I wanted to take a minute and say a public thank you for all the emails I have received over the last year about autism and about Simon. I have read stories of love and triumph and challenges; learned a ton from other mamas (and a couple dads too) & therapists & educators about daily schedules, diets, and educational toys; received so many links & infomation & files of picture schedules that I need another lifetime just to absorb it all; shed tears; and felt tremendous support.
I have connected with parents concerned about their own child's behaviors, even grandparents concerned about their grandchild. I have received emails from mamas whose children are grown - sharing words of wisdom & support & love, and emails from mamas sharing the proud accomplishments and strides their kids have made.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for reaching out to me.
It was just over a year ago that Simon received his initial diagnosis of autism.
Over the last year I have had moments of denial, moments of clarity, moments of questioning, and so very many moments of joy that this awesome little boy is in our lives.
One year ago today I posted, "So, things will change around here. Pieces of our life will change." And
of course it is true - our lives have been completely altered. And you
know what, I don't think I would take one moment of it back. This is us. We have all become more us.
Here are a few new links I want to share:
• From Pam (thanks Pam): Getting The Word Out
• Sharon Sonneff wrote a very interesting and thought-provoking entry on her blog the other day: Experiencing the Mysterious
In 12 days, Simon will turn 4. We will celebrate all that makes him Simon. All the beautiful bits and pieces that we treasure about him. That we adore. That we are so very thankful for...
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62 comments
You writing ability amazes me, I feel so blessed to know people like you exist in this world. You are such a great mom and your post made me cry. What a Beautiful Little Dude! He will be one beautiful Man inside and out because of you and Chris.
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you three are so lucky to have each other...thanks for sharing with us...you are a gem:)
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This post brought tears to my eyes. I have gone through those same emotions over and over again. My daughter Jillian has made great progress...and I am thankful for it. But I will never forget those first emotions. I will never forget how our lives changed. Like you, I am thankful for it. It has made our family what it is today. Thanks Ali for reminding me of that.
-Jaime
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Hi Ali,
We are a scrapbook store in NY, about an hour north of NYC. Several of our customers took your album tract at CKU Stamford and absolutely loved your work. We are anxious to have you teach at our store if you can possibly fit us into your busy schedule. Look forward to hearing from you.
Julie & Barbara
845-621-3119
46 Miller Road
Mahopac, NY 10541
lastingmemories@suscom.net
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Ali, although I haven't met you in person yet, I can see from your posts and your work that Simon is the luckiest boy in the world to have you as his Mama. You are amazing in what you do and your attitude to LIFE. You are an inspiration in every way.
Kass
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Just look at those gorgeous big brown eyes, what a cutie. I hope he is getting all excited about his birthday.
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Cute thing...I just clicked on your blog and Simon's picture came up. My youngest son stopped what he was doing and just started at the picture. I told him, "That's Simon." He had such a big smile. Isn't it sweet how children respond to each other?
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Ali,
Just felt compelled to say thanks for sharing your journey of autism with us. It makes me feel proud to be a teacher of young children with autism and other "abilities," and excited to do my best each day. Looking forward to going to work tomorrow to see "MY" kids. Thanks...
Hugs,
Erin
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Ali - This post brought me a few tears - and also made me want to reach out to you. I think you are amazing for all the feelings, stories and ideas you share. Whenever I read your blog, I smile with you, learn from you, occasionally cry with you, and always get totally inspired by you...not just your work but for the person you are. I just wanted to send you and Chris peace and blessings as you prepare to celebrate Simon's birthday! Enjoy the wonderful day!
Jackie
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Ali - as so many others have said, thank you for being so honest and real - about life, about work, about motherhood, about all else you share in your blog. You are such an inspiration! We have a 5 year old son who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age 18 months. I too remember my husband and I crying ourselves to sleep around that time. But, we picked up the pieces, did research and became the best advocate for our son as possible! Have you ever read the Erma Bombeck piece about being a mother of a child with a disability? Here's a link, I know it's all over the internet... http://www.downsyn.com/bombeck.html It has given me peace and comfort these past few years. Thanks again for all you share --Jenny
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I got the link to your blog from my friend, Jan. She knew I'd be interested because late last year my youngest child was diagnosed with PDD/autism. She will turn 4 in early March. And then just yesterday, we got confirmation that our oldest child also has PDD/Autism (though we really 'knew' it after our youngest was diagnosed). He will be 10 in May. I don't want to leave our middle one out... she will be 7 in March and she is typically developing. I've really enjoyed reading your blog, especially the posts right after Simon's diagnosis! It's helped to know that you've 'been there/done that'! I'm still feeling pretty shaky most days! I really get alot of encouragement from reading your posts! Not to mention, you take amazing pictures and do some unbelievable scrapbooking!! God bless you and your family, and I hope Simon has a lovely birthday!
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Hey Ali,
Always so great to see photos of Simon - he is a beautiful boy. My twins will be three on the 28th - time sure has a way of flying by. They are so used to seeing your blog that today Hannah saw Simon's picture and said 'Simon playing with Dora House' and a while back Wyatt wanted to know when you were coming to visit.
Just want you to know how fabulous you are and that your blog enriches our lives on so many levels. I love the fact that you touch on so many aspects of life ...art, photography, friends, family, politics, reading, etc. etc. and you're sassy and real enough to throw in the fun girly things like shopping, clothes and hair!! You help us to savour a cup of coffee or a nap with our little one(s). Love, love, love all that you do. You, as my friend Cindy likes to say, are a treasure.
My very best wishes to you, Alexandra
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I learn something from you EVERY DAY!! LOVE the links that you post. My heartfelt thanks to YOU! I'm sad that I won't get to meet you when you come to Cali but wanted to let you know of a great store called Mother's Market & Kitchen. There's one in Irvine. They carry many wheatfree /gluten-free foods & organics-www.mothersmarket.com. You truly inspire me...!
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Simon is blessed to have such a great mom. Smart, talented, loving...this little boy will flourish.
Happy Birthday Simon!
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Ali,
Thank you for sharing your experiences with us.
As always, you, Chris and Simon continue to be a comfort as we travel down the autism road with our son. Still no answers, but I have learned to fully appreciate every smile, touch and laughter that our son touches us with!
I enjoy the little things.
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Our daughter Madelyn received a diagnosis of Autistic Disorder just yesterday morning. Although we had already suspected this, the news was still very devasting. I am a scrapper so a friend of mine gave me the address of your blog. I must say your Simon is adorable and you are an awesome mom!!!! Thank you for sharing your experiences with autism and I look forward to being a regular reader. Yesterday was very difficult for us, but now a new door has been opened.
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My gosh. Is that really Simon? He has grown up so much. I can't believe how he has changed in the past few years. His hair has gotten so dark. What a cutie!!!
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My best friends daughter was just diagnosised with autism and I'm trying to learn all I can. Thank you for being an out spoken advocate for autism!
I hope that your family continues to grow and thrive. God Bless
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Thank you for sharing your journey with us. As someone who is just starting that path (our two year old daughter was diagnosed with autism in November), it has helped to hear of the grace with which you have handled your family's situation.
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