Mr. Braddock: Don’t you think that idea is a little half-baked?
Benjamin: Oh no, Dad, it’s completely baked.
The Graduate
Jonah graduated from the Anderson Center for Autism on June 23. It was a beautiful ceremony with 19 graduates, I think, and the school was very smart to keep things short and simple. The ceremony was held under a large tarp, and each graduate was provided with their own table for family and friends. As each name was announced, the graduates came up one by one in cap and gown to receive a certificate and have their picture taken. There were a few minor behaviors from a few of the graduates, but we all expect and accept it – after all, those graduates are at Anderson for a reason. It’s not like out in the world, where you might be shushed, judged, or barely tolerated.
After that, there was a yummy buffet spread. A lot of the graduates had a whole group of people to celebrate them, and I was afraid Jonah’s table would look empty with just me, but several people from his residence and school came over to sit with us.
Jonah made his usual request – go walk? – so we had a short stroll and Briana took that picture (above) of me and Boo holding hands, all smiles. She also created a celebration board complete with photos of Boo throughout his life, got him that amazing cake you see above, and decked him out in those awesome duds. Have I mentioned she goes above and beyond?
It was an excellent day of celebration, and I’m grateful for everyone who worked hard to make it so special. Now that Jonah has graduated, he’s staying at Anderson, of course, as there are still no adult placement options available. There is a graduate track for Jonah and others who have no placement yet, so he won’t be left without a day program.
In fact, August 16th was the 12th anniversary of Jonah’s first day at Anderson – the day he cried “home?” on the terrible car ride there in his plaintive little voice. The day of disbelief in this surreal thing we were doing. The day when Andy and I dropped off our only child and left our hearts behind with him.
We all survived it, though not unscathed. Actually I would say we were very scathed. Completely baked, just like in The Graduate. I wouldn’t go through those years again for all the money in the world. But I’ve said all this before.
Later this month I’ll get to see Jonah at the Dutchess County Fair – they’re bringing some of the kids on a special day for people with sensory issues, and I’m taking the day off to meet them there. I wonder what he’ll want to do. Surely the food and the animals will both be attractive to him, but I’m not sure about the rides. When he was little he’d go on the merry-go-round, but even then he eschewed the horses in favor of sitting on the boring bench that does nothing. I’ll keep you posted…you never know what Boo will choose. I’m sure a lot of walking will be in order, at any rate.
There’s more going on, as usual, and I’ll talk about that in my new blog – whose link is over to the right under My Favorites – The Other One.
Until next time, my peeps, be well and enjoy the end of summertime!
The Never Normal 