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You won't even believe this shit.
~MD
Showing posts with label Craptastic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Craptastic. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Monday, February 4, 2013
Decisions.
Head spinning....make it stop....
I have to make a decision.
I have to make a decision, and come to some terms I don't know that I'm ready to come to terms with just yet.
It's looking like next year, Jaysen will be moving into the self-contained, EI (emotionally impaired) classroom.
Ugh.
Okay, that wasn't too bad...
Here's what's going on.
The Autism Consultant explained it that Jaysen's educational predicament is unique because he has one foot in each program. He doesn't fit in total SpEd, but doesn't fit in GenEd either. Currently, Jaysen is struggling with mainstreaming. His behavior is impeding his classroom time, and that in turn is impeding his learning time.
Bottom line is despite everyone saying he is academically capable, Jaysen is having difficulty in the large, fast-paced, GenEd setting. We can say he's not getting the right supports, but honestly, he's in 6th grade. How long am I going to fight for different supports, only to have yet another year wasted away? He works really well in small group or 1:1. He does awesome, in fact. He learns best when the instructions or assignment can be "chunked" and presented in a different way. GenEd isn't structured to do that.
The self-contained class I visited at the middle school was pretty promising. I really liked the teacher, and he seemed to be focused on the student's education. The teacher, being EI certified, is used to dealing with explosive behaviors, and won't necessarily take them personally, but might be able to help Jaysen work through and process them.
What sealed the deal for me though, was the promise that even in the self-contained classroom, Jaysen will still progress forward in the GenEd curriculum, and maintain on a diploma-bound track.
This is HUGELY important to me/us right now.
Jaysen wants to go to college. He wants to be a kindergarten teacher.
In reality- do I know that he will or won't go to college? No, nobody knows that at this point. He's in 6th grade. But my point to the Team was, in 6th grade, it's far too early to close that door for good. They agreed, and assured me he would, at this point, remain diploma-bound.
In a nutshell:
(negatives)
Jaysen will not be mainstreamed. He will be removed from GenEd and placed in SpEd full time.
He would have little to no contact with the GenEd population.
He would be in in a classroom with kids that generally have moderate-severe behavior problems (red flag to possible increase Jaysen's aggression)
If he and the teacher don't "click", too bad, it's the only teacher he'll have for the next 2 years.
(positives)
Super small class size. This year, there are 2 students.
He will remain on diploma-bound grade level curriculum.
The teacher would be able to present information in different ways, so Jaysen better understands what's expected.
He could work at his own pace, and teaching would be more individualized (Y'know, like the I in IEP?).
When I discussed this with Jaysen, he seemed apprehensive about going to a new school at first. I asked him his thoughts about the bigger GenEd classroom this year, vs the smaller Resource Room, where he had basically been all year last year as his main room. He did say he liked the smaller RR better.
I'm a stressed out fracking mess, because once the motion is accepted, I am basically signing off on him saying "General Education does not work for my son".
And I am coming to terms that, y'know, it just doesn't. And that's okay.
It is okay, right?
Yes, it is okay.
Send booze.
Okay?
I have to make a decision.
I have to make a decision, and come to some terms I don't know that I'm ready to come to terms with just yet.
It's looking like next year, Jaysen will be moving into the self-contained, EI (emotionally impaired) classroom.
Ugh.
Okay, that wasn't too bad...
Here's what's going on.
The Autism Consultant explained it that Jaysen's educational predicament is unique because he has one foot in each program. He doesn't fit in total SpEd, but doesn't fit in GenEd either. Currently, Jaysen is struggling with mainstreaming. His behavior is impeding his classroom time, and that in turn is impeding his learning time.
Bottom line is despite everyone saying he is academically capable, Jaysen is having difficulty in the large, fast-paced, GenEd setting. We can say he's not getting the right supports, but honestly, he's in 6th grade. How long am I going to fight for different supports, only to have yet another year wasted away? He works really well in small group or 1:1. He does awesome, in fact. He learns best when the instructions or assignment can be "chunked" and presented in a different way. GenEd isn't structured to do that.
The self-contained class I visited at the middle school was pretty promising. I really liked the teacher, and he seemed to be focused on the student's education. The teacher, being EI certified, is used to dealing with explosive behaviors, and won't necessarily take them personally, but might be able to help Jaysen work through and process them.
What sealed the deal for me though, was the promise that even in the self-contained classroom, Jaysen will still progress forward in the GenEd curriculum, and maintain on a diploma-bound track.
This is HUGELY important to me/us right now.
Jaysen wants to go to college. He wants to be a kindergarten teacher.
In reality- do I know that he will or won't go to college? No, nobody knows that at this point. He's in 6th grade. But my point to the Team was, in 6th grade, it's far too early to close that door for good. They agreed, and assured me he would, at this point, remain diploma-bound.
In a nutshell:
(negatives)
Jaysen will not be mainstreamed. He will be removed from GenEd and placed in SpEd full time.
He would have little to no contact with the GenEd population.
He would be in in a classroom with kids that generally have moderate-severe behavior problems (red flag to possible increase Jaysen's aggression)
If he and the teacher don't "click", too bad, it's the only teacher he'll have for the next 2 years.
(positives)
Super small class size. This year, there are 2 students.
He will remain on diploma-bound grade level curriculum.
The teacher would be able to present information in different ways, so Jaysen better understands what's expected.
He could work at his own pace, and teaching would be more individualized (Y'know, like the I in IEP?).
When I discussed this with Jaysen, he seemed apprehensive about going to a new school at first. I asked him his thoughts about the bigger GenEd classroom this year, vs the smaller Resource Room, where he had basically been all year last year as his main room. He did say he liked the smaller RR better.
I'm a stressed out fracking mess, because once the motion is accepted, I am basically signing off on him saying "General Education does not work for my son".
And I am coming to terms that, y'know, it just doesn't. And that's okay.
It is okay, right?
Yes, it is okay.
Send booze.
Okay?
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Accommodation vs. Modification
Well, it's happened. The Team is talking about modifying Jaysen's curriculum.
Shit.
I mean, if it's what he needs, of course I am all for it and will support it fully.
But how do we know he needs it?
This is his first year being mainstreamed, due to technicalities of the district...
Their response to me was that he bombed his econ test. Okay...well he's also aced some other tests, so....?
I have a meeting next week to discuss it. We're also doing a REED and Hopes and Dreams? The REED (Review of Existing Educational Data) is to determine what evals we would need in his 3rd year re-eval coming in December, based on class reports and standardized tests. Mkay. The Hopes and Dreams? Sounds like a load of fluffy bullshit to me. Let me guess- we're all going to sit around in a kumbaya circle and talk about where we want to see Jaysen a year from now, then 3 years, 5 years, blah blah blah. Oh gawd, make it stop.....
Back to the issue at hand...
I'm pissed off that they just want to modify.
I don't think they've exhausted their efforts beyond a moderate attempt, and even then, it's been more of a "let's see what's on our bag of tricks" approach.
Yes, Jaysen has accommodations.
He has a parapro. He has extended time. He is allowed the option of working in a quieter environment. He is allowed breaks.
So what's the problem?
I'm not convinced that he knows how to use these "resources".
I'm not convinced that he is able to identify when he needs these "resources".
He knows he should take a break when he's upset, but does he know when he needs the break?
Jaysen has self-regulation issues. He misses the "cues" that tell us we are getting worked up, and can seemingly go from 0-60 in no time. Is a break effective, if he's already a 8 on a 1-10 scale?
The real problem???
Jaysen is one of those kids who is all over the board when you talk about function. He's smart, and he's verbal. That combination is usually assumed to be "high functioning", based on presentation. However, his verbal abilities are way above his cognitive ones. You can ask him a question, and he will answer it like he is "supposed to". Ask him to expand, or the same question phrased more open-ended? Omg, are we even having the same conversation? I tried studying with him for a test, the night before he knew NOTHING. He ended up acing the test. ACING it.
The problem is that Jaysen is so "internalized" (I just made that up), meaning that he perseverates, a lot. So much in fact, that I believe that's his main deficit. His perseveration leads to heightened anxiety, not knowing how to deal with that anxiety leads to heightened frustration, frustration leads to refusal, non-compliance, outbursts, or kaboom. He doesn't show outward measurable signs, so FBA's have been ineffective. They can't track what they can't see, and there are no patterns to pick up on. So to them, it looks like "totally random behavior".
Well we all know better than that. Nothing is "totally random". Something is happening, we just aren't able to identify it consistently. But it's not "random".
I'm all over the effing place on this post, no?
Anyway, because they can't identify patterns in Jaysen's behavior, they want to modify his curriculum because he's still getting frustrated and upset. They think a reducing expectations will help that.
I think that's kind of nuts.
You're telling me you can't identify what's upsetting Jaysen, so you are going to assume it's the expectations placed on him. You are also going to assume that reducing these expectations is going to decrease his frustration and raise his willingness to participate in school.
Let me ask you this.
I suck at math. Seriously, that's even exaggerating for me. I am embarrassed at how horrible my math skills are, and I should have been paying more attention in 3rd grade instead of stuffing my bra in the bathroom. But back to the topic....
If you put 20 algebra problems in front of me, and see that I am struggling with them, what can you do?
1- You can reduce the number of problems from 20 to 10.
This is great, if I even knew how to solve for "x" on even ONE problem, but I don't.
2-You can give me more time.
Another great one. I have even more time I have to spend in algebra hell...
3- You can give me a calculator.
Great. That whole "watch I can make it say hell and boobs" joke never gets old.
4- You can break it down and explain it to me in steps.
Now this may work...I have bigger boobs now and don't need to stuff my bra.
5- You can give me basic math facts instead of algebra.
This is a great option if I don't have a strong grasp on basic math and need to back up.
My point is, if you can't identify the problem, how do you know what the solution is? I think they are wanting to jump into "modification" (option 5), before 1-4 are exhausted. Moving from Accommodated to Modified curriculum is a huge deal. It means my son will never graduate with a diploma. It has the potential to affect his life negatively. He will not have the opportunity to attend college. He wants to go to college. He wants to be a teacher. Even if college isn't in the cards, I at least want him to have that option. Options are important, people.
I'm not comfortable that they've shown me he is unable to achieve the minimum required outcomes in the general setting with accommodations. What are those accommodations? That's where identifying the problem comes in.
I'm rambling again.
Because I'm frustrated.
Because Jaysen is *rightfuckingthere* on the fence.
I've asked for the Autism specialist to come in and observe. The Autism consultant is the douchebag from the "shitty school" who had no freaking idea anything about Autism in real life with real kids. But that's where I have to start.
I need help peeps.
I need your opinions, advice, experiences, stories, etc.
I need to know if it's better to not modify but maybe put in a more restrictive environment like up his sp.ed time and increase Resource? Or is it better to modify and keep in gen.ed?
I hate this.
Shit.
I mean, if it's what he needs, of course I am all for it and will support it fully.
But how do we know he needs it?
This is his first year being mainstreamed, due to technicalities of the district...
Their response to me was that he bombed his econ test. Okay...well he's also aced some other tests, so....?
I have a meeting next week to discuss it. We're also doing a REED and Hopes and Dreams? The REED (Review of Existing Educational Data) is to determine what evals we would need in his 3rd year re-eval coming in December, based on class reports and standardized tests. Mkay. The Hopes and Dreams? Sounds like a load of fluffy bullshit to me. Let me guess- we're all going to sit around in a kumbaya circle and talk about where we want to see Jaysen a year from now, then 3 years, 5 years, blah blah blah. Oh gawd, make it stop.....
Back to the issue at hand...
I'm pissed off that they just want to modify.
I don't think they've exhausted their efforts beyond a moderate attempt, and even then, it's been more of a "let's see what's on our bag of tricks" approach.
Yes, Jaysen has accommodations.
He has a parapro. He has extended time. He is allowed the option of working in a quieter environment. He is allowed breaks.
So what's the problem?
I'm not convinced that he knows how to use these "resources".
I'm not convinced that he is able to identify when he needs these "resources".
He knows he should take a break when he's upset, but does he know when he needs the break?
Jaysen has self-regulation issues. He misses the "cues" that tell us we are getting worked up, and can seemingly go from 0-60 in no time. Is a break effective, if he's already a 8 on a 1-10 scale?
The real problem???
Jaysen is one of those kids who is all over the board when you talk about function. He's smart, and he's verbal. That combination is usually assumed to be "high functioning", based on presentation. However, his verbal abilities are way above his cognitive ones. You can ask him a question, and he will answer it like he is "supposed to". Ask him to expand, or the same question phrased more open-ended? Omg, are we even having the same conversation? I tried studying with him for a test, the night before he knew NOTHING. He ended up acing the test. ACING it.
The problem is that Jaysen is so "internalized" (I just made that up), meaning that he perseverates, a lot. So much in fact, that I believe that's his main deficit. His perseveration leads to heightened anxiety, not knowing how to deal with that anxiety leads to heightened frustration, frustration leads to refusal, non-compliance, outbursts, or kaboom. He doesn't show outward measurable signs, so FBA's have been ineffective. They can't track what they can't see, and there are no patterns to pick up on. So to them, it looks like "totally random behavior".
Well we all know better than that. Nothing is "totally random". Something is happening, we just aren't able to identify it consistently. But it's not "random".
I'm all over the effing place on this post, no?
Anyway, because they can't identify patterns in Jaysen's behavior, they want to modify his curriculum because he's still getting frustrated and upset. They think a reducing expectations will help that.
I think that's kind of nuts.
You're telling me you can't identify what's upsetting Jaysen, so you are going to assume it's the expectations placed on him. You are also going to assume that reducing these expectations is going to decrease his frustration and raise his willingness to participate in school.
Let me ask you this.
I suck at math. Seriously, that's even exaggerating for me. I am embarrassed at how horrible my math skills are, and I should have been paying more attention in 3rd grade instead of stuffing my bra in the bathroom. But back to the topic....
If you put 20 algebra problems in front of me, and see that I am struggling with them, what can you do?
1- You can reduce the number of problems from 20 to 10.
This is great, if I even knew how to solve for "x" on even ONE problem, but I don't.
2-You can give me more time.
Another great one. I have even more time I have to spend in algebra hell...
3- You can give me a calculator.
Great. That whole "watch I can make it say hell and boobs" joke never gets old.
4- You can break it down and explain it to me in steps.
Now this may work...I have bigger boobs now and don't need to stuff my bra.
5- You can give me basic math facts instead of algebra.
This is a great option if I don't have a strong grasp on basic math and need to back up.
My point is, if you can't identify the problem, how do you know what the solution is? I think they are wanting to jump into "modification" (option 5), before 1-4 are exhausted. Moving from Accommodated to Modified curriculum is a huge deal. It means my son will never graduate with a diploma. It has the potential to affect his life negatively. He will not have the opportunity to attend college. He wants to go to college. He wants to be a teacher. Even if college isn't in the cards, I at least want him to have that option. Options are important, people.
I'm not comfortable that they've shown me he is unable to achieve the minimum required outcomes in the general setting with accommodations. What are those accommodations? That's where identifying the problem comes in.
I'm rambling again.
Because I'm frustrated.
Because Jaysen is *rightfuckingthere* on the fence.
I've asked for the Autism specialist to come in and observe. The Autism consultant is the douchebag from the "shitty school" who had no freaking idea anything about Autism in real life with real kids. But that's where I have to start.
I need help peeps.
I need your opinions, advice, experiences, stories, etc.
I need to know if it's better to not modify but maybe put in a more restrictive environment like up his sp.ed time and increase Resource? Or is it better to modify and keep in gen.ed?
I hate this.
Friday, June 1, 2012
Exercise can be bad for your health
Even with the "safety strap" on, kids and treadmills don't mix.
It was very scary for everyone, and he's pretty scraped up, but he'll be fine.
Jury's still out on me though.
*tweak*
Friday, September 9, 2011
Cellar Door
Does it ever seem like crazy stuff only happens to you? I hope so because I am really starting to think some Greater Being has it out for me or something, and I'd hate to go down alone. I'm eyeballing you, Xenu.
I mean seriously. Let's just look at this for a minute.
My house burns down. here
I do a botch job at cutting my thumb off with a can lid. here
I have a uterine ablation that had no success. here
I have a hysterectomy. here
I get parvo. here
My son needs surgery. here
I demand that my son stay in the school that he is currently in with his friends, only to find the new assistant principal is the old principal from the shitty-school-that-shall-not-be-named. (more on this later)
and oh yeah, I need another hysterectomy.
Yeah, see...the funny thing about me, is if there's ever "a very small percentage..." just accept and expect that I'm in that minute insignificant group of people that bizarre things happen to.
Because seriously who has two hysterectomies? Oh right, people who are me. It makes perfect sense now.
It's like a movie. Hysterectomy Part Deux: This time, it's cervical.
I'm pretty sure this is how wormholes are created.
If you meet your parallel self and you're way cooler than your real self- you're welcome.
I mean seriously. Let's just look at this for a minute.
My house burns down. here
I do a botch job at cutting my thumb off with a can lid. here
I have a uterine ablation that had no success. here
I have a hysterectomy. here
I get parvo. here
My son needs surgery. here
I demand that my son stay in the school that he is currently in with his friends, only to find the new assistant principal is the old principal from the shitty-school-that-shall-not-be-named. (more on this later)
and oh yeah, I need another hysterectomy.
Yeah, see...the funny thing about me, is if there's ever "a very small percentage..." just accept and expect that I'm in that minute insignificant group of people that bizarre things happen to.
Because seriously who has two hysterectomies? Oh right, people who are me. It makes perfect sense now.
It's like a movie. Hysterectomy Part Deux: This time, it's cervical.
I'm pretty sure this is how wormholes are created.
If you meet your parallel self and you're way cooler than your real self- you're welcome.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Come here often?
It's been way too long since I've posted, but we've been having some slightly bizarre illness happening here. Very high fevers and random barfing. No other complaints, just hot n barfy.
Anyway..
Jaysen's surgery went very well. Thank you all for your well wishes!The procedure was a bit more involved than originally anticipated, but the surgeon was able to complete it without complication.
Jaysen was really nervous- and by nervous, I mean he was scared out of his everlovin' mind...but once in the room, they did a good job of relaxing him (read: drugs), and it was over in a jiffy.
So freakin' cute.
Recovery on the other hand....notsomuch.
Apparently, my lil guy doesn't come out of anesthesia too well. He was really crotchety, and in a significant amount of pain. They gave him half a vicodin, and it wasn't long before I was pushing for them to give him the other half. The nurse was from the school of start small and increase doseage only if absolutely necessary. Mama has had a few surgeries in the not so distant past, and is from the school of the patient should be KTFO (knocked the fuck out) the day of and the day following surgery. Then, painkillers should be administered as necessary.
Add in a reaction to one of the medications and some unexplained chronic barfing....it was a rough few days there.
New belly button under construction:
Anyway..
Jaysen's surgery went very well. Thank you all for your well wishes!The procedure was a bit more involved than originally anticipated, but the surgeon was able to complete it without complication.
Jaysen was really nervous- and by nervous, I mean he was scared out of his everlovin' mind...but once in the room, they did a good job of relaxing him (read: drugs), and it was over in a jiffy.
 |
| Going.......... |
 |
| ........and gone. |
So freakin' cute.
Recovery on the other hand....notsomuch.
Apparently, my lil guy doesn't come out of anesthesia too well. He was really crotchety, and in a significant amount of pain. They gave him half a vicodin, and it wasn't long before I was pushing for them to give him the other half. The nurse was from the school of start small and increase doseage only if absolutely necessary. Mama has had a few surgeries in the not so distant past, and is from the school of the patient should be KTFO (knocked the fuck out) the day of and the day following surgery. Then, painkillers should be administered as necessary.
 |
| KTFO. |
Add in a reaction to one of the medications and some unexplained chronic barfing....it was a rough few days there.
New belly button under construction:The kid is tough.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
And lastly, this...
To catch up, part one and part two.
Thank you, everyone, for your words of comfort and support. They really mean a lot to me.
It seems that since my freakin' fire 2 years ago, I've been hit with a barrage of crap that just has no end. It sucks, and it is affecting me. To know that you all are out there helps ease the crappityness of it. So thank you.
We met with the surgeon, and apparently this is a congenital defect (because everyone needs more of that dontchaknow), and it's extremely rare. Like less than 1% of the population has this thing kickin'. And of course, it would happen to us. Anyway, as it stands now, we have to wait for the infection to clear up, and surgery for excision of urachal cyst is scheduled for May 19th. I have not told Jaysen yet, and don't plan on doing so until maybe the week of. When I tell him, he's going to flip. But he'll pull through, just like he did at the hospital. I am amazed at how far he has come. How tough he has gotten. He is now taking 3 pills 2 of which are full sized antibiotics. That is huge for my sensory defensive kid. Huge.
On a side note, I was at the Metro Parent Living With Autism seminar yesterday. It was pretty cool. You could just feel the love in some of those presentations. It really warmed my heart. I also met some cool people- Melissa Hunt-Sampey and I connected on Twitter, then she magically stopped following me later that day. Was it me? I don't know, probably. I met and had lunch with Staci Bockmann from My Great Kid, and I really enjoyed and found motivation in hearing how her son has blossomed in theater. And reconnected with behavior consultant Aubry Dodge, whom I absolutely luuuuurve. She is awesome. I've blogged about her here, but used the pseudonym "Audrey", 'cuz I'm ultra creative like that. Aside from the vendor who told me I must not like Jenny McCarthy because I'm jealous of her money and fame (yes, really), it was a good time.
So, that's the update.
Thank you, everyone, for your words of comfort and support. They really mean a lot to me.
It seems that since my freakin' fire 2 years ago, I've been hit with a barrage of crap that just has no end. It sucks, and it is affecting me. To know that you all are out there helps ease the crappityness of it. So thank you.
We met with the surgeon, and apparently this is a congenital defect (because everyone needs more of that dontchaknow), and it's extremely rare. Like less than 1% of the population has this thing kickin'. And of course, it would happen to us. Anyway, as it stands now, we have to wait for the infection to clear up, and surgery for excision of urachal cyst is scheduled for May 19th. I have not told Jaysen yet, and don't plan on doing so until maybe the week of. When I tell him, he's going to flip. But he'll pull through, just like he did at the hospital. I am amazed at how far he has come. How tough he has gotten. He is now taking 3 pills 2 of which are full sized antibiotics. That is huge for my sensory defensive kid. Huge.
On a side note, I was at the Metro Parent Living With Autism seminar yesterday. It was pretty cool. You could just feel the love in some of those presentations. It really warmed my heart. I also met some cool people- Melissa Hunt-Sampey and I connected on Twitter, then she magically stopped following me later that day. Was it me? I don't know, probably. I met and had lunch with Staci Bockmann from My Great Kid, and I really enjoyed and found motivation in hearing how her son has blossomed in theater. And reconnected with behavior consultant Aubry Dodge, whom I absolutely luuuuurve. She is awesome. I've blogged about her here, but used the pseudonym "Audrey", 'cuz I'm ultra creative like that. Aside from the vendor who told me I must not like Jenny McCarthy because I'm jealous of her money and fame (yes, really), it was a good time.
So, that's the update.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
And also this...
I received a phone call from the doctor at the hospital last evening.
Culture came back, and Jaysen needs a surgery consult first thing this morning. They wanted us in last evening, but I physically couldn't get him there before they closed.
Having trouble figuring out how this went from here are some antibiotics, call us if he doesn't get better to we have to get him in to see a surgeon immediately.
Am freaking out slightly.
And by slightly, I mean ohmyfreakingawd what the hello kitty is going on?
Spaztronic style.
Culture came back, and Jaysen needs a surgery consult first thing this morning. They wanted us in last evening, but I physically couldn't get him there before they closed.
Having trouble figuring out how this went from here are some antibiotics, call us if he doesn't get better to we have to get him in to see a surgeon immediately.
Am freaking out slightly.
And by slightly, I mean ohmyfreakingawd what the hello kitty is going on?
Spaztronic style.
Monday, April 25, 2011
And then there's that...
...now with more RAGEFACE.
For the past couple days, Jaysen's been complaining of a stomach ache. Dr. appt stated a urinary tract infection.
Y'know that "mom-voice" that says really, I'm sure that's a lovely diagnosis, but I just don't think that's what's going on here... The one that gets you labeled as "combative" and "non-compliant"? Yeah, well we get it for a reason, doktorz.
However, I accepted the dx under the promise they would get back with me once the culture came back from the lab.
Saturday, we spent the night in the hospital.
When I went to pick the kids up from Companion's house (note to self: Companion possibly needs a new moniker), Jaysen was still complaining his stomach hurt, and his belly button was "dirty". Upon inspection, the "dirt" was crusty something. Further inspection revealed that the crusties were pus. Lovely.
So I called the doctor again, who referred us to the outpatient pediatric clinic.
Dr. at the clinic swabbed his navel, handed the culture to me, and told us to immediately go to ER.
Whaaaaat?
"Emergency Room" and "Immediately" are words that when used together, automatically induce terror in a parent's heart.
So we went to Emergency. Immediately.
The doctors there were awesome.
They were efficient, informative, and let me know every little process they were considering. They involved me from the get go. They understood what it meant, the issues that Jaysen's ASD may present- they explained a procedure to me, and hung back while I explained it to Jaysen (and subsequently calmed him from the freakout trigger words "needle" and "medicine").
They understood about processing time, and respected that. They asked my opinion on what the best approach would be for them to get what they needed. They took their time to explain procedures further, in steps, so I could present it to him like that. They.were.awesome.
And Jaysen did an awesome job of letting the doctors know where his abdomen hurt and where it didn't. He followed directions, and responded to the questions asked of him (in his Jaysen-speak). He toughed it out and allowed them to examine him even when it was uncomfortable, even painful for him. Fear is a powerful sedative when it comes to Jaysen.
He was terrified of getting an IV, but he didn't try to punch the tech.
I almost did, however, because he was one of those who have to "dig around" for the vein once inside. Asshole.
I waited for Jaysen's adrenaline RAGEFACE to subside, and explained to him that this was where they would put any medicine he would have to take, and that was uber-cool because he wouldn't have to swallow any meds. He was unimpressed, until the nurse was fussing around and I told him she just gave him meds, and he didn't even know it. Then, it was kinda cool, and he wanted me to take pictures of the IV.
They wanted a CT scan.
Problem with a CT scan (besides the pesky radiation), is you have to drink this apparently nasty contrast liquid.
And no, putting it in apple juice doesn't make it any better.
Jaysen barfed it up. Twice.
They ended up putting contrast in his IV.
I asked about mild sedation- the doctor said "I figured you could go in there if you wanted to, I don't think he'll need sedation- you have a strong connection and work very well with him. It's really cool to see. I think he'll be fine with you there."
Aww! Thanks doc. I was meaning for me.
But he did do fine during the scan. I did too.
So....what's up with my crazy kid?
The official diagnosis is urachal remnant. And cellulitis.
The cellulitis is no biggie, but the urachal remnant part sounds tweakish.
Apparently, this is a congenital defect where the tract going from the bladder to the belly button does not close completely after birth.
It's this semi-open tract, that became infected.
We caught it early enough that it wasn't a deep infection, so that was good.
But it can be recurring, and if left untreated, is bad news bears.
Butchaknow what? I am so super proud of him.
He may not have been the bravest at first, but he followed mad directions, even in spite of his sensory issues and fear. He was a trooper at drinking his "stinky juice", and is swallowing his big antibiotic horse pills. Those are both little victories for him.
Actually, they're pretty huge.
And I am probably going to hell, but I love that last picture...
For the past couple days, Jaysen's been complaining of a stomach ache. Dr. appt stated a urinary tract infection.
Y'know that "mom-voice" that says really, I'm sure that's a lovely diagnosis, but I just don't think that's what's going on here... The one that gets you labeled as "combative" and "non-compliant"? Yeah, well we get it for a reason, doktorz.
However, I accepted the dx under the promise they would get back with me once the culture came back from the lab.
Saturday, we spent the night in the hospital.
When I went to pick the kids up from Companion's house (note to self: Companion possibly needs a new moniker), Jaysen was still complaining his stomach hurt, and his belly button was "dirty". Upon inspection, the "dirt" was crusty something. Further inspection revealed that the crusties were pus. Lovely.
So I called the doctor again, who referred us to the outpatient pediatric clinic.
Dr. at the clinic swabbed his navel, handed the culture to me, and told us to immediately go to ER.
Whaaaaat?
"Emergency Room" and "Immediately" are words that when used together, automatically induce terror in a parent's heart.
So we went to Emergency. Immediately.
The doctors there were awesome.
They were efficient, informative, and let me know every little process they were considering. They involved me from the get go. They understood what it meant, the issues that Jaysen's ASD may present- they explained a procedure to me, and hung back while I explained it to Jaysen (and subsequently calmed him from the freakout trigger words "needle" and "medicine").
They understood about processing time, and respected that. They asked my opinion on what the best approach would be for them to get what they needed. They took their time to explain procedures further, in steps, so I could present it to him like that. They.were.awesome.
And Jaysen did an awesome job of letting the doctors know where his abdomen hurt and where it didn't. He followed directions, and responded to the questions asked of him (in his Jaysen-speak). He toughed it out and allowed them to examine him even when it was uncomfortable, even painful for him. Fear is a powerful sedative when it comes to Jaysen.
He was terrified of getting an IV, but he didn't try to punch the tech.
I almost did, however, because he was one of those who have to "dig around" for the vein once inside. Asshole.
I waited for Jaysen's adrenaline RAGEFACE to subside, and explained to him that this was where they would put any medicine he would have to take, and that was uber-cool because he wouldn't have to swallow any meds. He was unimpressed, until the nurse was fussing around and I told him she just gave him meds, and he didn't even know it. Then, it was kinda cool, and he wanted me to take pictures of the IV.
They wanted a CT scan.
Problem with a CT scan (besides the pesky radiation), is you have to drink this apparently nasty contrast liquid.
And no, putting it in apple juice doesn't make it any better.
Jaysen barfed it up. Twice.
They ended up putting contrast in his IV.
I asked about mild sedation- the doctor said "I figured you could go in there if you wanted to, I don't think he'll need sedation- you have a strong connection and work very well with him. It's really cool to see. I think he'll be fine with you there."
Aww! Thanks doc. I was meaning for me.
But he did do fine during the scan. I did too.
So....what's up with my crazy kid?
The official diagnosis is urachal remnant. And cellulitis.
The cellulitis is no biggie, but the urachal remnant part sounds tweakish.
Apparently, this is a congenital defect where the tract going from the bladder to the belly button does not close completely after birth.
It's this semi-open tract, that became infected.
We caught it early enough that it wasn't a deep infection, so that was good.
But it can be recurring, and if left untreated, is bad news bears.
Butchaknow what? I am so super proud of him.
He may not have been the bravest at first, but he followed mad directions, even in spite of his sensory issues and fear. He was a trooper at drinking his "stinky juice", and is swallowing his big antibiotic horse pills. Those are both little victories for him.
Actually, they're pretty huge.
And I am probably going to hell, but I love that last picture...
Thursday, April 21, 2011
And history repeats itself.
I'm starting to think The Universe is against me. Seriously.
What's that line...the Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away?
Indian-giver.
If you've followed this blog for awhile-
a) you are undoubtedly super amazingly COOL and b) you will remember that we did not get Jaysen into a fantabulous school without a fight.
A fight that cost him years of education, set him back socially, and shattered my trust and faith in humanity.
A fight I am afraid I am going to have to embark on yet again.
I don't know if I have the strength to do this.
I received a call from V, the supervisor of Special Education.
She informed me via phone message, that it's okay Jaysen follow through with the good school for upper elementary for 5th and 6th grade, but for middle and high school, she says he has to get back on track with our "home" schools.
Hmm. Let's think about that for a minute.
My son was put through so much hell at one school, that you yourself- the supervisor of Special Education- said it was despicable, and he should not be subjected to that treatment. You were there when my son was isolated from his peers and an appropriate education for over 4 months. You were there when the teacher got the parents to rally- calling him a "monster", said he should be in a separate class, not allowed around other kids, and when were their kids going to get "special attention" like him? You were there when the principal blatently lied about her actions, and violated multiple ethical and legal avenues. You even had to reign her in.
You were also the one who toured the other schools with us. You were the one who said the school we toured (Jaysen's current school), would be a much more accepting and encouraging environment. You gushed on and on how this would be a productive and successful environment for him. That he would flourish. And he is.
So it's kind of beyond me, why he is being transferred back to the school system that was horrible to him.
And the kicker?
The shit-eating principal from the crappy school? Is at the middle school you want him in.
There is something really feckered up about that.
What's that line...the Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away?
Indian-giver.
If you've followed this blog for awhile-
a) you are undoubtedly super amazingly COOL and b) you will remember that we did not get Jaysen into a fantabulous school without a fight.
A fight that cost him years of education, set him back socially, and shattered my trust and faith in humanity.
A fight I am afraid I am going to have to embark on yet again.
I don't know if I have the strength to do this.
I received a call from V, the supervisor of Special Education.
She informed me via phone message, that it's okay Jaysen follow through with the good school for upper elementary for 5th and 6th grade, but for middle and high school, she says he has to get back on track with our "home" schools.
Hmm. Let's think about that for a minute.
My son was put through so much hell at one school, that you yourself- the supervisor of Special Education- said it was despicable, and he should not be subjected to that treatment. You were there when my son was isolated from his peers and an appropriate education for over 4 months. You were there when the teacher got the parents to rally- calling him a "monster", said he should be in a separate class, not allowed around other kids, and when were their kids going to get "special attention" like him? You were there when the principal blatently lied about her actions, and violated multiple ethical and legal avenues. You even had to reign her in.
You were also the one who toured the other schools with us. You were the one who said the school we toured (Jaysen's current school), would be a much more accepting and encouraging environment. You gushed on and on how this would be a productive and successful environment for him. That he would flourish. And he is.
So it's kind of beyond me, why he is being transferred back to the school system that was horrible to him.
And the kicker?
The shit-eating principal from the crappy school? Is at the middle school you want him in.
There is something really feckered up about that.
Monday, November 29, 2010
He called the shit, poo.
Remember the Black Cloud o' Doom that I have inherited? The one that follows me everywhere? The one that I can't catch a break from?
Yeah....that one.
It striketh again.
And has possessed the soul of The Red One.
Friday, I noticed a little puddle on the floor of the basement. It was coming from a pipe, and since this is new construction, I have no idea which pipes lead to what, or what comes from which pipes. But it was small, I figured that with all the water I had been using, it just overshot the drain.
Oh no. I should have known better.
Because Saturday came, and there was a whole lotta water in the basement. And it stunk. Like a men's bathroom at a seedy gas station. Or Comerica Park. Or my ex-hubby. Hmm.
Upon closer inspection, it became evident that the gods of all that is freaktabular bestowed onto me, the gift of a backed up sewer. How awesome is that. So I was standing in shitwater. Literally. So disgusting.
I debated about calling the plumber that night or the next day, but when started to be able to identify what was floating in the water, I decided to call. Of course it was after hours. Of course it was a weekend. Of course it was a holiday weekend. Of course that meant a buttload of extra money. Christ-in-a-hotdog-bun.
Plumber came out from 6-8p. And $500 later, he said my pipes looked good except for the pair of underwear clogging the drain to the sewer. Oh and bytheway I'm going to have to replace the carpeting, because "that is never coming out". Wait, back up...underwear??? Um...yeah. When I was gloating about Rylan starting to potty train? Well gloating comes back to bite you in the ass. That karma thing, ya know. I was a freaking oblivious lying idiot, because he ditched his skivvies in the toilet. He has also tried to flush numerous rolls of toilet paper. Full rolls.
So he's grounded until he's 12.
And not allowed to wear underwear unless they're made of duct tape.
Yeah....that one.
It striketh again.
And has possessed the soul of The Red One.
Friday, I noticed a little puddle on the floor of the basement. It was coming from a pipe, and since this is new construction, I have no idea which pipes lead to what, or what comes from which pipes. But it was small, I figured that with all the water I had been using, it just overshot the drain.
Oh no. I should have known better.
Because Saturday came, and there was a whole lotta water in the basement. And it stunk. Like a men's bathroom at a seedy gas station. Or Comerica Park. Or my ex-hubby. Hmm.
Upon closer inspection, it became evident that the gods of all that is freaktabular bestowed onto me, the gift of a backed up sewer. How awesome is that. So I was standing in shitwater. Literally. So disgusting.
I debated about calling the plumber that night or the next day, but when started to be able to identify what was floating in the water, I decided to call. Of course it was after hours. Of course it was a weekend. Of course it was a holiday weekend. Of course that meant a buttload of extra money. Christ-in-a-hotdog-bun.
Plumber came out from 6-8p. And $500 later, he said my pipes looked good except for the pair of underwear clogging the drain to the sewer. Oh and bytheway I'm going to have to replace the carpeting, because "that is never coming out". Wait, back up...underwear??? Um...yeah. When I was gloating about Rylan starting to potty train? Well gloating comes back to bite you in the ass. That karma thing, ya know. I was a freaking oblivious lying idiot, because he ditched his skivvies in the toilet. He has also tried to flush numerous rolls of toilet paper. Full rolls.
So he's grounded until he's 12.
And not allowed to wear underwear unless they're made of duct tape.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Snot fun.
Seriously...
Allergies are killin' me.
I've never had seasonal allergies, ever- until a couple of years ago.
I don't know how people actually live like this.
I want to gouge my eyeballs out and slough my nose off with sandpaper.
Ugh.
This sucks.
It's 3:30 am, and I can't sleep because the suckage in my face is so bad.
Because seasonal allergies are so new to me, I have no idea what the eff I'm even allergic to, or even how to treat it.
Yes, I'm taking medication...no it's obviously not working.
Meh.
Allergies are killin' me.
I've never had seasonal allergies, ever- until a couple of years ago.
I don't know how people actually live like this.
I want to gouge my eyeballs out and slough my nose off with sandpaper.
Ugh.
This sucks.
It's 3:30 am, and I can't sleep because the suckage in my face is so bad.
Because seasonal allergies are so new to me, I have no idea what the eff I'm even allergic to, or even how to treat it.
Yes, I'm taking medication...no it's obviously not working.
Meh.
Friday, June 11, 2010
SIBs suck.
Some of you will immediately recognize the following.
Others, I hope will understand why sometimes the circles under my eyes are so dark, or why I may seem preoccupied...
What would you do...... if you noticed marks on your child's body like this?
Now.....what if the marks were self-inflicted?
Others, I hope will understand why sometimes the circles under my eyes are so dark, or why I may seem preoccupied...
What would you do...... if you noticed marks on your child's body like this?
Or this?.........
Now.....what if the marks were self-inflicted?
No matter how seasoned I become as a parent, SIBs (Self Injurious Behaviors) are still one of the most heart-wrenching things for me to witness. This is not the first time for us, nor is it the last, but it never gets easier no matter how many times you bear witness to your child self harming.
Jaysen's frustration and anxiety, coupled with his inability to self-regulate, create an emotional abattoir to which the only acceptable release is to launch into a physical attack on himself. Usually the incidents are short-lived, but with repeated blows, he carries the bruises for days, if not weeks.
My heart carries the trauma much longer.
The part that tears me apart is, I am utterly helpless. I can't help him. I can't stop him. I can't make it better, or take the pain away. I can only try to keep him safe at the time. Try to make sure there is as minimal damage inflicted as possible.
Because I know I am not alone in dealing with this...
Extra love to you all dealing with the same.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Back to the OR... *update*
Well.... I wish I had some good news to report, but it seems my black cloud o' doom has morphed into a vortex.
A few weeks back when gouged my hand on the lid to a can of green beans? Yeah. Apparently I severed the ulnar nerve. Come to find out that not only is that not a good thing, it is actually quite the opposite of a good thing.
I found all of this out yesterday. I go in for surgery tomorrow.
Quick? Yes. Opposite of good.
The surgery is in hopes to reattach the nerve. This in turn, is in hopes of returning "protective sensation" to my hand- meaning the ability to discern hot and cold. Helpful, but I'd really like some function back. And to take away the pain from the neuroma. That would be nice too.
But noooooo!.....
Because I do things grandiose, I was also diagnosed with CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome), formerly known as RSD. In a nutshell, this means my nerve and brain are not communicating, and if something touches my hand, my brain tells my entire body that it is in pain. Literally. The doc tapped my hand, and I jumped out of my chair at the electric lightening bolt that coursed up my left arm, through my chest, and down my right arm. I told the doc that whoever came up with that test was an asshole, and I wasn't sure I really liked him anymore either. It didn't matter because the shiz is permanent. Which made my day so much, I cried tears of joy. That wasn't joy? Oh. Then I must have been crying for reals because permanent pain? Who wouldn't love that?
The surgery will not restore function or feeling (other than hot/cold) to my hand area, but it will hopefully alleviate the pain. OR.... it could make the pain, Teh Pain. Teh Pain sucks. I could develop full blown CRPS, which I know is horrible, because Dollface developed it after her surgery. This is where the hand changes colors, textures, and is so sensitive to anything that even air blowing across it, sends you into extreme pain overload. And?... I'm high risk. Not everyone gets full blown CRPS, but it affects mostly women, and even more so emotional women. I'm so screwed. Since they are aware that I am high risk, I'll be monitored closely. If I do start to develop symptoms, they will haul my ass into PT and attempt desensitization. Fabulous.
I have to have the surgery- I can't have a severed nerve just chillin' in my hand. And my docs (first and second opinions) both think the benefits outweigh the risks, and I am trusting them. So. Once again, I am calling on you, my lovely readers and friends, for your positive thoughts.
I will update when I am able.
Wish me luck and stay away from evil cans of green beans!
And somebody please find that damn voodoo doll...
A few weeks back when gouged my hand on the lid to a can of green beans? Yeah. Apparently I severed the ulnar nerve. Come to find out that not only is that not a good thing, it is actually quite the opposite of a good thing.
I found all of this out yesterday. I go in for surgery tomorrow.
Quick? Yes. Opposite of good.
The surgery is in hopes to reattach the nerve. This in turn, is in hopes of returning "protective sensation" to my hand- meaning the ability to discern hot and cold. Helpful, but I'd really like some function back. And to take away the pain from the neuroma. That would be nice too.
But noooooo!.....
Because I do things grandiose, I was also diagnosed with CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome), formerly known as RSD. In a nutshell, this means my nerve and brain are not communicating, and if something touches my hand, my brain tells my entire body that it is in pain. Literally. The doc tapped my hand, and I jumped out of my chair at the electric lightening bolt that coursed up my left arm, through my chest, and down my right arm. I told the doc that whoever came up with that test was an asshole, and I wasn't sure I really liked him anymore either. It didn't matter because the shiz is permanent. Which made my day so much, I cried tears of joy. That wasn't joy? Oh. Then I must have been crying for reals because permanent pain? Who wouldn't love that?
The surgery will not restore function or feeling (other than hot/cold) to my hand area, but it will hopefully alleviate the pain. OR.... it could make the pain, Teh Pain. Teh Pain sucks. I could develop full blown CRPS, which I know is horrible, because Dollface developed it after her surgery. This is where the hand changes colors, textures, and is so sensitive to anything that even air blowing across it, sends you into extreme pain overload. And?... I'm high risk. Not everyone gets full blown CRPS, but it affects mostly women, and even more so emotional women. I'm so screwed. Since they are aware that I am high risk, I'll be monitored closely. If I do start to develop symptoms, they will haul my ass into PT and attempt desensitization. Fabulous.
I have to have the surgery- I can't have a severed nerve just chillin' in my hand. And my docs (first and second opinions) both think the benefits outweigh the risks, and I am trusting them. So. Once again, I am calling on you, my lovely readers and friends, for your positive thoughts.
I will update when I am able.
Wish me luck and stay away from evil cans of green beans!
And somebody please find that damn voodoo doll...
*******UPDATE*******
Surgery went well- Once he got in there, he found my nerve had wrapped itself around, and attached to, a vein and a ligament. Sounds pretty gruesome. Other than that, everything went according to plan. Jaysen is still processing, but I think the huge wrapping and sling are giving him the visual cues he needs. Lol.
Like dis...
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
It's getting dark in here.
I can't seem to find the time lately, to stay up on posting.
I read all of your blogs, yet can't find the energy to make entries on this one.
Ugh.
There's a lot of things going on now- most of them not very good.
For example, my kids have been abducted by aliens and replaced with sassy, back-talking, fighting, aggressive heathens. Jaysen is losing his freakin' mind and Rylan is following in the footsteps of his big brother.
The.Effing.Games.
Jaysen is obsessed with getting a Gameboy Color, now.
Apparently, he neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeds one.
Or he may die.
Or hate me for life.
He has a Wii and a DS, so said child is by no means deprived.
The Gameboy is relatively cheap (used), but I have no idea how much the games are.
The kicker is, he just wants it for one game.
Mario something-or-other.
That he has for the DS, but it's available for a Gameboy, so now he wants to play it on a Gameboy.
I do not want to purchase a Gameboy just so he can play this one game.
Reason number two is, The Games? They bring out The Crazy in him.
Seriously.
If he is playing a game and something doesn't go as planned, this boy will Lose.His.Shit.
He's going to give himself a stroke.
He starts tantrumming, redfaced, screaming, tears, jumping up and down like the Holy Ghost is in him, and becomes self-injurious and destructive. He's even starting to leave bruises on his face from the SIBs. And they're way more intense than before.
It's not a typical Jaysen-ASD-style-Tantrum though. These are quick. Almost out of nowhere. An intense burst of raw anger. So much anger. So out of control.
It's not only no fun, it's scary.
I know it's coming from somewhere- that he's trying to tell me something that I'm just not connecting with- but I'm at such a loss.
He's also been acting out in school, destroying things when he gets angry or upset, so it's pretty much across the board, and not just at home.
The only thing I got for Mother's Day, was a painting he did in school.
Yesterday, he ripped it to shreds because I told him he needed to calm down if he wanted to continue his Wii game.
Nice, thanks.
My hand is killing me.
You cannot even imagine how much this nerve damage stuff hurts.
So now I have to deal with The Crazy, on top of The Frankenhand.
I am holding fast to the idea that there is someone out there who has a voodoo doll of me, and is abusing the hell out of it.
If you see them, please poke them with sticks until they stop.
I would totally do it for you.
I read all of your blogs, yet can't find the energy to make entries on this one.
Ugh.
There's a lot of things going on now- most of them not very good.
For example, my kids have been abducted by aliens and replaced with sassy, back-talking, fighting, aggressive heathens. Jaysen is losing his freakin' mind and Rylan is following in the footsteps of his big brother.
The.Effing.Games.
Jaysen is obsessed with getting a Gameboy Color, now.
Apparently, he neeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeds one.
Or he may die.
Or hate me for life.
He has a Wii and a DS, so said child is by no means deprived.
The Gameboy is relatively cheap (used), but I have no idea how much the games are.
The kicker is, he just wants it for one game.
Mario something-or-other.
That he has for the DS, but it's available for a Gameboy, so now he wants to play it on a Gameboy.
I do not want to purchase a Gameboy just so he can play this one game.
Reason number two is, The Games? They bring out The Crazy in him.
Seriously.
If he is playing a game and something doesn't go as planned, this boy will Lose.His.Shit.
He's going to give himself a stroke.
He starts tantrumming, redfaced, screaming, tears, jumping up and down like the Holy Ghost is in him, and becomes self-injurious and destructive. He's even starting to leave bruises on his face from the SIBs. And they're way more intense than before.
It's not a typical Jaysen-ASD-style-Tantrum though. These are quick. Almost out of nowhere. An intense burst of raw anger. So much anger. So out of control.
It's not only no fun, it's scary.
I know it's coming from somewhere- that he's trying to tell me something that I'm just not connecting with- but I'm at such a loss.
He's also been acting out in school, destroying things when he gets angry or upset, so it's pretty much across the board, and not just at home.
The only thing I got for Mother's Day, was a painting he did in school.
Yesterday, he ripped it to shreds because I told him he needed to calm down if he wanted to continue his Wii game.
Nice, thanks.
My hand is killing me.
You cannot even imagine how much this nerve damage stuff hurts.
So now I have to deal with The Crazy, on top of The Frankenhand.
I am holding fast to the idea that there is someone out there who has a voodoo doll of me, and is abusing the hell out of it.
If you see them, please poke them with sticks until they stop.
I would totally do it for you.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Mommy~dearest now with Frankenhand grip! Order now and receive 6 stitches free!
Mercury is obviously retrograde- but it's getting more difficult to tell, because it seems I just can't catch a break. Ever. Like not since 1978 or so.
Maybe all this craptastic stuff is happening for a reason.
Maybe I'm going to be rewarded with something huge.
Or maybe it's a sign I should resign this blog.
Maybe someone cursed me.
Whatever's going on, it needs to stop.
Because really?
I was just trying to open a can of green beans, not audition as a Gorefest 2010 hand model.
Behold The Frankenhand...
Am sexxxy to even the undead now.
Friday, April 30, 2010
*Crickets*
I'm still here. I think. Just haven't had much time (or energy) to write.
The bright side is that although the kids are whoopin' my arse, there hasn't been much to report, so that's good news, right?
Keeping it real, the kids are berzerker.
Like, omg-who-is-slipping-them-energy-drinks-behind-my-back kind of berzerker.
The Fighting. I cannot take The Fighting.
And I would like to personally thank those who taught my children the finer points of The Whining. They are professionals now. Probably black belts.
I do not know which is worse- The Fighting, or The Whining.
They both drive me batshit insane.
As if my emotional zombies weren't enough, I am completely fatigued from the surgery. It was over a month ago, but I guess the fatigue can last for up to a year? Yeah, thanks for that little forewarning there, guys! Ugh.
I'd bitch more, but I.Am.Exhausted.
Hope to post more regularly soon...
The bright side is that although the kids are whoopin' my arse, there hasn't been much to report, so that's good news, right?
Keeping it real, the kids are berzerker.
Like, omg-who-is-slipping-them-energy-drinks-behind-my-back kind of berzerker.
The Fighting. I cannot take The Fighting.
And I would like to personally thank those who taught my children the finer points of The Whining. They are professionals now. Probably black belts.
I do not know which is worse- The Fighting, or The Whining.
They both drive me batshit insane.
As if my emotional zombies weren't enough, I am completely fatigued from the surgery. It was over a month ago, but I guess the fatigue can last for up to a year? Yeah, thanks for that little forewarning there, guys! Ugh.
I'd bitch more, but I.Am.Exhausted.
Hope to post more regularly soon...
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Messing with a good thing.
They're trying to make me crazy.
The school district, that is.
Everything revolves around budgeting.
No money here, no funding there...
What to do...what to do...
Let's mess with the schools!
The voted on proposal that passed, was to close 4 elementary schools (that's 1/3 of our elementary schools), make the remaining elementaries K-4, have 2 middle schools for grades 5-6, and 2 more for 7-8.
Does that make any sense?
Apparently to someone it does.
*sidenote - One of the schools that's closing, is the craptastic school that treated Jaysen horribly, so... Karma, biatches! *
Jaysen has been doing so well this year, comparatively. I mean so well.
He's staying in the Gen.Ed class almost all day, and tolerating it. He has friends. He's even in an after school tutoring program one day a week.
This is the first year he's actually going to school every day without a fight.
The new plan for our schools means:
Jaysen will only have one more year at The Awesome School. And it will be a transition year, so focus will be put on transitioning, not the things he's just started to work on this year, like increasing his workload tolerance and academics. Dammit- he really needs that extra year at this school.
So. One more year at The Awesome School.
Then he'll go to middle school for 5th and 6th grade.
After 6th grade, he'll go to a different middle school for 7th and 8th grade.
Then to high school for 9th-12th.
That's 3 transitions. And I'm talking transitions in only the physical location sense. I'm not even counting the internal transitions of "new school", "new teachers, peers, classwork, routines, etc".
This is going to be hell on a kid who doesn't transition well.
As soon he gets into a routine and settled, he's going to have to completely switch schools again.
Fuk.
I need to get my advocacy cape back on.
I know this sounds bizarre, but I'm not even sure what it is exactly that I'm preparing to advocate for!
Has anyone else run into anything like this?
The school district, that is.
Everything revolves around budgeting.
No money here, no funding there...
What to do...what to do...
Let's mess with the schools!
The voted on proposal that passed, was to close 4 elementary schools (that's 1/3 of our elementary schools), make the remaining elementaries K-4, have 2 middle schools for grades 5-6, and 2 more for 7-8.
Does that make any sense?
Apparently to someone it does.
*sidenote - One of the schools that's closing, is the craptastic school that treated Jaysen horribly, so... Karma, biatches! *
Jaysen has been doing so well this year, comparatively. I mean so well.
He's staying in the Gen.Ed class almost all day, and tolerating it. He has friends. He's even in an after school tutoring program one day a week.
This is the first year he's actually going to school every day without a fight.
The new plan for our schools means:
Jaysen will only have one more year at The Awesome School. And it will be a transition year, so focus will be put on transitioning, not the things he's just started to work on this year, like increasing his workload tolerance and academics. Dammit- he really needs that extra year at this school.
So. One more year at The Awesome School.
Then he'll go to middle school for 5th and 6th grade.
After 6th grade, he'll go to a different middle school for 7th and 8th grade.
Then to high school for 9th-12th.
That's 3 transitions. And I'm talking transitions in only the physical location sense. I'm not even counting the internal transitions of "new school", "new teachers, peers, classwork, routines, etc".
This is going to be hell on a kid who doesn't transition well.
As soon he gets into a routine and settled, he's going to have to completely switch schools again.
Fuk.
I need to get my advocacy cape back on.
I know this sounds bizarre, but I'm not even sure what it is exactly that I'm preparing to advocate for!
Has anyone else run into anything like this?
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Rants of the day...
I've been informed of the demolition going well, as noted by Jaysen's call to me at work.
"Mom! You're missin' it! This is awesome! You're totally missin' it! You have to see dis!"
So there's that.
Then there's this.
Today was a monumental milestone.
I found my first gray hair.
Technically, it's translucent. Void of color.
But still. Two things went through my mind.
Number one - I've managed to make it to twenty-sixteen without a single gray. I guess it was bound to happen sometime.
And number two - WTF is this doing in my eyebrow?
Yes, my eyebrow.
Meh.
"Mom! You're missin' it! This is awesome! You're totally missin' it! You have to see dis!"
So there's that.
Then there's this.
Today was a monumental milestone.
I found my first gray hair.
Technically, it's translucent. Void of color.
But still. Two things went through my mind.
Number one - I've managed to make it to twenty-sixteen without a single gray. I guess it was bound to happen sometime.
And number two - WTF is this doing in my eyebrow?
Yes, my eyebrow.
Meh.
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