Today, I looked forward to peace and quiet. That was quickly abandoned by a surprise visit from my daughter (along with her support person), a prolonged visit by my mother and 1/2 box of reduced guilt wheat crisps from Trader Joes. Who says food and 1/2 xanax can't cure what ails you? How do you deal with frustration?

Something forgotten: I am certain that I am not the only one who "googles" herself. While googling to see if I could find this very blog, I came across an article that I wrote in 1995 about a Neighborhood Playgroup that I started for Lauren when she a mere 6 years old. That was 20 years ago! If interested read the article (link below) which still has considerable merit even with all the efforts made by agency folks to conduct inclusion, this method demonstrates what parents can do in their own communities to include their child in the neighborhood. http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_go2827/is_n7_v25/ai_n28657310/?tag=content;col1

Yesterday, Lauren made a powerful decision. She decided that she did not want to go on her "vacation" to North Carolina. This was no easy decision as she was going with her dad, whom she adores, for a week. There was mention to her support staff that she didn't want to go but we thought it a passing thought. Lauren has been supported in the most authentic person centered practices that I have ever witnessed. She knows that she has power over her own life and she is now exercising it. What an amazing self-advocate she has become! I am continually amazed.