As we were riding in our family minivan, my daughter started telling us her “dreams for her life.” On the top of her list: “I dream of marrying R.”
Philip chimed in, “I dream of being a car rider!” Philip would be happy if he could just get mom or dad to take him to and from school.
I have sometimes wished that I could see into Philip’s world and see his dreams and hopes for himself. Now I’m starting to wonder if his dreams and hopes are simpler than I think.
A couple days ago, I asked him what he’d like to do in the afternoon. He just looked at me, smiled, and said, “Whatever I feel like doing.” No elaborate plans necessary, just “being” was good enough. Usually, his “being” takes place at home.
In fact, both my middle guy and my daughter are happiest at home. They are homebodies. This may save us planning and money. It makes for a very disorganized home, though. I am constantly reminding them to pick up after themselves, that my desk is not their play place, and reminding my daughter that she can’t use my sharp kitchen knives for her craft projects. And clean up the paper sniblets on the floor!!!!
They are the homebodies. Not me! I need to get out at least once a day, it seems. (That is, unless my only “errand” is going to the grocery store. Then I can find a million reasons to stay home.) Getting the kids to go with me is a real challenge, so if I have to take them I usually bribe them with a slushie or ice cream.
So, how do you balance your needs with those of your kids– the ones that seem to be opposite? And how do you maintain order in the chaos?
Autism From the Lighter Side 
Posted by Michelle on July 11, 2011 at 2:55 pm
we compromise and do both. we’ll go out first thing in the morning, somewhere fun. somewhere where we can all get our blood flowing and socialize. then, we return home around lunch time to put jammies/AC on and pop in a good movie. 🙂
Posted by Elizabeth G. on July 11, 2011 at 4:13 pm
That’s a good idea. Where do you like to go socialize?