Friday, June 24, 2011
Relative Excitement
Grandmama, Aunty Shell and cousin CJ are coming up for a visit and the kids are excited! Or as Shane puts it, "I am so excited I am going to explode!" I sure hope Aunty and CJ are up for it because I have a feeling two little Nevada monsters are going to wear them out. And we will see when I check back in with you next week if I survive my weekend of not sleeping all day that I usually get!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Fathers Day Conversation
Daddy: I have the best kids in the whole wide world.
Shane: Will you let us meet them someday?
We may be a little late on this but Happy Fathers Day daddy. You make our family complete.
Shane: Will you let us meet them someday?
We may be a little late on this but Happy Fathers Day daddy. You make our family complete.
Autism Basics
"What is autism?"
Even well seasoned parents of children with autism freeze when asked this question. I always start with "it's complicated." But here are some basics that you can print out and put in your back pocket the next time you are asked:
1) Autism is a neurological disorder; not a disease. It is a broad spectrum disorder, meaning that people with autism can be a little autistic or very autistic. Thus, it is possible to be bright, verbal, and autistic as well as mentally retarded, non-verbal and autistic.
2) All share deficits to some degree in three areas: social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors or interests. In addition, many have unusual responses to sensory experiences, such as certain sounds or the way objects look.
3) "They" are not all alike. Individuals with autism have unique challenges, quirks, and interests. People with autism can be hard to figure out. Don't be afraid to ask their parents or caretakers questions.
4) There is no proven cure for autism-yet. Autism is a lifelong diagnosis. That's not to say that people with autism don't improve, because many improve radically with treatment. But even when people with autism increase their skills, they are still autistic, which means they think and perceive differently from most people.
5) No one is sure what causes autism. Theories range from mercury in infant vaccines(a theory that has been hyped up by celebrities, not scientists who maintain there is NO link)to genetics to the age of the parents to almost everything else. At present, most researchers think autism is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors - and it's quite possible that different people's symptoms have different causes.
Even well seasoned parents of children with autism freeze when asked this question. I always start with "it's complicated." But here are some basics that you can print out and put in your back pocket the next time you are asked:
1) Autism is a neurological disorder; not a disease. It is a broad spectrum disorder, meaning that people with autism can be a little autistic or very autistic. Thus, it is possible to be bright, verbal, and autistic as well as mentally retarded, non-verbal and autistic.
2) All share deficits to some degree in three areas: social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors or interests. In addition, many have unusual responses to sensory experiences, such as certain sounds or the way objects look.
3) "They" are not all alike. Individuals with autism have unique challenges, quirks, and interests. People with autism can be hard to figure out. Don't be afraid to ask their parents or caretakers questions.
4) There is no proven cure for autism-yet. Autism is a lifelong diagnosis. That's not to say that people with autism don't improve, because many improve radically with treatment. But even when people with autism increase their skills, they are still autistic, which means they think and perceive differently from most people.
5) No one is sure what causes autism. Theories range from mercury in infant vaccines(a theory that has been hyped up by celebrities, not scientists who maintain there is NO link)to genetics to the age of the parents to almost everything else. At present, most researchers think autism is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors - and it's quite possible that different people's symptoms have different causes.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Shane's Kindergarten Graduation - June 16, 2011
The pictures came out blurry because the camera was acting stupid but I am going to try to post the video on here sometime soon. Before you know it, he will be graduating from high school!
At the end of the ceremony, the teacher said what each child wanted to be when they grow up. Shane said he wants to be a fireman. His friend Alex said he wants to be a male ballerina and Kassidy said, "Hey, he can be a ballerino!"
At the end of the ceremony, the teacher said what each child wanted to be when they grow up. Shane said he wants to be a fireman. His friend Alex said he wants to be a male ballerina and Kassidy said, "Hey, he can be a ballerino!"
Oh No, Not Red
We have a wolf and a little red riding hood finger puppet.
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| Apparently the wolf was hungry because this is how I found the two when I was cleaning up..... |
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| I guess Red was just too yummy! |
Shane's 6th Birthday - June 05, 2011
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| Shane was student of the week and got to bring home the class mascot Clifford during his birthday weekend. |
After presents we went to Build-A-Bear Workshop and Shane got a weiner dog that looks just like Sunset. Kassidy got a tabby cat. Then we went to Burger King because Shane wanted to get a crown for his birthday.
Shane doesn't like to take pictures unless he has his sun glasses on because the flash "hurts his eyes". So I guess I will have a lot of pics of the back and side of his head.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Guest Writer
Me: "TEN_HUT, FRONT AND CENTER!" (in my best drill sergeant voice)
Kids assemble
Kids: "Yessir, Daddy sir."
Me:(to Kassidy) "YOU, SHOES AND SOCKS BACK ON NOW!"
(to Shane) "SUNGLASSES ON NOW!"
Kids comply.
Me: "GET OUTSIDE NOW AND HAVE SOME FUN!"
Kids comply.
It's fun being a Dad!
Kids assemble
Kids: "Yessir, Daddy sir."
Me:(to Kassidy) "YOU, SHOES AND SOCKS BACK ON NOW!"
(to Shane) "SUNGLASSES ON NOW!"
Kids comply.
Me: "GET OUTSIDE NOW AND HAVE SOME FUN!"
Kids comply.
It's fun being a Dad!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Gotta Laugh
For most people with autism, acknowleging an emotion is rare - they have emotions, just don't seem to acknowledge them. Sunday was Shane's birthday (more later) and here is what I heard coming from the front room that night:
Kassidy - So Shane, how does it feel to be 6?
Shane - (thinks about it for 15 seconds) It feels taller.
It doesn't matter if you have autism or not, that right there was funny!
Kassidy - So Shane, how does it feel to be 6?
Shane - (thinks about it for 15 seconds) It feels taller.
It doesn't matter if you have autism or not, that right there was funny!
Saturday, June 4, 2011
I Got Schooled Again!
Last night daddy went to the corner market and did something stupid and I told him so on the phone. No big thing, just not a smart thing. When I hung up the phone, I said "Sometimes he can be so stupid" as I was walking down the hall back to the front where the kids were watching TV. As I seated my butt down on the couch, Kassidy said directly to me, "He may be stupid but he is still your husband and he is still our daddy." OOPPS - guess I spoke too loud. And just so you know Kassidy, sometimes mommy can be stupid too!
Support Our Youth!
June 04, 2011
My nephew, Colby Joshua Desbiens (CJ) is a 16 year old teenager that is trying to make a difference in today’s world for the future generations.
CJ and his Youth Group are working very hard to raise money to attend World Youth Day. Madrid, Spain will host World Youth Day from August 15-21, 2011. For Catholics, it is one of the world’s most exciting events. As CJ wants to obtain a religious studies degree, this trip will especially be a once in a lifetime experience for him.
I would very much appreciate if you could take a moment to read the below letter from CJ. CJ would be very grateful for any help you can give but in these trying economic times, he understands if you are not able to donate towards his trip. However, he would be especially grateful if you could please pass this email along to any person, group or organization that you know of that might be able to donate. All donations are tax deductible.
Below is a brief explanation of World Youth Day. An itinerary of the trip can be sent to you by request. Thank you for your consideration. We really appreciate it!!
Thanks!
Proud Aunty – Tina Christianson (tinachristianson@gmail.com or 775-530-1352)
World Youth Day, WYD, is a yearly youth celebration that was started by Pope John Paul II as a way to inspire the youth and encourage them in living the teachings of Christ.
Young people, from many countries and nations around the globe, come together showing the universality of, and diversity within, the Catholic Church. It is a time for the youth to share their faith and be rejuvenated to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ in their homelands. It is also a way to come to understand other cultures and spread peace and understanding throughout the world. As they wave their countries' and region's flags with pride, the youth unite as one in their walk of faith.
During the week leading up to the final mass at World Youth Day, the youth gather in catechesis to learn the teachings of the faith and celebrate in other festivities. The graces flow and the fruits are abundant because it is truly a pilgrimage in which self-sacrifice is an intricate part. Some save and prepare for years to attend.
Others sacrifice by traveling a great distance. All are joyful as they move through the crowds of people in uncomfortable climate conditions, by giving up the food, lodging, electronics, cleanliness, etc... that they are familiar with, and by thinking of others through it all.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear friend, family member, mentor, encourager and supporter in my life,
I am C.J. Desbiens and God is working miracles in my life! I am involved with a group of very passionate, motivated teens and young adults committed to growing our Catholic faith in our own community, in our schools and in our families. And we are being called to participate in a life-changing spiritual pilgrimage this summer. We as a team are organizing ourselves, setting out on a mission to take what we received in our formation (a love for Christ and this church, incredible fellowship), to serve others out in the bigger church, or for that matter to whomever is put in our path. We are establishing ourselves to do ministry in the local church before our trip, during our trip, and after we return.
God willing, I am aspiring to go on a spiritual pilgrimage and missionary trip this August. It will consist of a pilgrimage through Portugal for one week followed by active participation in World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid, Spain. I have included a copy of our itinerary in case you would like to read more about our spiritual pilgrimage.
We will have the opportunity to participate in daily Mass and adoration, devotionals at some of the holiest Catholic sites in the world found in Lisbon, Fatima, Porto, Santiago de Compostela, Zaragoza, Madrid and Barcelona. And while in Madrid for the World Youth Day activities, we are hoping to lead a Catechetical Site where over a thousand people will gather each day. At this site, we will host all the skits, talks, music, and prepare for Mass with Bishops from around the world. We will be fulfilling the commands of the gospel to go to all the nations and to share the good news!
We also are answering the call in our local church. I am actively serving in my Parish by teaching Confirmation, helping with Children’s Liturgy of the Word, ushering at mass, working in the kitchen and helping with hospitality at Parish functions. I am also serving my surrounding community by giving talks on retreats, leading workshops, evangelizing at our schools, mentoring younger students, working in shelters throughout Orange County and living out the corporal works of mercy in an effort to prepare spiritually for this pilgrimage. All of these efforts are aimed at my growth as an individual and as a vibrant member of St. Norbert and the surrounding community. And as I am doing this work, God is working on me! I am growing deeper in my faith and my commitment to leadership in my church and community.
And of course, I need your support and your prayers! Please keep our mission in your daily prayers. God will bless us through you! And through your prayer, if you are in a position to support us financially, we would be incredibly appreciative. Please know that myself, as well as all the teens and young adults going on this pilgrimage are working tirelessly to raise funds to be able to support our trip. Any financial contribution will be put to great use and will go towards bringing the glory of God to our community and to all whom we encounter.
I am counting on the support of my family, friends and community to help make this life-changing pilgrimage a reality for me! Please know that your generous gift, no matter how small, means more to me than words can express. Additionally, if you know of an organization or business that may be able to make a donation to my trip, I would be very grateful if you could pass a copy of this letter on to them or email me at cjdesbiens@yahoo.com and I would be glad to contact them personally.
Please keep us in your prayers. Thank you so much for your generous consideration!
God Bless you!
C.J. Desbiens
If you would like to make a financial contribution to my pilgrimage,
please fill out the following form and send it to:
St. Norbert Catholic Church
Attn: Kirsten King, Youth Ministry Program
300 E. Taft Ave. Orange, CA 92865
A self-addressed stamped envelope is available upon request.
Please make checks payable to: St. Norbert Catholic Church
All contributions are tax-deductible under the 501(c)3 code of the Internal Revenue Service.
My nephew, Colby Joshua Desbiens (CJ) is a 16 year old teenager that is trying to make a difference in today’s world for the future generations.
CJ and his Youth Group are working very hard to raise money to attend World Youth Day. Madrid, Spain will host World Youth Day from August 15-21, 2011. For Catholics, it is one of the world’s most exciting events. As CJ wants to obtain a religious studies degree, this trip will especially be a once in a lifetime experience for him.
I would very much appreciate if you could take a moment to read the below letter from CJ. CJ would be very grateful for any help you can give but in these trying economic times, he understands if you are not able to donate towards his trip. However, he would be especially grateful if you could please pass this email along to any person, group or organization that you know of that might be able to donate. All donations are tax deductible.
Below is a brief explanation of World Youth Day. An itinerary of the trip can be sent to you by request. Thank you for your consideration. We really appreciate it!!
Thanks!
Proud Aunty – Tina Christianson (tinachristianson@gmail.com or 775-530-1352)
World Youth Day, WYD, is a yearly youth celebration that was started by Pope John Paul II as a way to inspire the youth and encourage them in living the teachings of Christ.
Young people, from many countries and nations around the globe, come together showing the universality of, and diversity within, the Catholic Church. It is a time for the youth to share their faith and be rejuvenated to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ in their homelands. It is also a way to come to understand other cultures and spread peace and understanding throughout the world. As they wave their countries' and region's flags with pride, the youth unite as one in their walk of faith.
During the week leading up to the final mass at World Youth Day, the youth gather in catechesis to learn the teachings of the faith and celebrate in other festivities. The graces flow and the fruits are abundant because it is truly a pilgrimage in which self-sacrifice is an intricate part. Some save and prepare for years to attend.
Others sacrifice by traveling a great distance. All are joyful as they move through the crowds of people in uncomfortable climate conditions, by giving up the food, lodging, electronics, cleanliness, etc... that they are familiar with, and by thinking of others through it all.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear friend, family member, mentor, encourager and supporter in my life,
I am C.J. Desbiens and God is working miracles in my life! I am involved with a group of very passionate, motivated teens and young adults committed to growing our Catholic faith in our own community, in our schools and in our families. And we are being called to participate in a life-changing spiritual pilgrimage this summer. We as a team are organizing ourselves, setting out on a mission to take what we received in our formation (a love for Christ and this church, incredible fellowship), to serve others out in the bigger church, or for that matter to whomever is put in our path. We are establishing ourselves to do ministry in the local church before our trip, during our trip, and after we return.
God willing, I am aspiring to go on a spiritual pilgrimage and missionary trip this August. It will consist of a pilgrimage through Portugal for one week followed by active participation in World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid, Spain. I have included a copy of our itinerary in case you would like to read more about our spiritual pilgrimage.
We will have the opportunity to participate in daily Mass and adoration, devotionals at some of the holiest Catholic sites in the world found in Lisbon, Fatima, Porto, Santiago de Compostela, Zaragoza, Madrid and Barcelona. And while in Madrid for the World Youth Day activities, we are hoping to lead a Catechetical Site where over a thousand people will gather each day. At this site, we will host all the skits, talks, music, and prepare for Mass with Bishops from around the world. We will be fulfilling the commands of the gospel to go to all the nations and to share the good news!
We also are answering the call in our local church. I am actively serving in my Parish by teaching Confirmation, helping with Children’s Liturgy of the Word, ushering at mass, working in the kitchen and helping with hospitality at Parish functions. I am also serving my surrounding community by giving talks on retreats, leading workshops, evangelizing at our schools, mentoring younger students, working in shelters throughout Orange County and living out the corporal works of mercy in an effort to prepare spiritually for this pilgrimage. All of these efforts are aimed at my growth as an individual and as a vibrant member of St. Norbert and the surrounding community. And as I am doing this work, God is working on me! I am growing deeper in my faith and my commitment to leadership in my church and community.
And of course, I need your support and your prayers! Please keep our mission in your daily prayers. God will bless us through you! And through your prayer, if you are in a position to support us financially, we would be incredibly appreciative. Please know that myself, as well as all the teens and young adults going on this pilgrimage are working tirelessly to raise funds to be able to support our trip. Any financial contribution will be put to great use and will go towards bringing the glory of God to our community and to all whom we encounter.
I am counting on the support of my family, friends and community to help make this life-changing pilgrimage a reality for me! Please know that your generous gift, no matter how small, means more to me than words can express. Additionally, if you know of an organization or business that may be able to make a donation to my trip, I would be very grateful if you could pass a copy of this letter on to them or email me at cjdesbiens@yahoo.com and I would be glad to contact them personally.
Please keep us in your prayers. Thank you so much for your generous consideration!
God Bless you!
C.J. Desbiens
If you would like to make a financial contribution to my pilgrimage,
please fill out the following form and send it to:
St. Norbert Catholic Church
Attn: Kirsten King, Youth Ministry Program
300 E. Taft Ave. Orange, CA 92865
A self-addressed stamped envelope is available upon request.
Please make checks payable to: St. Norbert Catholic Church
All contributions are tax-deductible under the 501(c)3 code of the Internal Revenue Service.
SUPPORT FORM
OR
May 24, 2011
My name is: __________________________________________________ and I would like to sponsor
C.J. Desbiens in the amount of: $__________________
C.J. Desbiens in the amount of: $__________________
As a: [ ] One-time sponsorship or [ ] A Monthly Contribution for ______ months
OR
I am interested in sponsoring for CJ Desbiens:
[ ] a plane ticket to World Youth Day ($1,500)
[ ] the entire trip to World Youth Day ($4,500)
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Girls Do Too!
A friend of ours is due any day now with their second child and Daddy mentioned to me that if our friend does not go into labor by the 14th of this month then she will be having a c-section. Kassidy asked me (Shane was standing there too) what a c-section was and I said it is when they cut the baby out of the mom, like they did with Shane for me. Shane asked me if they had cut me here and he pointed to my chest between my two big friends and I told him no and showed them both where I got cut to have Shane. Then Shane said, "I'm glad I am a boy because I would never want a baby to be cut out of me" and then he added, "But girls are lucky too because they don't have to shave like guys do." So I corrected him and told him that most girls shave their legs and his response was "But you don't have to shave here so you are lucky" as he was pointing to his chin. I just smiled but I was think in my head, "Well Shane, some women have to shave there too."
Processing
Last night Kassidy was over by the computers and she was playing with her Sonic the Hedgehog stuffed animal set. I just got the kids a new one that they call Silver and I guess he is a bad guy, I only know what they tell me because I do not know anything about these characters. Anyways, Kassidy was about to introduce the new one to the others and she said, "Now guys, Silver has Aspergers so we have to be careful not to show him anything scary or do anything to scare him because he will freak out if we do."
I guess she is finally processing when we told her she has autism (although I do not recall mentioning Aspergers) and it sounds like she is pretty ok with it.
Now if she would be ok with homework....but that is another story!
I guess she is finally processing when we told her she has autism (although I do not recall mentioning Aspergers) and it sounds like she is pretty ok with it.
Now if she would be ok with homework....but that is another story!
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