Michael Graduates

Michael and Brandy

My oldest son, Michael, graduated from college last weekend. Quite an accomplishment!  Like all of us, there have been obstacles in his path.  Not to be deterred, Michael has overcome them.  On his own. It's taken a long time, but that doesn't matter.  The end result outshines all else.

I used to think that the quicker a goal could be achieved, the better.  I was very young when I started college.  I was 16 and still in high school.  I crammed a four-year degree in 3 1/2. Hating school was a great incentive--get it over quickly. However, I applied the quick-is-better mode to a lot in life.

Autism has taught me that speed means nothing.

I have learned that getting there is just as important as an accomplishment. Throughout my son's college career, Michael has been a role model for his younger brothers with autism.  He has been a wonderful, supportive son--offering reprieve when he sees me wiggin' out.  I can't imagine attending collegiate classes and being available to hang out with littler brothers or a crazed mother.  Michael has done it all.

I am a very proud mommy!

Congratulations, Michael!!! 

Michael and his cousin Yesi with diplomas

photo credit:  Yesi Russo

I Want To Be Like My Big Brother

Ryan, Nick, Michael, Cameron

When the boys were in elementary school, teachers often had them write about whom they admired.  Without fail, the answer would be, "My big brother."

With four boys still in the house, many assume the younger boys mean Stuart.  While Stu is fun-loving, hardworking, and admirable, he is not always the big brother being referenced.  In our family, the big brother is the the tallest, ie 6'2".  Literally the BIG brother.  Michael.

Michael has been out of the house for a decade now.  He lives about a mile away.  Far enough to live his own life, but close enough to help.  Michael knows the challenges facing his little brothers, and many times he takes them to offer me reprieve.

My younger sons usually like going over the Mike's because they get to play video games, eat (gluten free) fast food, drink sodas, stay up late, and do nothing.  Then there's the flip side.  Mike keeps them busy.  He usually has a project or two going on.

This month they are making a bench out of an old bar.  The plans for the bench hang on the garage wall.  The wood and tools cover the floor.  The boys show me various aspects.  Each one voices what he likes (or doesn't like) about the project.  They like using the tools.  The loud noises--not so much.

Mike has a knack for solving problems, like getting the boys to work together on a project that is new to them.  They might complain at first, but ultimately, they have a good time completing the tasks at hand.  They then have a great sense of accomplishment.  Priceless!