Crazy

It turns out I may actually be a little bit crazy.  I have had my suspicions for some time now, but my son's recent diagnosis has confirmed my feelings.  My son has been diagnosed with PANDAS, a very rare condition that causes debilitating OCD, anxiety, regression, sensory issues, sleep issues, movement problems, etc.  Just when I thought we had exhausted all the autism treatments out there, he receives this new diagnosis that brings with it a whole new set of (expensive) treatment options.  I can't tell you how excited my husband was to find out that there is still a chance that I can drive us into bankruptcy within the next few years.  In researching this condition I discovered that almost all parents of PANDAS children suffer from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).  In reading the symptoms I have decided that this may very well be the case with me, especially when it comes to health or nutrition issues.  Walking into the grocery store is a nightmare for me.  It is like being in a house of horror.  Everywhere I turn there is a new terror lurking.  The entire time I hear the demonic chanting "Can we get this."  I want to curl up in the fetal position and go to my happy place, but I know the only escape is to get out as fast as I can.  Waiting to check out, I pry my son's hands off a bag of M&Ms and replace it with a lighter.  For a split second fire seems less dangerous thane colorings and preservatives not to mention the sugar.  Glancing at the woman's cart in front of me I fight off the urge to call social services after assessing the items half hidden by her toddler.  Macaroni and Cheese, Ramen, Chips, two cartons of ice cream; oh the horror!  But wait!  There behind the twelve pack of root beer is a package of baby carrots.  Please say they are organic.

Talent

I have been wishing that my autistic son would develop an interest in something...anything.  "Be careful what you wish for".  Mine was granted.  His new interest has really formed into an obsessive talent.  He came upon it a few days ago and well, practice makes perfect.  He might very well be the loudest child belcher to have ever lived.  I usually try to encourage my children's natural talents, but I might have to make an exception this time.  On the bright side, this awesome new ability may be the key for him to become more socially accepted among his seven year old male peers.