In our “autism” world- I still have to watch Phoebe while she takes a bath. I can pretend she is independent, and will wash the soap out…however, it NEVER happens. I finally gave up. She can go to the tub for a relaxing bath- but to get clean I have to supervise. She says the same exact things she said when she was 4….”can I open my eyes with this shampoo mom?”, and “I have to wash my butt.” All very matter of fact questions- that she has learn to ask through her scripted life. Just like the same questions she asks when I get home (and has since she could talk)…”what are we doing tonight, and I don’t like _____(fill in the blank) for dinner, I just want a sandwich.” I have learned to ignore most of it- and I can’t say I even hear it anymore.

One of my favorite stories about Phoebe is when we were on a plane to Yale University’s Autism Clinic 2 summers ago. I let the airline know that there was a special needs child aboard, and that she could get very upset. When they announced it…it went something like this…”good afternoon, passengers…we’d like to inform you that there is a child with special needs aboard, and please be sensitive to her and her needs.” Phoebe looked at me, and around her and said…”WHERE?” I laughed out loud and said…”I have no idea.”
I guess it’s only her mom that really knows she has special needs- to her, she’s just Phoebe.

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