The Puzzle Piece

 Oftentimes, as parents of autistic or special needs children, we can run into others who might say some unbelievable things about the disorder. This is not the time to become angry or offended. Many times, people who say these things are simply uneducated about autism and need an explanation of how things work. So, in the interest of being helpful, I am sharing with you some of the most ridiculous things people have said to me about autism.  "Your son doesn't look autistic." This was said to me by a friend of mine who had had no exposure to special needs people at all. In his mind, they all carried the same vacant, faraway expression and neutral face so that it can be seen with your own eyes that they are autistic. There is nothing further from the truth.  While some children may carry that expression, it is not solely a look of autism. We all make that same face in our lives for different reasons. All of us are guilty of spacing out once in awhile and going off to our o

 Happy new year, Everyone!!! Let me just wish you all the very best for this new year! I know it's been awhile since I've written anything. As Santa's personal elf in charge of getting Solon excited and ready for Christmas, I was very busy. We had a wonderful (and exhausting) holiday and I loved every minute of it.  Once Christmas is finished, there are a few things I still have to do. As much as Solon loves Christmas, there are a few "must have's" Solon insists on to ring in the new year. Solon thrives when he's on a schedule and the holidays are no different. Here's a few things I do for Solon to keep him excited and interested while we prepare for a whole new year.  Calendar I know it might seem a little odd, but Solon insists on being the one to change the calendar. Every year, I buy a new calendar or two to replace the old. Solon likes having his own calendar. I will get him a calendar based on something he likes. Last year's was Toy Story. Th