Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Just For Fun

All blogging plans have gone to the wind this week. With Thanksgiving almost here (in the States), I don't expect much to change before the weekend, at best! So, just for fun, if you had to choose between Tofurkey and fruitcake, what would you choose?

I promise I'll share my answer if we get to 25 votes! (The poll is to the right -->)

Have a great week!

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Day Two of the Conference

The second day of the Future Horizon's Autism Asperger's SuperConference was the most anticipated, by far. Not only by me. Not only by my sister. But by the attendees, evident by the crowded room.

Wearing her trademark shirt and tie, Temple Grandin started the morning. And she started on time. And heaven help anyone who forgets to hold her hotel room for her. (Of all the people to overbook...)

Temple Grandin was remarkable. She squeezed more into 90 minutes than anyone I've ever heard. And she was efficient, entertaining, and enlightening. Unlike the day before, the room was quiet as all eyes and ears tuned into her. Personally, one point that stuck with me was about thinking in pictures. I thought everyone did that. On the ride home, I asked my sister how she thinks. She says that she can picture things, but that's not typically how she thinks. I'm still pondering all that...

I can't even begin to touch on what she covered. But I do encourage everyone to seek her out.

She made me feel better about myself. And, most importantly, my daughter.

Monday, November 8, 2010

More on the Autism Asperger's Conference

The speakers at the Conference were absolutely amazing. Carol Kranowitz had us move around, and reminded us that sensory-filled moments are often the most fondly remembered. Dr. Jed Baker followed, although I missed some of his talk, as I took time to meet other moms, dads and therapists outside the conference room.

There were so many amazing people I met. And I hope they will share their stories, as well. Some could relate to our journey. Others had experiences altogether different, and that's ok. We can all learn from each other. But we need to take the time to learn. To hear.

And that was one disappointment of the Conference.

The teachers, therapists, and other professionals who sat around us, talking throughout the presentations. And a few folks chatting on their cellphones, even.

Maybe they can talk and hear at the same time. I know I can't. And I can't hear the speaker's voice when others are filling the air with their own.