Thanks.

Simon


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 thoughts

  1. Jennifer says…
    01/10/2006

    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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  2. alexandra says…
    01/10/2006

    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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  3. krisfred says…
    01/10/2006

    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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  4. Juli Elgin says…
    01/11/2006

    Simon is blessed to have such a great mom. Smart, talented, loving...this little boy will flourish.
    Happy Birthday Simon!

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  5. Stephanie says…
    01/12/2006

    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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  6. Michelle says…
    01/12/2006

    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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  7. Heather D. White says…
    01/12/2006

    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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  8. Jane says…
    01/12/2006

    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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  9. Nancy Nally (ScrapNancy) says…
    01/18/2006

    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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    09/11/2007
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    02/28/2008
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