Happy Easter!

Check it out...

I finally had time to post my review of "What's eating your child?" by Kelly Dorfman.  If you have time, check it out at here.

Catching a break!

Four months ago, Nolen started receiving speech and sensory therapy.  His therapists came once a week and showed me what to do in order to teach him to talk.  I also learned a few tricks in desensitizing him. 

 

 As of yesterday, Nolen no long qualifies for speech therapy!! 

We have worked so hard to teach him how to talk and to provide the right learning environment for him.  Last July I had the feeling I needed to turn off the television for good.  This was definitely a prompting from my Heavenly Father.  We gave away all the toys with batteries and took down his train set. With a quiet environment, filled with the right learning opportunities, Nolen has learned to speak.  We still have a long way to go for his sensory issues, but I know we are on the right path.  We will truly miss his two therapist's that came each week to teach Nolen and I how to communicate.

 

Now on to another big issue, sleeping through the night...

Grandma X2

The last two weeks have been especially busy.  Between rehearsals, performances, kids, and a husband; I haven't had time to myself.  I am truly grateful to have two beautiful women in my life that are always willing to come and spend a week with me to help out while I get to do what I love: Sing.  I didn't really get a lot of pictures this time; however, I want them to know how much I appreciate their constant happy attitudes and their love for my family.  Thank you. I am eternally grateful for your sacrifice. 

Anniversary Love

Yours Forever, However long

In Whatever fashion

Time may pass

Unending is my passion...

For you

 

Love, Stephen

Post show let down

 

 

 

 

Trying to be Asian

Sometimes....

When your son is autistic, you walk outside and see this...

 

Celebrating 7 Years Together

I have been so blessed to be married to my best friend, Stephen.  We have made a wonderful life together.  With a lot of hard work and trust, we have been blessed with very little arguing and a lot of love.  Stephen is my soul mate.  I know the road may be hard; however, I have a true friend to help me through when it rains.  Thank you for being amazing, Stephen.  I love you.

Been pretty busy preparing for this...

Come see a beautiful, authentic Madama Butterfly at the National Hispanic Culteral Center put on by Opera Southwest.  Puccini's music is brilliant and the story line will keep you engaged.  Also, you can see me as a Geisha!  To get your tickets, go here.

 

Is that spring I see?

Even as I took these pictures, a bumble bee flew by my hand.

Autism Talking

 

I would first like to state that I dislike autism.  It has already worn out it's welcome here in my home and is welcome to leave and never return.  That being said, Nolen is doing great!  Despite his disability, Nolen is has really started to talk.  He is mimicking everything I say.  That means he has moved on from "labeling" and transitioned to putting thoughts and ideas together.  Love this little guy.

A little bit of Disney

Spring, please come soon!

We are ready for spring here at the Barnes household. Now all we need is some warmer weather.