandparents, Nanny and Granddaddy Compton, for taking us as children.  Those road trips to Galveston were the best because of the memories we made with Nanny and Granddaddy.  I reminisce about my Grandparents, simply because they were phenomenal people.  I was blessed God called them to adopt my mom at two weeks old.  They were the best Grandparents a girl could have.  Cole asks about them a lot, simply because he sees pictures of them and knows who they are.  Families can be messed up, simply because they don't receive the unconditional love they needed as a child.  I have been blessed by God to have had a wonderful family and now Cole has that gift:  an amazing and wonderful family who love him beyond words.  My husband can't join us in Galveston, but he always gives us his blessing.  We love you sweetheart and will miss you!  However, that being said, I can't WAIT to see my niece and nephew.  Galveston bound in ten days!!!!!!!!

Advocating For Change

Advocating For Change

     

     Cole is now officially a 7th grader!  Graduation was a rite of passage not only for Cole, but for all of the families involved with this momentous occasion.  I am exhausted, but happy that my son made it through sixth grade without too many meltdowns this past month.  Obviously, the last day was emotional simply because people are moving onto different schools and we won't see our friends at Merriman Park on a daily basis.  The reality is now sinking in that time flies by in an instant.  My son is now a seventh grader and within a blink of an eye, he will be a senior in high school ready to conquer the world (or so I think).  What many parents often don't understand about autism and the families it affects is the long-term.  What are we going to do for Cole when he turns 18 and he has graduated from high school?  Just yesterday, I was talking with other parents about trade school and how it is not emphasized enough in junior high or high school.  There are many kids that don't want to go to college, or don't know what they really want to do with their life after high school.  Some parents know about trade or vocational school, and agree with me that a lot of students would benefit from them.  

     The main question I am addressing here is how do we as a community embrace those schools and companies that want to train and hire people to work straight out of high school?  Simple:  educate middle school and high school counselors/staff members about the importance of job skills that can be utilized inside and outside a classroom.  I know when I was in high school, we took these "tests" that told us what we should focus on after we graduate from high school.  By now, you know that I don't like tests because they don't measure what one is capable of doing or achieving in life.  When I took this test, it said I would be a great lawyer or teacher.  Really?  I considered law school briefly, but I wanted to be a professional singer.  I don't know if these tests are accurate, but obviously I became a teacher.  I do ponder going back to school to become a lawyer, but I just don't think I have it in me.  God has called me to be Cole's mom and that is a full time job.  Our world needs to realize and embrace that "college is not a one size fits all" solution for those that have learning differences or physical disabilities.  I know many kids in Cole's general education class that would benefit from home economics and shop class, simply because they don't have that drive to go to college.  We need electricians, mechanics, chefs, and hair dressers just as much as we need lawyers, doctors, and teachers.  Our world is a big melting pot of culture and diversity (especially in this great state of Texas).  We need to emphasize job skills and promote this diversity in our school and work environment, simply because our world needs so many people to wear different hats.  My son is brilliant on computers and I tell him every day, you can either be a singing superstar (he wants to play Frankie Valli in "Jersey Boys") or a computer genius working for Non-Pareil Institute.  He is happy to pick both of these jobs, simply because he loves both equally.

     This blog was created to address certain concerns and needs parents have when their child has autism.  I am not an expert or claim to be an expert when it comes to the medical side of diagnosing and treating autism, therefore these next comments are simply statements I believe as a mom.  Just this week, I have had parents ask me, "when did you know Cole had autism?".  My gut was telling me that something wasn't right when he was 3 1/2 years old.  I thought Cole's lack of communication was due to many ear infections (12 in one year) and that he might be slightly deaf, due to these ear infections.  Cole's pediatrician never addressed autism, simply because Cole didn't show the signs of autism until he was four years old.  Cole could point to things and say "want", but I was helping him communicate.  Autism was not in the public eye ten years ago, so I didn't really know what autism was.  The local magazine, "Dallas Child", ran an article about autism when Cole was four, and I read it over and over. I thought this article addressed autism, from a clinical point of view, but as a mom, I was still in denial.  There were so many traits that Cole did NOT exhibit as a child with autism.  He said hello, gave hugs and kisses to me, made eye contact when we would take  his picture, he loved to eat and had a very well-balanced diet (most kids with autism are very picky eaters), and he loved to dance!  I did notice, however, that Cole lined up his toys, did not maneuver the stairs well, and had very limited speech.  These three things made me wonder if Cole had autism.  Robert Giesler told me that Cole needed help.  We are continually blessed by this man and I honestly don't know what I would have done without him or his knowledge.  I asked Robert if he had ever heard of autism and he said yes, but that he didn't know much about it.  I next turned to the internet and I wished I hadn't.  The internet should not be your "go-to", one stop shop for everything.  I say this with conviction (even though this blog is on the internet!), do NOT read everything or believe everything you read online.  The best advice I received was from a friend: "Make sure Cole is social.  The best thing you can do for your son is to make sure he has friends, even if it's just one best friend."  This was the best piece of information I could have ever received.  Dr. Merrill (she is my dog's vet and her nephew has autism) is one of the sweetest people I know and because of her, Cole is one popular guy!  

     I have been crying all week, simply because it has been such an emotional roller coaster this year.  I never thought in a million years we would not graduate from Merriman Park Elementary without Laurie Taylor.  She was Cole's advocate, voice, and friend.  This Principal was one of those people that comes into your life for a reason-- God put her there.  I was so disillusioned this year by the lack of warmth, sincerity, or lack of understanding from the current Principal at Merriman Park Elementary.  This blog was not created to bash the Principal, even though some people think it was.  My son deserved better treatment this year.  I was angry the first two months of school, simply because I couldn't get any answers from her as to why Cole's I.E.P. was not being followed.  I did not want to throw Cole's D.P. teacher under the bus, because she was new and a very sweet person.  I now know how strong I am, simply because I felt like David from "David and Goliath".  I may be just one voice, but if other parents like me speak up, we will see change.  Change may not be tomorrow or even next year, but change is coming.  I firmly believe and stand by my convictions as a mom and autism advocate that change is coming to R.I.S.D., simply because there are so many of us that are not going to be quiet.

     Okay, so it's time to grab a kleenex for these next two paragraphs.  Cole went from being this shy kid at White Rock Elementary as a kindergartner and has blossomed into this amazingly, talented young man at Merriman Park Elementary.  There were many people that have changed Cole's life and have richly blessed our lives as well.  Rhonda Barnes was Cole's very first kindergarten teacher and she was the perfect fit for him.  Cole next moved onto Heather Miller's PPCD Kindergarten class and she was a very good fit for Cole.  Cathy Hanson was Cole's D.P. teacher for his first and second grade years at MPE and we still love this woman!  Pat Minter was Cole's private speech therapist from K-6th grade and I don't know what we would do without her.  Allison Ausema was Cole's D.P. teacher for part of second grade, third grade, and fifth grade.  Allison was one of those rare gems that you find who really helped Cole blossom as an individual.  Mr. Larry Owens was Cole's teacher (just like Allison, he started as an Aide) for fourth grade.  Mr. Larry was an incredible teacher and had the kindest heart.  We miss Larry, but we know he is doing great!  Leslie Dominie was not Cole's teacher, but was a great upper level D.P. teacher at MPE.  She demanded and expected her students to always do their best.  

     I would also like to mention those aides that have really impacted Cole's life, simply because they are the ones that are in the trenches every day with these kids.  Danielle Lawhorn, you are the perfect example of God's love.  You give to all of your kids, without expecting anything in return. This woman has been my rock, simply because she always has my back and Cole's.  Sarah Krolczyk, you love Cole unconditionally and still do.  I was (and still am) convinced that Cole would not be potty-trained if it wasn't for you!  Christie Young was new this year, but she stepped in like she had known the kids all her life.  She is a giving and wonderful person and I am a better person because of her.  Mr. Victor, oh Mr. Victor!  He was the first person we met at Merriman Park Elementary and had a heart of gold.  Mr. Victor left last year, due to health problems, but he was a man of God.  Mr. Dalone was in our life for a brief time, but he tried to help all of the D.P. students.  Amy Foxman, the current behavioral teacher (her second year) at MPE is the smallest person with arms of steel!  She has the most amazing spirit, loves her kids, and gives so much back to MPE that we will truly miss her warm smile and positive attitude next year.  One other person I would like to thank is Mrs. P-B.  This woman is a saint.  She is one of the resource teachers at MPE and pushed Cole to always do his best.  Sometimes Cole did not like to work, but Mrs. P-B always made sure he got it done, without too many meltdowns.  Mrs. P-B was there for me this year when Cole would have his meltdowns (at school and at home).  She has this calming nature that could soothe a crying baby to sleep.  Cami Welch, another great Resource teacher at MPE, gave her time and heart to Cole.  Cole loves Ms. Welch, simply because she loves music and she loves Cole.  Aileen Holman, where do I even begin to start?  She is the speech therapist at MPE and always told me about Cole's day.  I don't really know how to put into words what she means  to me.  Thank you to all of these people (including Principal Laurie Taylor, Coach Brooks and Mrs. Becca Bryan) for enriching our lives and helping Cole be the best young man a mom could ever hope for!

     Cole received a standing ovation at graduation and I was in tears  when I witnessed this amazing outpouring of love.  Cole is loved.  As a parent, I am overwhelmed by how far Cole has come since kindergarten and am truly blessed by how many friends he has.  Cole says all of his boys are his best friends and that he can't just pick one.  I feel like I continue to advocate for Cole, but Cole now has a voice and it is a strong one!  He amazes me with his spirit, his positive attitude, but most of all, his unconditional love.  He loves EVERYONE.  I hope I have had something to do with that, simply because I try to live my life as God would want me to:  love unconditionally.  Sometimes love hurts.  I have trusted many people in my life, but I have learned the hard way that sometimes I should have listened to my inner voice.  There are some people in this world that just don't care who they hurt, simply because they think they are right.  I really feel for those people that don't have support at home, simply because as an adult, they are going to raise snobby, selfish, and mean kids.  I hope I encourage kids on a daily basis to always do their best.  This world is a better place because of my Cole.  Thirteen years ago I was pregnant with this amazing kid and I wouldn't change my life for anything.  Cole is who he is, simply because he knows he is loved unconditionally.  That is a great feeling! I am so proud of my son and I look forward to our next journey:  Forest Meadow Junior High!!!!!!!!!

6th Grade Graduation: Reality

6th Grade Graduation:  Reality

     We only have four days of school left and I, for one, am ready for this school year to be over!  I used to look forward to that last day of in-service as a teacher, but I now view the world differently as a mom of a student who has special needs.  I just finished reading a very good article about two boys that have a special bond.  Devin has autism and his best friend is Nick, who is his connection to the outside world (Nick doesn't have autism).  I started tearing up after reading this article, simply because it describes Cole's relationship with Archer.  Cole now has over 20 friends in the general education classroom, simply because he loves his friends.  This would not have been accomplished without a lot of work, patience, and love.  Archer and his family love Cole like he is their son.  They are special people.  Without this family, we would not have gotten this far in life (speaking, interacting, and having play dates with other kids).  I commend this family for opening their hearts and home to Cole and to my family.  We love them and can't wait to see what junior high school holds for them!

     I am tired, exhausted, and emotionally drained from this school year.  I didn't expect to be so tired, simply because I thought Cole would have a great school year.  We have been through a lot, but we are in the home stretch of seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.  I can say I was very confused about the beginning of the school year.  Cole didn't attend open house (like he has done since kindergarten) last summer because he was just getting over a very bad sinus infection-- borderline pneumonia.  In some ways, I don't know if it would have helped Cole's transition into sixth grade by going to open house.  Cole was very surprised by the change of the building and first asked me, "Mom, where is all of the artwork?  Why are we in a hospital?".  The building itself has been through a major makeover and it looked like a hospital-- which Cole hates.  The walls were white, there was no celebration board, but most of all, there was this coldness when you walked into Merriman Park Elementary.  Cole was confused, I was confused, and so were all of the other students and parents.  By now, if you have been reading my blog, change can be very challenging for kids who have autism.  This change was not good.  Cole didn't want to go to school, simply because he was scared.  He told me every day for the first two months, "Mom, I don't want to go to school.  I don't do anything and it feels like a hospital."  I did figure out he was telling me the truth about not doing anything.  He was wandering in the cafeteria the first four weeks of school for the first hour, because the other students in his class needed to eat breakfast.  Once I found this bit of information out, I demanded change.  Cole started his first hour of class the next day with his general education teacher.  

     The best advice I can give anyone is to be pro-active as a parent and advocate.  You know your child the best.  Don't question yourself, even if you are scared of authority.  I know a few people that don't stand up to administration, simply because they don't feel like they will be heard.  I know firsthand that if you don't stand up to the big man on campus, there won't be change.  You may not see that change immediately, but if parents came together for the common good of their child and demanded change, their voice will be heard.  There are so many people and families that have come to me to ask for help.  I am not a lawyer.  I am a mom on a mission to help ALL CHILDREN do their best in school.  Parents need to demand change for their child, if they see them suffering in school.  Bullying is becoming common-place, simply because of the internet.  I was horrified to hear that one of Cole's friends (who is in the general education classroom) was bullied-- and not just any type of bullying.  Kids have been told these exact words, "go ahead and kill yourself, simply because this world would be a better place without you in it".  Where are kids hearing this crap?  I have warned parents and advised them to keep an eye on their children's internet activity.  We live in a scary world, but when fifth and sixth graders are coming out with this garbage, I only wonder what is going on in junior high and high school.  I hate the fact that parents are not aware of what their kids are doing at school.  I have seen kids tormented at Cole's school this year.  Some kids are in tears, simply because of  mean words.  Kids can be cruel.  Sometimes those tears can be fake, simply because they want attention, but a lot of the time, it's real.  

     Talk to your children on a daily basis.  I was told that we should sit down with Cole everyday for at least fifteen minutes and ask him about his day.  I have done this for the last two years and he has opened up to me.  Cole is not a child with many words, simply because he has so much on his mind-- singing, playing Minecraft, and setting up our house like Times Square in New York City for the "ball drop".  However, I cherish those fifteen minutes with my son, simply because I know I will never be able to get them back.  He tells me things like, "How are you today mom?  How was your day?  Let's talk about you because I had an okay day".  Cole is really the most incredible kid, simply because he picks up on my mood, without missing a beat.  He knows when I am sad, happy, angry or frustrated.  He gets sad when I get sad.  He is happy most of the time, simply because I am a happy person.  His daddy is a happy person and always has a smile on his face!  We live in a cynical world, but I am fortunate enough to realize how blessed I am.  My son has autism.  Autism does not define Cole.  Cole, and many others who live with autism, have great lives.  Be a mentor to kid that looks like they need an extra hand.  Love everyone, even if they don't love you back.  I have tried to teach Cole and his friends that "all you need is love".  My son is my world and I am beyond blessed to have the most amazing husband who supports us in everything we do.  Find your voice, speak up, and don't be complacent.  We are now in a great place, simply because I have never given up on Cole.  We are excited about our new journey into middle school and can't wait to see what's in store for us!  Forest Meadow Junior High, watch out!  Cole Warren is going to change the world...............

When Words Fail, Music Speaks

When Words Fail, Music Speaks

  There are times that I question my sanity.  We have had quite a roller coaster year, since forming the two bands "Bebop Girls" and "Cole Warren and the Jambox Boys".  I love all of the kids that are in both of these groups, simply because they love coming over to Cole's house.  I am grateful for music, simply because it gave Cole a voice and now a very active social life.  My new mantra I live by is this:  "When words fail, music speaks".  I woke up one morning this year and thought of this concept.  Cole really didn't speak until he was eight years old.  I prayed daily that I could find something that would break through that non-verbal wall and he would talk to me.  Cole said a few words when he was a toddler:  "pizza, Star Wars, Daisy (our dog)", but mostly he did his countdown from Dick Clark's New Years Rockin' Eve.  Each day I would wake up and pray that Cole would say something different, besides counting down from 60-1, "Happy New Year 2005".  Cole's language deficits were very frustrating to me, but since I had a strong faith, I just let God lead me to the next doctor who I thought could help us.  What I know now vs. what I knew then is simply this:  let your child shine in no matter what they do, even if it's a New Year's countdown.  Cole now downloads music, listens to Ryan Seacrest on his radio talk show, tells me about Dick Clark and how he's his favorite celebrity, and also who pushes the button with Mayor Rudy Giualliani or Mayor Michael Bloomberg.  Cole said the reason he loves the song "Imagine" so much is because he first heard it on Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve.  I was worried about Cole when Dick Clark died in 2012, simply because I knew he would be sad.  Each day, Cole asks me "Mom, when did Dick Clark die?"  My reply is, "Cole you tell me.  Why do you ask?".  This small conversation gets me excited, simply because Cole is asking me questions, he knows what he wants to say, and he tells me how much he misses Dick Clark.  Now added to that list are Buster Cooper (my former tap dance teacher and extraordinaire) and Jerry Nelson (the voice of Count von Count from Sesame Street).  I know music and the countdown are the reason my Cole speaks.  I now can't shut him up, simply because he had all of this knowledge bottled up and he is still trying to get it out.

     We have been so fortunate to have so many wonderful teachers grace our lives.  By now, you know that Robert and Dottie Giesler are very important people in our lives.  Just to remind you, Robert was my high school principal at Woodrow Wilson High School.  Dottie is his better half and we are so blessed to know both of these people.  Without them, I don't think I would have gotten this far in life.  There are certain teachers that leave a mark on your lives and you never forget them.  Armelia King is one of those teachers that left a very positive and lasting impression on my life.  She was a mentor, coach, and amazing teacher.  She was tough, but she had to be tough because she taught middle school science.  I love this woman, simply because she was the greatest teacher of all time, in my eyes.  I have been blessed to reconnect with her daughter, Dottie-- yes Dottie (not Robert's wife), and have been fortunate enough to see both Coach King and Dottie this past month.  Sometimes there are circumstances that prevent a person from reconnecting with your loved ones.  I thank God each and every day Dottie and I found each other again, simply because she was such a great friend to me at J.L. Long Middle School and her mom was such an important part of my life.  I am one lucky woman who counts her blessings every day.

     Today, as I woke up I prayed for Becca Bryan and her family.  This is one teacher who is like Armelia King.  She loves all of her students at Merriman Park Elementary and she thinks of ways to keep her students engaged in learning.  She is the music teacher at Merriman Park Elementary and she is moving onto greener pastures.  I can't say I didn't see this coming.  Becca is the most inspiring music teacher I have ever met.  She gets life.  She loves her husband and kids with every breath she takes.  She loves music, but most of all, she loves my Cole.  She tells me every day what he says at school, how much he helps her, what he does in her class (he has Becca twice a week), and how all of the students love Cole.  She gets it.  She is one of those contagious people that I love, simply because I think she loves to teach music.  Merriman Park Elementary is going to lose a lot of great teachers this summer, simply because of the changes that were made to this great school a year ago.  I knew Becca was going to leave Merriman Park.  She didn't tell me she was going to leave.  I could read her like a book.  I knew if there was something better out there, she would take it.  I have witnessed great teaching, great music educators, and great artists come into my life, but Becca is one of those rare breed of teachers that inspires me every day.  I dream about a world filled with Becca Bryan's and Phil Bryan's (her husband), simply because they are great people and great teachers.  She has inspired me to write this blog, simply because she believed in me.  Episcopal School of Dallas is going to have a treasure of a teacher.  Becca's presence is going to be missed at Merriman Park Elementary.  I really can't put into words what she has done for MPE and my son, simply because I could write a book about her and her impact she has made at MPE in two short years.  I will be forever grateful for Becca and Judith Kline (the part-time MPE music teacher) for encouraging Cole to always do his best.  They are inspiring and amazing teachers.  I pray for Becca every day, simply because she is one of those people that prays for me.

     This post will now be wrapping up and we have only six days of school left!  I am swamped, overwhelmed, and simply amazed by how many activities the 6th graders have at Cole's school.  I am now in the final stages of making sure the kids get their choreography right, memorize their lines, and remember their words when they are singing!  Did I mention that Cole is singing "Imagine" for his solo at his final Merriman Park Elementary talent show?  I am truly blessed God picked me to be Cole's mom.  Cole is the most amazing young man.  I know if you met him, you would love him too.  Give your child a chance.  Know that if your child doesn't speak it doesn't mean they don't have anything to say.  They have to find their voice in something they love.  Cole found his voice in music.  I love the fact that I am an opera singer and that Cole loves to sing.  I don't teach Cole how to sing-- he teaches himself.  I could hire somebody to give Cole private voice lessons, but he knows how to sing.  This kid amazes me every day.  He gets life.  He understands what love is.  He loves being Cole.  I wish our world was filled with people like Becca Bryan and Cole Warren.  They make this place a better world to live in.

Life As We Know It

Life As We Know It

     

     I have made some great choices in life, but if I didn't have the proper guidance and discipline I may have turned out just awful (like some of my friends).  There are some people I grew up with that had parents that were there for them, but for all the wrong reasons.  I wonder now if those parents regret the decisions they made in regards to their parenting skills.  My brother and I always knew growing up that if we screwed up, that phone call would be coming to my mom.  My mom was one of those parents that are known today as a "helicopter" parent.  I believe I am one of those helicopter parents, which is NOT a bad thing.  I have friends that have now died due to drug addiction, suicide, or just made bad choices, simply because they had parents that thought about themselves before their kids.  I now see some of these "friends" that I grew up with who are now parents, and I just wonder if they are making the same parenting mistakes their parents made.  One of my best friends I grew up with is no longer one of my friends, simply because she didn't know how to keep her mouth shut.  She tried to be a good friend to me, but I think in all honesty, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.  I would say to my friends (who are really aren't my friends) that I grew up with, PARENT YOUR KIDS.  Don't be their best friend.  Don't try to be one of the kids.  Discipline your kid and their friends.  They will appreciate it in the long run and you are doing yourself a favor. My son has one of those friends that needs very strict parenting, but I can't do it because I am not his mother.  He needs guidance, but most of all, he craves that attention from his mom.  I look back on my life and I thank God every day that I had a mom that was always there for me, simply because I think I am a pretty awesome mom due to her parenting skills.  I am eternally blessed that I also have the most wonderful Mother-in-law too, simply because she gave me the most awesome husband!

     We have eight days until school is out!  I am counting down the days with Cole until June 5th gets here, simply because I am ready for summer.  Cole has the best life and amazing friends.  We are ready for middle school, but most of all we are ready to move onto greener pastures.  Many of you know the disdain I have for the Principal at Merriman Park Elementary.  She is not worthy to be our Principal, simply because she doesn't get it, and I don't think wants to get it.  Book knowledge isn't everything.  Living your life to fulfill God's word is what I always try to live by, but sometimes this is hard.  I know without my faith in God, I wouldn't be where I am today in life.  I have a great life, full of joy, happiness, but most of all unconditional love.  I was shocked to find in my mailbox this weekend a really nice blinged out shirt (I love shiny and blingy everything!) along with one of the sweetest hand written notes.  This friend is so amazing and we met a little over two years ago at Merriman Park Elementary.  She sent me one of her custom-made shirts with a heart on it.  Once I read the card I was in tears.  The shirt was a heart with the autism emblem inscribed on it in bling and she said she thought of me when she saw it.  The card is personal, but it basically said that I was an incredible parent and loving person who loved and nurtured so many kids.  I had no idea I had made that impression on her, simply because I think she is a wonderful mom, wife, and friend.  The little things mean a lot, so I am thankful for Andrea and her friendship.

     There are many people that come and go in our life, but one of those families that have become a part of our life are Josh and Sheridan.  I adore their three girls, Avery, Kenzie, and Shelby.  Cole was blessed yesterday by these three girls because we ran into them at our local Memorial Day event.  I made it a mission seven years ago that my son, even though he has autism, would have a normal life.  I made sure Cole had friends that weren't in special education (even though we have made some wonderful friends in special education), simply because I wanted him to understand what the real world was like.  I couldn't have imagined my Cole having the entire student body at Merriman Park worship him, treat him like a king, but most of all love him for just being Cole, but it has happened.  I am a little teary-eyed writing this blog, simply because our time is ending at MPE.  We have been beyond blessed by so many families and parents, that I really don't know where to start to thank the families that have loved Cole and nurtured him.  One of the very first families that I met at MPE were Chris La Vigne and Meredyth Childress.  This family welcomed us into their lives when they didn't even know us!  Meredyth is one of those moms that is simply amazing.  Meredyth just gets it, simply because she puts her kids first.  When I first met Meredyth, she had very long hair with a few streaks in it, so I knew we would be instant friends (because of the streaks).  Meredyth and Chris are advocates for all kids and we are lucky to call them our friends.  There are certain people you meet that you know are going to be there for you:  Meredyth and Chris are those people (along with a number of other parents).  

     I must wrap up this post today, because it's time to start breakfast for Cole, but if I could leave you with one bit of information, it's this:  PARENT YOUR KIDS.  Don't let your kids become complacent, simply because you won't discipline them.  Cole has autism, but that doesn't mean I don't have rules.  He appreciates those rules, even if  he thinks I am a bit harsh at times.  I want Cole to grow up and understand how much I love him.  Please leave your mark on this world, simply by showing your kid or any kid unconditional love.......

Friendship: Cole's Best Friend

Friendship:  Cole's Best Friend

     There are many things I can say about parenting.  For me, I personally wanted to be the best mom for Cole.  I never thought in a million years, I would become "that mom".  When I say "that mom", I mean the mom who opens up her house, takes Cole's friends to 7-11, Party City, and Target, simply because I love them all.  I have been asked by my friends, "How in the world do you do it?  Why don't you just have one or two friends over at a time for Cole?"  Seriously, I thought I was going to have a large family like my Granddaddy's family.  My granddaddy Roy came from a family of 8, so I thought this is what I would have.  I only met a couple of his sisters and their children, but because of the relationship I had with my grandfather, I always wanted a big family.  Obviously, this didn't happen because Cole is an only child.  Sometimes I have questioned myself (and my sanity!), simply because I am so tired after having Cole's friends over.  That being said, I wouldn't change one thing, simply because this is what Cole wants.  I have seen my son blossom into this amazing young man, simply because of these friends.  

     I was told by an acquaintance a number of years ago that all Cole needed was one best friend and he would be fine.  I thought to myself, what kind of friend would Cole need?  That friend became very clear to me at Merriman Park Elementary and to Cole.  Archer Fuqua is that kid who became Cole's very best friend.  Archer is one of those kids that is a rare breed:  he loves everyone, fights for Cole and any kid he sees being mistreated, but most of all, Archer is that kid that has become a part of our family.  Cole and Archer don't hang out that much anymore (away from school), but he is that kid that really got Cole and understood him-- even if Cole didn't talk.  Without Archer, I really don't know where Cole would be today.  I asked Archer two years ago, "Archer, who would want to join Cole's band?".  Archer was the one who told me who we should ask to join the band-- Cole's band.  Cole was insistent about singing "Sherry" and "Walk Like a Man" from the hit musical, "Jersey Boys".  Archer said, "Ms. Erika, why don't we ask Tyler and Gabe?".  Little did I know this band would grow and morph into something I could have never dreamed of.  I credit Archer for helping me find those boys who loved Cole, would do anything for him, and even perform in the 4th grade talent show!  These boys, along with Luke, became known as "The MPE Jersey Boys".  We had to change the name, simply because of copyright law, but because of Archer, Tyler, Gabe, and Luke, this band became known as Cole's band.  This band has become our family, simply because of the amazing friendships we have made.  

     Fast-forward to June 3, 2014.  I have worked my butt off to put together this amazing 6th grade talent show (along with the help of Sherrill Crow, Christina Etri, and the amazingly talented Becca Bryan), simply because I expect nothing but the best from my students.  Cole's friends are Mrs. Bryan's students, but because of my involvement with the talent show, I feel like they have become my students as well.  I am working with 18 kids to put on this talent show (some in groups and some individually), simply because I know they are going to be great.  I didn't ask to be the "mom" to all of these kids, but I am so grateful they trust me enough to come to me when they are having a bad day.  I have seen two of Cole's friends blossom this year, and I think it's because they both saw their parents change.  I only know one of these parents, and I am beyond proud of her daughter, simply because she grew up.  She has turned into this amazing butterfly and has so much confidence.  I am forever grateful to see such positive change in this one particular young lady, simply because she has so much to offer.  I am beyond blessed that Cole has so many friends, simply because I was told so many times that he wouldn't have a so-called "normal" life.  I don't know if I was the one that was supposed to help Cole find friends, but because of these two bands "Bebop Girls" and "Cole Warren and the Jambox Boys", Cole has the most amazing life.  

     As an advocate for all children, I feel each child is entitled to a Free and APpropriate Education (F.A.P.E.).  I don't know if I am the one who is suppose to educate parents, guardians, care givers, and teachers about F.A.P.E., but I think I am making a difference in this world of education.  Two of my friends, Rachel Chumney and Bonnie Abadie, ran a good, clean race for our school board.  They didn't win the seats they were running for, but because of Rachel and Bonnie, I am a better mom, autism advocate.  These women, along with Lyn Pollard and Alicia Post, are changing the face of education.  As a parent of a child who does have a learning difference and disability, my voice is not going to be silenced.  I believe women can and do get the job done.  We need more women (and men too!) to be our voice.  I believe Rachel and Bonnie deserved to win, simply because they are the face of change for education.  Change is good, when it benefits everyone.  

     We finished Cole's transitional A.R.D. (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) meeting this past Monday.  This meeting usually takes us an hour (maybe an hour and a half), but because of lack of communication this year, I demanded change for Cole.  Cole's A.R.D. lasted over five hours (broken up into two meetings).  Cole had too much change, and because of it, he suffered greatly the first semester.  I am not a silent mom.  I don't just sit back and think "this too will go away if I don't acknowledge the elephant in the room."  Some people shouldn't be parents and some people don't need to be Principals of a school.  I don't have fool written on my forehead.  The best advice I can give ANY PARENT is to document, keep a journal of your child's behavior, keep a record of items that you have sent to any administrator, teacher, or staff via email, by certified letter, or by phone.  I never thought in a million years that I would have to use my Wright's Law Book and my I.D.E.A. manual any year, simply because I thought Cole would always have a safe and productive environment at school.  I am grateful I learned in high school, compliments of Robert Giesler, that I needed to write down everything when it came to bullying.  I was bullied in middle school and high school, but I had a voice.  For children like Cole, they don't have a voice.  

     By now, you know that I have not been pleased or happy with the lack of communication this year at Cole's school, Merriman Park Elementary.  We had the most amazing principal, Laurie Taylor, for four years at MPE.  There are some parents that like this year's Principal, simply because she knows how to play up to them.  For kids and parents like us, we need a Principal who has balls.  We needed a Principal who is there for us, and doesn't hide in their office, simply because they don't know how to delegate or know special education law.  We needed accountability when it comes to bullying.  Every year, I introduce myself to Cole's teachers (especially new teachers), simply because I want them to feel welcome at Merriman Park Elementary.  Each year, I give new teachers and staff members a hand-written note of welcome and include our contact information.  I do this  because I want them to know I care about them and Cole's education.  I love my son and I expect the best from him each and every day.  I expect Cole's teachers, staff, and administration to put his needs above their own, simply because this is what I do for all kids.  I am not going to rant about the lack of communication (regarding the Principal at Merriman Park Elementary) anymore, simply because we are moving on to greener pastures.  I have had more communication in the past month from Forest Meadow Junior High School, simply because they get it.  They are on top of things at Forest Meadow Junior High and I am so grateful Cole will be attending this amazing school for two years.  I am a voice of reason and change.  I expect great things for my son.  I do not tolerate bullying of any kind, and if I witness any bullying, I always try to figure out a way to communicate my feelings to the bully.  I love my son, I love my life, but most of all, I demand the truth.  I am not going to go away, simply because someone doesn't have an answer.  I do my research, I am a bit vocal, but I don't tolerate anyone doing their job half-ass.  I have always asked questions, and if I don't get an answer, I keep asking until I can get an answer.  

     I am a voice of change, reason, and substance.  I will never be silenced, simply because I was not born this way.  I look forward to the summer, simply because this is my time to rest and relax with Cole and my wonderful husband.  We only have 13 days of school left and I am going to relish this time with Cole and his friends, simply because we can't turn back time.  I am so grateful for Archer Fuqua, Ryan and Amy and this amazing family.  Without Archer, I really don't know where we would be today.  Archer, you are Cole's very best friend and always will be.  Thank you for your unconditional love and support you have shown Cole.  You are an amazing kid and Cole is so lucky to call you his "brother from another mother!".  Peace out................

The Small Victories: God is Always There

The Small Victories:  God is Always There

     By now, you know that I believe in God.  Cole believes in God, but he asked me yesterday, "Mom who is God?".  I tried to answer his question literally (God is someone who is always with us, in spirit, and loves us unconditionally).  I now realize Cole was asking me, why do we believe in God because I can't see Him.  Today when we were driving home from school, I told Cole God is always with us and that we are never alone.  The next response took me aback:  "Mom, then you are God.".  I was shocked that Cole compared me to God, simply because I am always with him.  I love our church, simply because they do a great job educating Cole about Jesus and God.  He attends a Sunday School specifically designed for kids and adults who have cognitive, physical, and learning differences.  This Sunday school has been my saving grace.  Cole's Sunday School teacher is amazing!  She is the head of special needs at our church and she is one of the few people that I have gone to when I need help with Cole.  There are certain people that come into your life for a reason.  Ashley is one of those rare people that understands what Cole needs.  Without Ashley, I wouldn't have the wealth of knowledge I now have.  She is a gift from God and I am blessed to call her my friend.

     Today, we finished Cole's transition A.R.D.  I call today a small victory, but an important victory, simply because I was able to use the law to get what I wanted for Cole's I.E.P. next year!  I trust my inner voice and sense of reason, but I am also careful about what I am signing when it comes to that very important document.  I have learned more about myself as an autism advocate in the past school year than I have in the seven years Cole has had an I.E.P.  I am very proud of myself for many reasons, simply because it is very hard to write that perfect I.E.P. and make sure it's being followed.  There are many roads a parent/guardian can take to make sure they have a great I.E.P., but unless it is followed, the I.E.P. is worthless.  I am an advocate for all students, but when it comes to Cole, I am his number one fan to make sure he is getting what he needs to thrive in and out of the classroom.  

     Cole's I.E.P. has always been my top priority when it comes to his education.  I was always bored when it came to "those teachers" who taught to the test.  The interesting teachers were those that taught outside of the box.  This is why Dr. Carol Reynolds and Professor Barbara Hill-Moore were always my favorite teachers at SMU, Meadows School of the Arts, because they are those "think outside of the box" professors.  I had a few teachers in elementary school, middle school, and high school that taught outside of the box.  These teachers (Lilli Grant, Arnold Young, Armelia King, Sharon Morgan, Betty Parrett, and Jack Mattingly) were simply amazing at what they did.  Looking back, I realize now why I loved  these teachers so much:  they didn't teach to the test.  They were forward thinkers and because of these great teachers, I feel I have taught my students to think outside the box.  A student like Cole needs a teacher who thinks outside the box, understands him like I do, but most of all, nurture what is inside that brilliant mind.  Nobody needs to be taught to the test.  I stand firm when I say I don't like to teach to the test.  That being said, this is one of the reasons I quit teaching in a classroom, simply because I had to teach what I was told to teach.  Who wants to be told what to do when it isn't fun?  I know I don't want to sit in a classroom, listen to a recorded tape or pound the piano to "Cantate Domino", simply because it was one of those assigned songs for All-District Choir Auditions.  This is a beautiful song, but after you have heard it literally over a thousand times, wouldn't you be bored with it?  I love music, but when it becomes repetitive to my students, I want to change it up a bit.  I can still recall one Friday taking a break from the assigned curriculum and letting my students listen to the type of music they liked!  This started fun Fridays and the best Conga line I have ever seen.  Why did they love Fridays?  I let them have a break from the mundane and boring lesson plans I had to use.  

     The reason I am calling this a small victory today is because I am still a bit pre-cautious when it comes to following Cole's I.E.P.  I trust the administration at Cole's middle school (where he will attend next year), but until I really get to know them and they know me, I always tread in the water for about two weeks, asking myself, "Did I do the right thing?  Should Cole be attending a Private School or is he really going to have F.A.P.E. (Free and APpropriate Education)?".  I ponder each year with this question:  Will Cole's I.E.P. be written to include as needed or do we go by the books and make sure he is doing everything to his possible abilities with help?  I want Cole to be independent.  I want Cole to graduate from high school, get a job, go to college if this is feasible (which I think is possible), get married, and have children.  I won't always be Cole's advocate.  He has the right to decide what role to take when he turns 18.  Can we (his parents) sit in his A.R.D. when he becomes an adult at 18, or will he ban us from this meeting?  I seriously doubt Cole would do this, but to make sure he knows his rights, we will be including Cole in his A.R.D.'s when he is in the ninth grade.

     As a parent and advocate, always be there for your child.  They need you.  However, don't limit your child into thinking they are not capable of doing much after high school.  Dream big for your kid.  Don't let those demons and nay-sayers creep into your mind.  We all worry about our kids.  The best advice I can give you is have the same dreams for ALL of your kids, because you never know what possibilities lie ahead for your child with a disability or not.  I am beyond blessed to have so many advocates and friends.  Do I know what I want to do with my life at age 40?  Maybe.  I never knew I would be a writer.  I never knew I would turn this journal into something bigger.  I always believed I was destined for greatness with my life, simply because my parents always believed in me.  I was never told by my parents, "You're stupid, you're ugly, you don't know what you are talking about.".  I was lucky to have parents that believed in me, no matter where I was in life.  Sometimes, you just have to pick yourself up, dust those doubts away, and listen to God.  I love the fact that I know God is always there for me, Cole, and my wonderful husband.  Without my faith and my trust in God, I know I would have limited Cole.  Don't limit your child, even if they can't verbalize what they need.  You are an amazing person, and if nobody has ever told you they love you, I do!  God loves everyone.  Happy Monday!