Planet Carter: Pop talks but Nana doesn't

High Functing Autism

People with high-functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome do not have the delayed language development that's typically found in people with autism. In addition, people with high-functioning autism have average or above average intelligence. However, they may show other behaviors and signs similar to what's seen with other types of autism: delay in motor skills lack of skill in interacting with others little understanding of the abstract uses of language, such as humor or give-and-take in a conversation obsessive interest in specific items or information strong reactions to textures, smells, sounds, sights, or other stimuli that others might not even notice, such as a flickering light Unlike people with other forms of autism, people with high-functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome want to be involved with others. They simply don't know how to go about it. They may not be able to understand others' emotions. They may not read facial expressions or body language well. As a result, they may be teased and often feel like social outcasts. The unwanted social isolation can lead to anxiety and depression.

Friday, January 29, 2010

Pop talks but Nana doesn't

Carter celebrated 100 days of school today. They had to dress up like a 100 year old man/woman. He wore a collard shirt, khakis, a tie and an old man hat. When he got out of the car this morning he told one of his teachers, he was Dr. Coppenger (my Pops friend who turned 100 a few months ago) and he needed 3 cakes . So cute.

When he got home today he sat in my lap and said "Pop talks but Nana doen't." He had tears in his eyes and a questioning look on his face. He asked why nana didn't talk anymore and if she had any hair. I told him Nana was in heaven now and she was happy. We talked and cried together, remembering times we shared with her. I told him that Nana loved him and me more than we'll ever know. She prayed for us on Tuesdays, she loved gummy bears. Scotcharoos, she loved Purple she adored Pop, she never tired of kids being around. I lived with her in college and remember she always needed a fire going, she could tell a story from her past with perfection and I never questioned her passion or love for God. She opened her home to more people in her lifetime than can be remembered. She cooked for people and her pool was never empty in the summer. Carter said he missed her and he wanted to go into the clouds to see her. All I could say was someday we will see her again because God loves us and God loves Nana