Autism: Surviving and Thriving

Fourteen years ago my youngest 3 boys were diagnosed with autism within a 9 month span. Devastation and grieving followed. Doctors gave me little or no hope, but they didn't know me very well. I refused to believe that my boys were doomed.

My boys are now young men, adults with autism. They are thriving, but every day presents its turmoil and challenges.

My family: husband Mike, sons Ryan 23 yr, Nicholas 21 yr, and Cameron 18 yr. (Ryan and Nick have autism; Cam has recovered from autism.) Our oldest sons, Michael 34 yr and Stuart 25 yr, moved out of the house. Ryan has also moved out, and is still working towards complete independence.

Sunday, June 30, 2013

Will The Dog Melt?

Yesterday the temperature reached 118 degrees.  Today we are looking for a cooling trend of 115.  This weather reminds me of a question my son asked before we moved to the Southwest.

Back in CA, my son, then 8, wanted a dog.  He begged us to get a dog.  We said no, especially with the impending move.  My son was not deterred.  He persisted.

Once he asked when my husband was on the phone with me.  My son begged, "PLEEEEASE, can we get a dog?"

I gave the phone to my son as I was tired of saying no.  He could ask his dad!  I could hear my husband's voice, "Nope."

My son's second question came, "WHY?"

My husband responded, "It's too hot in the desert for a dog."

I could see the wheels turning in my son's mind.  He frowned.  Then a light bulb turned on!

He said, "The dog will melt?"

We suppressed a laugh, but let it go for the moment.  When we finally moved, we did explain that a dog wouldn't melt.  I don't like dogs in the house, and it is too hot to keep a dog outside during the heat.  My son then understood why we didn't get a dog.

photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/allert/

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