SPD

As we are learning about SPD, aka sensory processing disorder, with Trey, we are discovering that he does nothing "by the book". He has many of the "symptoms", but his need for so much sensory intake makes it a daily struggle with him on meeting it. He seems to be okay at school (more in the afternoon, than morning). He is then, as we put it, "off the hook" at home. I was telling his OT yesterday about how, especially at bedtime, he is completely out of control...he is constantly struggling to pay attention to what is said to him, constantly in motion, and VERY easily frustrated. Something as simple as taking off his socks to get ready for bed, can have him kicking, crying, and lashing out. I struggle with bath time, haircuts, nail trims, putting pjs on, going to the bathroom, brushing teeth... just to name a few. He has so many OCD type things and is very inflexible about changes, which I hate to say as mom makes me not enjoy evenings until after he goes to bed. I hope that didn't make me sound like I don't love him. I love him soooo much, but I like him better during the day than at night. He did great at OT again yesterday....I told her how much better he did the last time, so she incorporated what he loves (spinning) and, again, he had a great night. If I could have/do whatever I wanted, I would build Trey a sensory gym room, where he could get all he needed everyday. It know it would make our lives somewhat smoother and his. I got some suggestions from my OT at school, but I need more. I'm going to have to go online to try and find some alternatives for him that will feed his sensory need, but not break the bank. Wish me luck.

Mixed Emotions

Last night, Alyssa and I had planned this "goodbye" dinner for our father-in-law, Dan/Poppy. It was fun, as always, but kind of sad. He is leaving Monday for Florida....for good. He is officially retired. He has been here for 2 1/2 years finishing up his retirement. It was only supposed to be for a year, but....well...things just don't always go as planned. My mother-in-law, Carol/Mimi, has been in Florida by herself (well, not totally as my other BIL and two SIL live there, in the same neighborhood) and I know she has hated the separation. I would have. I have lived 13 months without my husband and it was not something I would care to ever repeat! However, from a completely selfish point of view, we are really going to miss him. Lily has this bond with her Poppy....she loves to snuggle up to him and just be close. He doesn't have to say anything....she doesn't have to say anything...she just loves being next to him...or sitting in his lap! In Trey's mind, Florida isn't that far...but I know once Poppy leaves, he will be asking when he is coming back and why we can't go to Florida....right now. Meghan will miss all the teasing Poppy does. I think the biggest fear I have for our family is that now that he is moving back, we just won't see them that often anymore. Life can get busy...as we all know...and expensive...so visits will be few and far between. That is where the selfish part comes in. I am so excited for Carol, but really sad at the same time. Change is hard...and we will adjust....again...but it still sucks.