S.M.A.A.R.T.Mom's Slogan!

S.M.A.A.R.T.Moms DON'T Just Roar....
WE ROAR , FLAP, AND JUMP!

Join Me @ The Autism Support Network

Join Me at The Autism Support Network!

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

"Autism Run 5K Pictures" : brought to you by, S.M.A.A.R.T.Mom

So I participated in my first Autism Run. What a Challenge!
Call me crazy for my "Boo Bear":) I've always joined the Autism Walks; but when I found out about an Autism Run I just had to give it a try. My good friend Shalley decided to accompany me. The Run was soooo invigorating; but I considered this experience to be not only an original way to get a "Mommy Time-Out", but a definite way to release any stress I needed to release:)
I know the word "Run" makes some people moan and groan, but I really encourage you to say instead......."Why Not! I can at least give it a TRY. Never underestimate what you are capable of.
See you at the next Autism Run, OK?

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

"Art for Autism" Picture: Dustin WINS Contest! brought to you by, A Very Proud S.M.A.A.R.T.Mom & Dad!


So here's how it happened....We attended the Autism Walk like we do every year. Dustin loves to see Ronald McDonald in person there:) I heard about an art contest prior to the walk called "Art for Autism"by Javamo Coffees. I wasn't sure if Dustin would get what I was asking of him regarding a drawing for the coffee package. I showed him a picture of last years winner and basically left him with paper and markers while I did the dishes. I saw him begin to draw not knowing what to expect. After I finished the dishes I went over to the table and was SO AMAZED! I thought to myself; this has to be entered in to the contest for sure. Of course as any parent I felt his drawing should be chosen; but of course we never win anything, you know? So even though I felt it should win I really didn't think it would. Well we went to the walk and of course everyone was there and there were soooo many drawings already submitted in the contest. I thought "What are his chances now?" Well after I heard the contest deadline was up; I waited for an update for the winners name. I went to check my email and there it was..... a letter from ASGO (The Autism Society of Greater Orlando) informing me that Dustin's Drawing was Chosen! I immediately jumped up from my computer and ran through the house screaming "Oh My God! Oh My God!" You'd think I won the lottery. My family figured I'd finally loss my mind. But I didn't care... I was so extremely PROUD of Dustin! And now everyone who got the same informant I did as well as purchased this Wonderful Autism Awareness Blend Coffee would know how SPECIAL our son with autism really is and how artistic and creative he is:) I wish Dustin knew how this made me feel. But I know regardless of all of this..........Dustin knows Mommy loves him soooooo much that she could "Eat Dustin Up....Yum Yum Yum Yum" as Dustin would say:) To whom ever is reading this....Thanks for sharing this moment with me and I to the parent(s) of next years winner of Art for Autism.......As for all of those down days with Autism; this is most definitely an UP Day with Autism..........Enjoy every moment!
       
                                                                 
                                                                         




Click On Coffee Picture Below to See Dustin in The Orlando Sentinel News

(Interactive Button)

Monday, April 6, 2009

"Autism @ The Zoo Boo Bash 2008' Picture: brought to you by, S.M.A.A.R.T.Mom

Happy Halloween! Like every year we enjoy going to the Zoo Boo Bash. It has really been great therapy for Dustin and his fear of animals. He has become very comfortable with the animals. He doesn't touch the ones you're aloud to touch; however, he has expressed an interest which allows him to at least approach them closer than he ever has before. That's o.k. though, he's made soooo much progress and I'm more then patient because I know he will eventually and usually unexpectedly will amaze me and bring more tears of joy. So we will continue our trips to the Zoo and wait for those magic moments. By the way we do get dressed in costume and I really hope to encourage other moms and dads to reach within themselves and revisit their inner child and do the same. My sixteen year old daughter thinks I'm silly for dressing up with Dustin. I , on the other hand am a believer of living every moment as if it were my last, to truly enjoy life, and enjoy making those memorable moments. Oh, and yes, we go to our "usual" place to eat lunch (costume and all). People may think I'm "crazy" but that's alright. I am crazy. Crazy about my children:)