Hi all, I'm back I actually rejoined a while ago and got a note saying that there was some error so I didn't get any mail. Then suddenly today I got two digests which was a bit of a surprise!!. About Max and Autism (I am overcome by all the nice support). Max has been diagnosed with Mild Autism, I actually went and watched him at Montessori today and he just seemed like one of the other children. His academic abilities are Average to High Average but his social skills are lacking. He will get extra support when he goes to the local school next February and we will pay for private Speech therapy. It is interesting that a pre-school report in January 2003 found no developmental issues and he appeared to developing normally though his speech was late due to ear infections. I thought that he was just a slow learner plus he seemed to act more like his younger brother William which masked the signals. I don't' like the "Autism" label and we are still treating Max the same as we did but knowing the reasons for his younger behaviour makes things a lot easier. He is still a lovely boy and life is still the same at home. Allan and I did separate, we own a business and were experiencing lots of stress plus I was finding that running a family and having to emotionally support Allan far too overwhelming (Alpha male) so I spit-the-Dummy and decided to be alone. I then found out that I was menopausal which put things into perspective regarding my stress levels, we went to marriage counselling and are back together and things are much better. I am now Queen Bee around the house and it makes a happier home! I am going to the Gym and painting classes and having more free time. We are also investing in Property in the newly planned Fiji Hilton and plan to spend quite a bit of time there. Richard aged 19 is studying Engineering in Auckland and doing very well, Tane almost 17 is in 6th Form and has recently got his diving certificate so is thinking about Marine Studies. He has 'popped' his knee at Rugby and needs surgery to repair a lateral ligament. Susan 19 is still a loose cannon, still off the rails and has been smoking the drug 'P'. She has made some attempts to get help but has lapsed yet again. William has just turned 4, very cute and very bossy. My mum reckons he can talk the hind leg off a cast iron Donkey.
I am enjoying the China updates from Paula, and hope to catch up with you all. BTW, Sorry to Diana about your news. Love Carol --- You are currently subscribed to may99 as: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
