Last night we went to family night at the kids school. It was okay. The kids had fun and that’s all that really matters.
These things are always crowed, loud and in the middle of the goddamn school week. I get why they do that but it also means that the kids get all worked up, struggle to go to sleep and have a hard time going to school the next day.
Anyway, this was a science night and they did all kinds of cool little experiments. The boys loved it. Some of the experiments totally blew Gavin’s mind. It was like magic to him, which is sorta sad for me but at the same time, I’m happy that he enjoyed himself.
Lizze came with us and that was not easy for her. I haven’t really talked about this much but she’s told me I could, so I’ll explain.
Lizze suffers from many things but what’s relevant for this post is her paralyzing social anxiety. She’s not quite agoraphobic because she does leave the house but she really, really struggles when it comes to people she doesn’t know or is not too familar with.
She does pretty well while she’s out but it takes all she has and then she usually gets sick afterwards. We refer to that as an emotional hangover.
It’s been a rough day for her so far and I wish she had an easier time with life. ☹️
These are all things she’s getting help for but they aren’t easily overcome. It makes life more challenging but we do our best. I don’t know if it’s best for the kids to know about this or not. We haven’t really spoken to them about it. We always just say Mommy’s not feeling good and frankly, that’s the truth.
Anyway, today has just been an emotionally heavy day. The kids seem to be doing alright and that has to be my main focus, at least while they’re home.
Why was it sad for you about Gavin? I think i have seen you mention he has the mentality of a 6 year old, which science experiments would be magic for most of them.
I don’t want to speak for Rob, but I can imagine that while it’s great to see your son simply enjoying himself, sometimes these situations can bring about feelings of sadness, as they serve as a reminder of how great Gavin’s challenges are.
Rob, a question: why the reluctance to discuss your wife’s circumstances on some level with the boys? Would it be so terrible for them to know that everyone struggles with something – and even mommy has struggles with social situations. I would think they probably already know to some extent…
Sorry your wife is struggling.
You’re exactly right. It’s just a reminder of where he is in life. He’s very gullible and would likely get into the car with a stranger if asked nicely. It’s scary and sad.
As for Lizze, it’s just her story to tell and she used to on her blog. She doesn’t wrote much anymore and so I feel like I need to, at least to some extend because it’s a big piece of the puzzle that helps to provide perspective and context.
Oh… I totally misread your question. My answer though is still important so I’ll leave it. We do talk to the boys about this stuff but they are worriers and we try to find a balance.
That makes sense
I think I get it. With my fibromyalgia I don’t get out as much and find many situations fatiguing. I can be friendly and in fact, often embarrass Henry by talking with strangers. But having to wear the mask of wellness is also hard, if I’m having a worse day. I imagine with Lizze’s migraine on top of everything else it makes it unbearable. ((HUGS)) to her and you and the kids!
I know exactly what are talking about. I have 2 sons with autism. One of my sons is now in a reside… https://t.co/Ast3i9QOwP