Raising the Lawson Boys

As you may have read in my previous post, this is my eldest son, James. He is 5 years old now, and was diagnosed as Autistic when he was 3.5 years old. We learn from him, from both of our boys, every day. I realise most people are well meaning when they say things to parents of autistic kids, but some things often leave them hurt. I read loads of blogs and belong to just about every Facebook group available when it comes to Autism and ADHD - as a means of hearing from Autistic adults, hearing from other parents and their difficulties, and learning as we go along. Hearing from parents in a similar situation as yourself helps to know that you're not alone. And its OK to have good days and bad days alike. Through this I have learned the following: DON'T tell them - "God wouldn't give this to you to handle if he thought you couldn't handle it". Why? Because even for those that are religious (never assume) there are days that you feel you can't handle it. I...

My boys were born in 2012 and 2013. Their names are James and Evan and this is their story. For about 5/6 years Stephen and I struggled to conceive. In 2010 we fell pregnant - but sadly two months later on Stephens birthday, I had a miscarriage.  We were both pretty devastated, but like all things in life, you have to pick yourself up and carry on with life, Life changed for us. We moved 250km away from where we were staying, Stephen got a new job and then we found out we were pregnant again. Of course this time I was a nervous wreck! I had "morning sickness" aka "all-day-sickness" for 8 months of my pregnancy. James' estimated due date came and went - and almost a week later, James Peter Lawson made his appearance. The labour was, er, fun. Around 22 hours - they had to break my water - and with pen in hand ready to sign the emergency Cesarean papers - James kinda just came out by himself - with umbilical ...