Typical Abby

The past couple of days have been extremely emotional and difficult.  Thursday there was a major shift in Abby’s schedule at school.  Then kaboom…her world is totally upside down which often translates into OUR world turning upside down. 

I’m not often overly open with what goes on in our family, and how much autism affects our life.  Its not really that I’m embarrassed, rather I know it’s difficult for people to know what to say when something is shared.  I hate being in that position, so I don’t want others to be in that position either.  All that said, I am going to give you a glimpse into my last couple of days. 

On Friday morning, I knew I was up for a challenge.  Every so often Abby decides that she’s not going to wear clothing.  Yes, absolutely nothing.  She has a lot of sensory issues, which often includes clothing and things that touch her skin. When we finally got her dressed, I thought, wrongfully so, that she would then be fine.  As we were getting her ready for school, she refused socks, and then any winter clothing.  That’s not going to fly when there is 2.5 feet of snow outside! 

After many tears, from both her and I, I finally gave in.  Only now, not only was she not interested in outerwear, she no longer wanted her clothing on.  Over the years of dealing with our children, I know when I need to pick my battles.  That morning, for some reason, that knowledge alluded me for a long while.  I battled with her for over an hour, trying to reason with her to get her clothing on…then I had a brainwave…she doesn’t really have to have clothing on…wait, yes she did…she’s not toilet trained yet (a very common trait in children with autism) and often times believes herself to be picasso, ugh.  So, that moment I decided…fine…if she doesn’t want clothing, then we’re going to start toilet training.  If she’s not at school, she at least needs to work.

So it’s been almost 2 days now.  With only 1 accident per day.  I’m very proud of her.  I’m also totally shocked.  Those of you who know me well, know that I usually have a plan.  I plan for everything.  Toilet training Abby, so close to Christmas, wasn’t one of them.  All the company, all the shifts in routine, it just doesn’t work!  I never thought she’d be successful (horrible mom, I know!)  Well, Abby is proving me wrong.  I’m thankful for it too. 

Today she’s decided clothing is alright, and I think she likes the underwear more than the diaper.  But it’s still a bit of a challenge.  But then, m0st things in life are a challenge and the most rewarding.   So there’s a look into my days with Abby.  Please pray that Monday morning she actually chooses to wear clothing.  Pray also for her continued success.