Here's to the new year.

2007 was a rough year. I could recap, but I'm hoping to start the year in a positive light. I am looking forward to starting 2008 with a fresh look and a new energy. I have no "resolutions" because I am not setting up any expectations. I have learned that if you do not reach a goal, it can lead you to disappointment. If you achieve a goal, you tend to stop there because the goal has been met. Goals can be limiting as well (think IEP?) By not setting specific goals, I am hoping that I will strive my farthest, and surpass any "goals" that I may have set.

Jaysen goes back to school tomorrow- he's not thrilled in the least. I tried to tell him that there will be some changes when he returns (he's supposed to have a 30-day parapro, as well as a new behavior plan), but he wasn't having it. "It's January?" he asks. "Yes, it's January". "Nooooo!"

The universities in my state, are trying to pass a new degree. I don't know much about it, but it's supposedly a "degree in Autism" of sorts. I have to find out more information about it, but I'm really considering going for it. My current degree is in Sign Language Studies- Although I have always loved Sign and the Deaf Community, I was horribly misled about the marketability of my degree. It's a long story that perhaps I'll get into another time. Going back to school right now, would be very difficult for me. I have Jaysen, and a baby. Although I work full time, my financial situation is less than desirable. Would Jaysen be able to handle me being away at class (he has become SO clingy)? Would I be able to study or write papers? I really don't know. I just feel that if there is a way that I could help Jaysen, and students that will follow him, I need to at least try.

My heart really lies in advocacy. It always has. I have always taken up for the "underdog", even as a child, and advocacy is something I have always loved. The problem is- advocacy is a "volunteer" position. I would love to be the support to people (and in my case, parents)- Yes, I will fight for your child. Yes, I will go with you to meetings and IEP's. Yes, I will educate you about your rights. Yes, I will educate the schools about your rights as well. Yes, I will work with the team to provide a program where your child can thrive. Yes, you can call me at home for any reason. Blahbitty blah. The truth of it is, though- I need a full time job, with benefits. We all know the expense involved raising a child, especially a "special needs" child, and I couldn't do it on a volunteer basis. Why is money such an issue? Why can't we just go back to trading beads? I have lots of those. I'll trade you two shiny purple beads for this book? They're really shiny.

Oh well. It's a thought.

Happy New Year everyone.
May this year hold the best and brightest for you and your families.