Off Topic, Kinda.....

[MapleLeafpoker 1,462]

Tear in my eye Steve. That was so great, thank you very much for sharing that.

 

I came on here late at night to rant about this guy I know and some things he said tonight (re:Paris killings) which made me just question humanity frankly, but that story made me just say fck it and put a smile on my face so I could sleep peacefully.

 

Just beautiful and ya, you should be incredibly proud of your son, thats an amazing act of a very sweet boy. So so amazing!

[serge 904]

Steve you and your wife should be proud, stuff like that reflects directly on you as parents. You have done an amazing job raising that boy and its shows with stories like that.

[FCP Bob 1,312]

and Rubio is supposed to the the moderate sane one. They talk about freedom but only want people they approve of to be free and that doesn't include an awful lot of people.

 

 

Moderate Marco? Rubio Wants to Undo Gay Marriage, End Obama’s LGBT Protections

[digitalmonkey 929]

Tear in my eye Steve. That was so great, thank you very much for sharing that.

 

I came on here late at night to rant about this guy I know and some things he said tonight (re:Paris killings) which made me just question humanity frankly, but that story made me just say fck it and put a smile on my face so I could sleep peacefully.

 

Just beautiful and ya, you should be incredibly proud of your son, thats an amazing act of a very sweet boy. So so amazing!

 

Do we still get to hear your rant?

[mrdannyg 274]

In most cases that might be a slam dunk. Except for the fact the democratic candidate is a liar and has done some very shady things with classified information.

 

I know some democrats would do anything to keep Hillary out of the White House.

 

I agree with a lot of the negatives on Clinton, but it is always good to keep things in perspective. She has lied plenty, in my opinion, but it seems like her lies have been to protect classified information, protect friends, help her politically and maybe hide information that would be better off not being public. Those aren't good things. But that is different than lying to encourage people to hate or be afraid of others by lying about seeing them do things they didn't, pretending there are conspiracies you know nothing about or completely making up statistics and studies.

 

It is unfortunate that politics today often comes down to comparing liars.

 

 

I honestly believe there is a 0% chance Trump becomes president, but him even being a front runner for the republican candidacy is a really bad look for America. The great Irony is the trump supporters, who are generally going to be very far right leaning, could inadvertently end up helping Clinton or another democrat candidate to become POTUS, which is really pleasing to think about.

 

A few months ago, every stathead and analyst said he had no chance of making the Repub nomination because he only had 10% of votes and it was just the crazies, and others would consolidate against him.

 

She has experience which I personally look for. First Lady for 8 years, NY senator, Sec of State. She's always been a leader and everything I've read is that she's a great mediator which I think could possibly help with making at least some headway in creating bipartisan action in congress. A big plus for me over Trump is foreign relations. As a first lady and Sec Of State she has built relationships with a lot of leaders in the world and that is much needed. Leaders have not shown much in the way of respect or desire to deal with the likes of Trump and he's pretty much said they could all eff off. I'm not comfortable with that. As the alleged "great nation" we need good relationships in the world and she brings that to the table. Another big issue for me personally is that as the working middle class her policies will benefit my family where as Trumps will send us into poverty or close to it because we are not in the 1%. That's my favorite because poor southern folks always vote Republican. They keep letting the R party shove them lower and lower. And the reason is is because they think one day they'll become the 1%. Oops.

 

But yeah that's why I can deal with Hil-Dog over Trump. I mean again, Trump has been called out numerous times for saying he'll do things that as President, he'll have no power to do. It's hilarious and a bit scary.

 

We agree or disagree on plenty, but kudos for taking the time to say something good about someone than most of us just feel is better than the alternative. It's important.

 

I forgot who it was but a group that has been correct in predicting the president for a number of years has predicted Bernie Sanders will be the next president.

 

Far be it for me to pretend my opinion means shit against people who actually know what they're talking about, but I feel like even Trump could actually beat Sanders if Sanders won. Just too many older people who are so afraid of change and socialism and commies to ever vote for Sanders, and you know anyone even vaguely on the fence Republican would come out against him as hard as anyone vaguely left would come out hard against Trump.

 

Some lighthearted talk here plus this will make sure that I can read this again sometime as it's a good story, at least for me. If it wasnt for posting all those apartment stories I would forget almost all of them.

 

So Jin is in Junior K now and he has a pretty good class. Its 10 kids and 3 teachers. Last year the first couple months were hell. He hated going. Would cry, kick, scream as they dragged him to the classroom from my car. I hated it. Felt horrible. Every kid goes through it I am sure but it was hard for him as he has been "taken away" a few times not to go back home so I assume it was really hard for him on top of the regular going to school anxiety. After a while he loved it. His teachers last year loved him and he got good remarks and he was easily approved to come back this year. He couldn't wait for school to start which is exactly what a parent wants to hear I think. At least I did.

 

5 of the kids he had in PreK last year so that helped and 5 new kids. One of the kids, Rubio, is from China and he still doesn't speak english. He's a sweet kid but early on Jin would always say he was weird and he didn't like him. He said he never talked and just sat there. I reminded him on car rides back to home that it's probably hard for him and you should try and be nice. I told him how shy he was and now he has all these great friends. He always just shrugged it off. When I would ask everyday how his friends were he would just talk about the usual kids and never say anything about Rubio. Sometimes I would ask him and he would say that Rubio still doesn't talk.

 

A month back we had Parent Teacher conference and they mentioned wha great friends Rubio and Jin were. They told us how Rubio couldn't speak English yet (this was when we first heard about that, I always assumed he was super shy) and that Jin always invites him to the groups and tries to pay with him.That day at recess he grabbed Rubio by the hand and dragged him to the sandbox and told him they were going to dig a hole. And so Jin and Rubio dug a huge deep hole. They said Jin did a lot of talking and that Rubio just sat there with him digging the hole with a smile. That was great to hear. We had no clue. And he still doesn't say much.

 

Today at drop off he ran off to go inside and his teacher said that Rubio and Jin are becoming great friends. They day before they went to the Science Museum for a scavenger hunt and Jin grabbed Rubios hand and led him around showing him everything. Rubio still doesn't talk (except in Spanish class lol) but that she said they both had big smiles on their faces the whole time.

 

It's so great to hear that. He doesn't ever talk about it but he listened and is trying to help Rubio out. I'm pretty proud of the kid. I just thought it was a nice story and felt like posting it as a break from all this political mumbo jumbo

 

Clap clap clap. That really does reflect on you as parents. And as the parent of a kid who is still somewhat non-verbal, I can tell you what he absolutely loves when other kids do is to talk for him. Maybe suggest to Jin that Rubio wants to say things but doesn't know how, and it isn't rude for Jin to just try and say it for him. Even if he is wrong, Rubio will appreciate him trying!

 

On that note, I don't think I've mentioned it here before, but thought I'd share that we are *almost* officially at the stage where Owen will be diagnosed as having autism. Just waiting on the last appointment, but it is all but confirmed, and of course, something we have suspected for quite a long time. I know there are other kids of forum members with the same or similar diagnosis, so just wanted to share. Frankly, we are excited in a way, as it would explain so much about his development and will open up plenty of opportunities for all of us (though we are already getting plenty of help from the excellent therapy options available here).

[MapleLeafpoker 1,462]

Danny....

Thats a great attitude to have, and you will be amazed at the progress Owen can make with that kind of attitude and persistence on your part.

On Feb 4, 2003, the diagnosis I got was that my son would probably never talk. Last night he was the M.C. for his schools holiday/christmas concert. I'm sure there will be some very tough times ahead for you, but keep fighting for your sons best potential and keep up that great attitude. You are already doing way better than I ever did at that stage.

 

And really glad to hear there are good therapy options, that was definitely a key for us and many of my friends' kids who are on the spectrum.

I'm available if you ever need anything.

[Babying 613]

MDG which I had answers to what can help but I don't. I know when Otto got assessed he was around 10 or 11 but we always suspect something. Would I change how he is. Not a chance.

 

I know that in Otto early years he would never ever like live sporting events and crowds. Anywhere there is loud noise. I however never did avoid these events and took any chance I had (he went to a leafs and raptors game at least once a year). That help in his development where he is no longer "scared" of going to sporting events. We have even gone to 2 NFL games and we had an absolute blast.

 

Now there will be lots of valleys to occur. That is for sure especially with school. My wife hated to hear how Otto was doing in school plus he got bullied at school. During a houseleague soccer game, Otto got kicked out of the game by the ref because he kept pushing another kid. Yes it was the bully. Afterwards the bullying stopped at school.

 

 

I took Otto everywhere with me such as fishing, my softball/hockey games etc. I also enrolled Otto into every sports he could play even though he sucked. My favorite memory is when he got a hat trick in houseleague hockey when he was 8 or the grand slam to win a baseball game. Actually I guess he did not suck afterwards because I practice with him. Otto is even getting into my Roty leagues since he comes with me (since I know most of guys know who he is here)

 

One other thing was the doctor who first assessed Otto stated to my wife and I that the occurrence of autism in a child is higher on the 2nd and 3rd child is higher. Well they are incorrect unless you consider Divas as a disability. My 2 girls are well I guess you can say Daddy's girls.

 

 

So keep your head up high MDG and if you have any questions you can always hit me up. Also don't forget to apply for the disability tax credit

[serge 904]

All the best to Owen and your family. Arp and Wayne are great sources here. I have met both their sons and they are both normal and wonderful kids.

 

 

[Babying 613]

All the best to Owen and your family. Arp and Wayne are great sources here. I have met both their sons and they are both normal and wonderful kids.

 

Actually Otto is not. He thinks you are good at roty hockey.

[serge 904]

 

 

Actually Otto is not. He thinks you are good at roty hockey.

 

Well the boy is smart. Have you looked who is first place in the AHL? And I am actually dominating Darrells pool with a wider margin for first.

 

Maybe I'll hire Otto!!

[FCP Bob 1,312]

Josh Barro ‏@jbarro 28m28 minutes ago

The problem with the idea that an armed society will make us safer is that many, many people are idiots. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/12/us/woman-who-shot-at-home-depot-shoplifters-vows-to-never-help-anyone-again.html?_r=1&mtrref=undefined …

[iBeaver 409]

Sadly have never met Arps kid but I've met Otto a few times and he's always been nice and polite. I find that to not be the norm much these days so good for him

[Babying 613]

Sadly have never met Arps kid but I've met Otto a few times and he's always been nice and polite. I find that to not be the norm much these days so good for him

 

thanks Steve

[serge 904]

Perspective:

 

Friends in Toronto are raving about the mild December weather, people are enjoying "summerlike" sun and warmth..

 

Friends here are freezing and complaining that the winter has come and cant wait till its over..

 

Temperature in Toronto 52

 

Temperature in Fresno 55

[serge 904]

Back on the Trump thing as its still fascinating ...

 

I think Trump had an amazing opportunity to win this election by a landslide..Well at least the Republican nomination...If he just watched what he said, if he was more politically correct...But the man just has no filter..Which is going to be his downfall...Or just his plan all along...

 

For example...Trump says he wants to ban all Muslims, which is extremely racist even though he still has support on his comments..

 

All he had to do was to say, until we have further information and solve the ISIS problem , I propose we dont allow anyone in from Syria and Iraq..Or to a lesser extent have more scrutiny and harder access..

 

No one talks about how in several Arab nations , Israelis are banned to enter....Different countries have different visas and rules for entry..

 

I am now convinced that Trump doesnt want to be President...Its all a publicity thing.

[serge 904]

One of our close friends brother in law was one of the Syrian refugees off the plane last night..Got to meet the PM and all that media frenzy yesterday. Good percentage of the refugees are Armenian.

 

Apparently they were given clothes, and have automatic Landed Immigrant status, with a Social Security number and OHIP set up right away..

 

Thats great for them, but we had to struggle for years to get that status..I was also a refugee, and escaped Turkey when we were threatened for our lives..

 

I am not a Trudeau fan per se, but I believe this is a good thing ..

 

Edit..

 

In Canada its a Social Insurance Number.

 

THE social security is what I am trying to obtain here.

[FCP Bob 1,312]

One of our close friends brother in law was one of the Syrian refugees off the plane last night..Got to meet the PM and all that media frenzy yesterday. Good percentage of the refugees are Armenian.

 

Apparently they were given clothes, and have automatic Landed Immigrant status, with a Social Security number and OHIP set up right away..

 

Thats great for them, but we had to struggle for years to get that status..I was also a refugee, and escaped Turkey when we were threatened for our lives..

 

I am not a Trudeau fan per se, but I believe this is a good thing ..

 

Edit..

 

In Canada its a Social Insurance Number.

 

THE social security is what I am trying to obtain here.

 

Did you guys get all pre screened etc outside of Canada or did you come to Canada and claim refugee status when you got here ?

 

Anybody who is issued a Permanent Resident Visa when they are outside Canada gets a SIN number and PR status as soon as they land in Canada just like the Syrian refugees.

[serge 904]

Did you guys get all pre screened etc outside of Canada or did you come to Canada and claim refugee status when you got here ?

 

Anybody who is issued a Permanent Resident Visa when they are outside Canada gets a SIN number and PR status as soon as they land in Canada just like the Syrian refugees.

 

We had to get out of the country quick..We left the country within 2 weeks after the Turks threatened our lives...Came in as Visitors and then applied for refugee status..

 

It took my wife I think 3 years to get her PR card , and she was legally married to me and coming from Murica..

[serge 904]

Come join us in Vegas.

 

Saturday Feb 6. J lo at planet Hollywood. Followed by Super bowl the next day

[mrdannyg 274]

Back on the Trump thing as its still fascinating ...

 

I think Trump had an amazing opportunity to win this election by a landslide..Well at least the Republican nomination...If he just watched what he said, if he was more politically correct...But the man just has no filter..Which is going to be his downfall...Or just his plan all along...

 

For example...Trump says he wants to ban all Muslims, which is extremely racist even though he still has support on his comments..

 

All he had to do was to say, until we have further information and solve the ISIS problem , I propose we dont allow anyone in from Syria and Iraq..Or to a lesser extent have more scrutiny and harder access..

 

No one talks about how in several Arab nations , Israelis are banned to enter....Different countries have different visas and rules for entry..

 

I am now convinced that Trump doesnt want to be President...Its all a publicity thing.

 

Is this going to be one of those things where you say something, 10 people give detailed contradicting information, then you wait a few days and say the same thing again?

 

His entire campaign has been to build a wall against Mexicans (which makes no sense and would be very harmful to Americans) and to engender fear and hate for Muslims. Him repeatedly saying things like "we know they're up to something" is a long way from suggesting increased scrutiny for people from high-risk areas (which is already something that takes place, though it is open to argument whether that is "enough" I suppose). One is a reasonable position to consider active security risks - the other is a fear-based campaign appealing to the most paranoid and ignorant people, with intended far-reaching consequences on Muslim (or Sikh or anyone with dark skin) citizens, non-Americans and huge other groups of innocents.

 

I think if Trump doesn't say horrible things and ridiculous lies to whip up people, he doesn't have nearly the support that he does. It's not like if you just cut out all the hateful rhetoric, he'd be able to tack on a bunch of more moderate voters and keep all the crazies too.

 

I know we all love the thought of a non-politician actually making a difference, but the reality is that the President doesn't have all that much power, and the rest of it will still be in the hands of politicians. And when you are talking about non-politicians, you are generally talking about people very much on the fringe, and there's a reason they are there. After all, why are so many people enamoured with a "non-politician" like Trump as opposed to someone like Fiorina.

[mrdannyg 274]

Danny....

Thats a great attitude to have, and you will be amazed at the progress Owen can make with that kind of attitude and persistence on your part.

On Feb 4, 2003, the diagnosis I got was that my son would probably never talk. Last night he was the M.C. for his schools holiday/christmas concert. I'm sure there will be some very tough times ahead for you, but keep fighting for your sons best potential and keep up that great attitude. You are already doing way better than I ever did at that stage.

 

And really glad to hear there are good therapy options, that was definitely a key for us and many of my friends' kids who are on the spectrum.

I'm available if you ever need anything.

MDG which I had answers to what can help but I don't. I know when Otto got assessed he was around 10 or 11 but we always suspect something. Would I change how he is. Not a chance.

 

I know that in Otto early years he would never ever like live sporting events and crowds. Anywhere there is loud noise. I however never did avoid these events and took any chance I had (he went to a leafs and raptors game at least once a year). That help in his development where he is no longer "scared" of going to sporting events. We have even gone to 2 NFL games and we had an absolute blast.

 

Now there will be lots of valleys to occur. That is for sure especially with school. My wife hated to hear how Otto was doing in school plus he got bullied at school. During a houseleague soccer game, Otto got kicked out of the game by the ref because he kept pushing another kid. Yes it was the bully. Afterwards the bullying stopped at school.

 

 

I took Otto everywhere with me such as fishing, my softball/hockey games etc. I also enrolled Otto into every sports he could play even though he sucked. My favorite memory is when he got a hat trick in houseleague hockey when he was 8 or the grand slam to win a baseball game. Actually I guess he did not suck afterwards because I practice with him. Otto is even getting into my Roty leagues since he comes with me (since I know most of guys know who he is here)

 

One other thing was the doctor who first assessed Otto stated to my wife and I that the occurrence of autism in a child is higher on the 2nd and 3rd child is higher. Well they are incorrect unless you consider Divas as a disability. My 2 girls are well I guess you can say Daddy's girls.

 

 

So keep your head up high MDG and if you have any questions you can always hit me up. Also don't forget to apply for the disability tax credit

All the best to Owen and your family. Arp and Wayne are great sources here. I have met both their sons and they are both normal and wonderful kids.

 

Thanks guys - we do have some good resources here. Owen is a hilarious, awesome kid and will likely be considered high-functioning with reasonable social skills, so my anxiety about everything is very likely a normal thing for any other parent of a kid with special needs, or really, any other parent in general!

 

We're less than 2 years away from starting school (he'll be on the late side) and starting to look at different types of part-time pre-school for both kids, just to get them more social interaction with kids their age, which is all pretty terrifying. I have no idea how parents leave kids who are only 1 (or younger) and not talking at daycares or pre-schools, even though every parent does it! For almost all stupid reasons, it's scary!

[digitalmonkey 929]

If this forum doesn't pick up I'm going to have to post more "conspiracies".

[FCP Bob 1,312]

Trump's Medical Report Is More Insane Than His Campaign, Somehow

 

 

 

[digitalmonkey 929]

Because he also performed medical examinations on all previous presidents?

[FCP Bob 1,312]

I love that Trump and his Doctor have the same hair stylist