My Deaf Family Reality Show

Today I saw the pilot "My Deaf Family" on Youtube. This is a really excellent program that I recommend that you watch and get behind. I can't believe that the networks can not see the value (and the commercial benefit) of supporting and broadcasting a show of this quality.

I highly recommend that you watch it!!

WAAD March 1st April - Autism Victoria

Autism Victoria is calling on the community to get behind World Autism Awareness Day on Thursday April 1st 2010 and they have organised a march from the Autism Victoria offices to the State Library. Once there, they will release 1000 multicoloured balloons into the sky to visually respect and represent the individuality of those on the Autism Spectrum. The balloons will also represent the number of Early Intervention hours the 1000 hours campaign is fighting for.

Where? Autism Victoria – 24 Drummond St, Carlton

When? 12pm Thursday 1st April

Motogp - Mancation for Colin Edwards and Ben Spies

This just cracks me up!!

ScrapArtist - 30% off March Madness Sale

If you are a Digi-Scrapbooker and like a bargain ... head on over to Scrapartist for their March Madness Sale. They have 30% off the whole store. Some of my favourite artists including Biograffiti, Dianne Rigdon Design & HGD by Laurie Ann have their stores at Scrapartist. Definitely worth a look.

Vista Print

I have found an idea that I think is worth exploring Mummy cards. I know it sounds alittle crazy at first but think about it. Coming from the business world I am used to when you meet someone that as part of the introductory process is to share business cards. A great custom of easily and quickly sharing details without wasting alot of time and effort. Now that I spend more time in the home and the people that I meet are of a more personal than professional manner I am finding that I am missing this custom. Sharing details usually involves scrambling in my bag for a pen and some paper or getting them to read out the details to me as I enter it directly into my phone.

I am thinking that I am going to get some made ... but where. The great thing is that there are lots of options. If you want the simplest you can go to a specialty Mummy Card Maker like Mummy cards (example left is from Mummy card) or if you are willing to be alittle creative you can use a service like VisaPrint.

VisaPrint offer very cmpetitive rates for the creation of business cards or mummy cards. From Free Business cards (1-sided based on provided templates) where you only pay for the postage to fully customisable 2-sided colour Business cards. They are definitely worth a look if you don't want to pay the premium of a customized Mummy card service

Top 10 Reasons to use your Mommy Cards:

1. New moms you meet and want play dates with
2. Contact info for Babysitter
3. Neighbours
4. Existing friends (the cards are just too cute not to share)
5. Put in holiday cards, birthday cards, thank you cards and more
6. When dropping off your child at someone’s house for a play date or birthday party
7. If your child is lost you can give out the card with their picture on it to help find them
8. Keep one in your suitcase or diaper bag in case it gets lost
9. Will make grandparents smile
10. Just for fun!

JOKE - Children s Science Exam

A friend of mine sent this to me and it just gave me a a good laugh. If anyone knows the origins please let me know as I would like to pay full dews. I hope you enjoy ...

If you need a good laugh, try reading through these children's science exam answers....

Q: Name the four seasons.
A: Salt, pepper, mustard and vinegar.

Q: Explain one of the processes by which water can be made safe to drink.
A: Flirtation makes water safe to drink because it removes large pollutants like grit, sand, dead sheep and canoeists.

Q: How is dew formed?
A: The sun shines down on the leaves and makes them perspire.

Q: How can you delay milk turning sour? (Brilliant, love this!)
A: Keep it in the cow.

Q: What causes the tides in the oceans?
A: The tides are a fight between the Earth and the Moon. All water tends to flow towards the moon, because there is no water on the moon, and nature hates a vacuum. I forget where the sun joins in this fight.

Q: What are steroids?
A: Things for keeping carpets still on the stairs.

Q: What happens to your body as you age?
A: When you get old, so do your bowels and you get intercontinental.

Q: What happens to a boy when he reaches puberty?
A: He says good-bye to his boyhood and looks forward to his adultery. (This kid gets an A+ for this answer!)

Q: How are the main parts of the body categorized? (i.e. abdomen)
A: The body is consisted into three parts -- the brainium, the borax and the abdominal cavity. The brainium contains the brain; the borax contains the heart and lungs, and the abdominal cavity contains the five bowels A, E, I, O, and U.

Q: What is the fibula?
A: A small lie.

Q: What does 'varicose' mean? (I do love this one...)
A: Nearby.

Q: Give the meaning of the term !Caesarian Section".
A: The Caesarian Section is a district in Rome.

Drawtism

Drawtism is the first National Awareness and Fundraising campaign for autism in Australia, bringing together Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) in NSW, Autism Association of WA, and Autism SA. Funds raised will go to increasing the scope and calibre of services of our collective programs.

All you have to do is organise a game of Pictionary and get the people that who play to donate a bit of money towards a good cause. Pictionary is the game of choice because it help shows the communication struggles people with autism face.

For more details on how you can host your own party or find one near you go to http://www.drawtism.com.au

Stroller Skis

Have you ever had a crazy idea and then searched the net to see it if exists just for a laugh? Well ... yes that is exactly what I did when I came across Stroller Skis.

I was thinking about our family holiday this year to the snow and I was thinking about the difficulty I had last year without my stroller. Now with 2 children I thought it would be great if I could have a stroller when on the snow. Having a toddler that could and would want to walk but also a baby I thought it would be great if I had my stroller. (Not for skiing ... just for walking between the lodge, skitube and other buildings) So for a laugh I looked up skis for strollers.

I was shocked when I found that this product was sold on Amazon (while currently not in stock and not known when to be back in stock)

I guess there are communities that spend many months with snow so it makes sense that they have something to help with strollers or just getting around in general outside with small children. I guess it just shows that sometimes even he craziest ideas ... can be to some people be both of business opportunity and useful tool.

Light It Up Blue - Shine a Light on Autism

On the night of April 1, prominent buildings across North America and the world including the Empire State Building in New York City will be lit up blue to raise awareness for autism and to commemorate World Autism Awareness Day on Friday, April 2.

The aim is to light the world blue, too – city by city, town by town, webpage and blog by webpage and blog – by taking action to raise awareness about autism in our communities.

US Buildings include

• Nevada State Capitol, Carson City, NV
  
• Governor's Mansion, Carson City, NV
  
• Merchandise Mart, Chicago, IL
  
• Willis Tower, Chicago, IL
  
• One South Dearborn, Chicago, IL
  
• Wrigley Building, Chicago, IL
  
• Fountain Square, Cincinnati, OH
  
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland, OH
  
• Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
  
• Denver City & County Building, Denver, CO
  
• Pennsylvania Capitol Building, Harrisburg, PA
  
• Montana Capitol Building, Helena, MT
  
• JP Morgan Chase Tower, Houston, TX
  
• Kansas City Downtown Marriott Hotel, Kansas City, MO
  
• Los Angeles Airport (LAX) Pylons, Los Angeles, CA
  
• L'Etoile Restaurant, Madison, WI
  
• Miami Tower, Miami, FL
  
• Empire State Building, New York, NY
  
• Madison Square Garden Marquee, New York, NY
  
• New York Stock Exchange, New York, NY
  
• Radio City Music Hall Outdoor Façade, New York, NY
  
• FUSE Networks, New York, NY
  
• John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport Air Traffic Control Tower, New York, NY
  
• Brooklyn Borough Hall, New York, NY
  
• Barclays Capital, New York, NY
  
• The Oak Room at the Plaza Hotel, New York, NY
  
• Boqueria Restaurant, New York, NY
  
• Corton Restaurant, New York, NY
  
• Mas(farmhouse) Restaurant, New York, NY
  
• Abe & Arthur's Restaurant, New York, NY
  
• Copeland Restaurant, Morristown, NJ
  
• UpRoot Restaurant, Warren, NJ
  
• Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Philadelphia, PA
  
• Secretary of State Howlett Building, Springfield, IL
  
• Soldiers' Memorial Military Museum, St. Louis, MO
  
• The Civil Courts Building, St. Louis, MO
  
• College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA
  
• Clematis Street Fountain, West Palm Beach, FL

International Buildings include

• The Bell Tower, Perth, Australia
  
• Bangabandhu Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
  
• CN Tower, Toronto, Canada
  
• Nicosia Town Hall, Nicosia, Cyprus
  
• Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington, New Zealand
  
• Kingdom Tower Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
  
• The Galle Face Hotel, Colombo, Sri Lanka
  
• Bermuda's City Hall, Hamilton, Bermuda
  
• Shaheed Hussain Adam Building, Maldives

What can you do to help "Light It Up Blue"

• Post on your blog about how you are “lighting it up blue” to raise autism awareness.
• Add the Light It Up Blue logo to your e-mail signature … and type your e-mails in blue!
• Wear your Autism Speaks puzzle piece pin every day throughout the month of April, and tell people about autism if they ask about it.
• Change your Facebook profile picture to the Light It Up Blue logo and tag at least 10 of your friends.
• On April 2 wear blue clothing and ask your co-workers, schools and friends to wear blue too. Take pictures and add them to the "Light It Up Blue" Flickr gallery.
• Bake puzzle piece shaped cookies and frost them with blue icing, then bring them to your school, work to raise autism awareness.

http://www.lightitupblue.org/

Hackers Attack ASPECT and other Autism website

I knew that the ASPECT website had been down for almost a week ... but I thought that it was because they might be doing something for Autism Month. Unfortunately this was not the case.

I was told and have now found an article to support this that the website was hacked (Hack in the box). I am surpised that this has not been picked up by mainstream media.

I don't know if this is true ... but if it is ... that is horrible.

Article from Hack in a box - Hackers crash Aussie charity websites - Monday, March 22, 2010 - 01:19 AM

_____

The internet services of two Australian autism support organisations have been crashed by computer hackers and a third may also have fallen victim, raising fears of a targeted attack to coincide with autism month.

Austism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT), the country's autism service provider, is losing hundreds of dollars in online donations each day after its website was hit by hackers early on Sunday.

The hackers closed web forums, a group email service and registration pages for events. The codeword-restricted intranet site for the autism training organisation Positive Partnerships was also hit. Austism Victoria's intranet service also went down.


_________

Update I have found confirmation on the ASPECT Temporary website

http://autismmonth.wordpress.com/website-update/

________

On Sunday 14 March the Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) website was hacked by someone in the United States impacting the text content only on the website. The website company has been working to rebuild the site with the assistance of data recovery professionals.

We hope to have the website up again as soon as possible. At this stage we do not have a definite timeframe, but remain hopeful that we can fully recover the site in the coming days.

Shifting Focus: 8 Facts About Autism the Media Is Not Covering

This is a great article I read from the Huffington Post that I thought was worth sharing. Please check out the orginal at Shifting Focus: 8 Facts About Autism the Media Is Not Covering by Holly Robinson Peete

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/holly-robinson-peete/shifting-focus-8-facts-ab_b_501183.html

____________

Over the years many parents have reached out to me for emotional support after their child was diagnosed with autism. I particularly remember getting Jenny McCarthy's phone call shortly after her son's diagnosis. Like most moms and dads, she needed to connect with somebody who knew first hand the swift gut-kick of this difficult diagnosis, somebody who had been in the trenches for 7 years already.

We cried. We cussed. We even managed to laugh. We spoke for eight hours. She was naturally frustrated with the lack of answers about autism. I was there for her as I'd be for any parent, and I told her she was blessed to get such an early diagnosis. Her passion was palpable and I could tell she was going to grab autism by the horns, making it her mission and focus. I knew she'd help spread autism awareness like nobody else could and the media would pay attention. Since that phone call, she has created a very successful platform with her powerful opinions, blogs and books on vaccine safety, diet and recovering her son among other things. It has been a courageous, controversial and fearless ride. Miss Jenny is not scared to get in the ring with the big boys!

Though I share many of same concerns, I feel compelled to shed light on the fact that families affected by autism are struggling on multiple levels. We need a shift of focus to share the spotlight with other often overshadowed issues that profoundly impact families daily.

To that end, below I highlight 8 things about autism the media is not covering enough. They are not hot-button, provocative or headline-grabbing, but with 1 in 110 children affected by autism (and rising), these issues desperately need more attention:

1. Autism Is Unaffordable

I'd love to see more media focus on how ridiculously expensive it is to treat a child with autism. You can counsel folks all day long to get early intervention, but who in the world can pay for it? Therapies can average over $100-$150 an hour - many require up to 14 or more hours a week. With insurance companies still not covering the vast amount of therapies needed, too many families are forced to pay out of pocket for much of these expenses. A 2006 Harvard study puts the average cost of services for an individual with autism is $3.2 million over his/her lifetime! A total of $35 billion a year is spent on services for individuals with autism in the U.S. The numbers have climbed since then...

Bottom line is treatment is completely and ridiculously unaffordable and can financially bring a family to its knees... even in good times.

Families live on pins and needles with hopes that they're doing the right thing. But the fact is for too many, the things we want to do are simply out of reach financially. I can think of no worse scenario than not being able to afford to help your child.

2. Parental Guilt

So if you are blessed enough to afford it, in my experience it seems that some kids can improve tremendously with a mix of intensive behavioral, biomedical and other treatments. But the fact is so many likely will never be "recovered" and nothing, I mean nothing, makes a parent feel more guilty than thinking you could've "fixed" your kid but... well you didn't or couldn't afford to. If you have a child who is non-verbal and severely impacted by autism, for example, and all you want to hear is him speak or just use the word "no" appropriately, it can be maddening to hear that someone else did x, y or z and now their kid is no longer on the spectrum at all. So many parents have shared with me how badly they feel about this. And although I personally have broken my butt for my son and though he has overcome many challenges we were told he would not, he still has autism. What could I have done better? Oh the guilt! Don't get me wrong, I am always elated for any child's success in this journey, but it can be very hard to swallow at times-making you feel like a failure. Just one mom's opinion, keeping it real...

Alas, accepting my son's progress or lack thereof is the key to moving forward with my head up.

3. Puberty Plus Autism Can Be a Volatile Mix

Our son is almost 13 and has entered puberty. Oftentimes kids on the spectrum can start puberty prematurely, and it can be an extremely jarring experience.

A dear friend of mine and autism "Superdaddy" explains puberty's effect on autism like this: "[Puberty is] an 'oy vey' for a normal child but it can send hormones racing in a child with autism that they don't know how to deal with."

The hormonal surge can cause violent and unpredictable behavior. Stress and depression can develop accompanied by social ostracism.

Our son has suddenly regressed recently after making so much progress, bringing us a new set of challenges we hadn't anticipated. We always always remain extremely hopeful and have been blessed beyond our wildest dreams with what he has been able to overcome to this point. But puberty has been a challenge more parents need to be prepared for. It can be a completely different dynamic at this age. Let's get that out there, please.

4. Minority Children are Diagnosed with Autism Years Later Than Other Children

There are a lot of mysteries about autism. But one thing we know, according to a study covered by CNN:

if a child is diagnosed with autism as early as 18 months of age, offering the toddler age-appropriate, effective therapy can lead to raised IQ levels and improved language skills and behavior.

That's why the fact that African American, Asian and Hispanic children tend to be diagnosed much later than other children (sometimes 2-5 years later) is extremely concerning and needs more attention. One reason these children are diagnosed later is that there are more barriers for socio-economically challenged families to access information. Certain developmental milestones are ignored, unknown or overlooked. Another part of the reason is that there are some cultural and social stigmas about mental health and a fear of talking openly or seeking help for them. So the hope often is that the child will just grow out of it. We just need way more infiltration of autism information and support in minority communities, which will hopefully result in earlier diagnosis. I've visited black churches with this message letting them know they can be extremely helpful in this effort. We can't allow the window for "age-appropriate, effective therapy" to close on these kids.

5. Autism Can Be Tough on A Marriage

Autism is not a divorce mandate. Often it can bond a family tighter. But too often the financial and/or emotional toll autism can take leaves some couples feeling distanced from each other. This was the case with our marriage. My husband and I narrowly survived statistic status. But over the last 10 years I have marveled at his ability to evolve as a father and husband during this bumpy ride that he chronicled in his new book Not My Boy! A Father, A Son, and One Family's Journey with Autism (Hyperion).

I want to shamelessly plug my former NFL QB's evolved, honest account of his pain of dealing with this diagnosis. His personal revelation was that he had to adjust his expectations of his son. Our hope is that Not My Boy! will help so many dads (and moms) confront these challenges without feeling so alone. Rodney has taught me that men process things so differently. I could have been more patient and empathetic with respect to that... a book like this might have offered me that insight earlier on.

Couples digging deep to find the strength and resources to take on this fight together may be rewarded by actually connecting more deeply through this journey instead of being fractured by it.

6. Autism's Effect on Siblings

We don't see too much coverage about what the siblings of autism endure.

Ruined play dates, family outings cut short due to a brother's or sister's public meltdown, feelings of neglect, life planned exclusively around the affected child, social stigma... the list goes on.

It can be devastating for a typical child to have to grow up in such an environment. Sibs are often overlooked and really need a bit of attention; parents need tips to help the siblings cope.

I'm so hopeful this will change a bit with the release of My Brother Charlie, a new children's book co-written by my daughter and me. (We've been a busy family!) Told from a sister's perspective, in My Brother Charlie Callie acknowledges that while it hasn't always been easy for her to be Charlie's twin, she advocates lovingly for her brother, letting people know about all the cool things he can do well. I pray this book will go a long way towards fostering autism acceptance among children and mainstream schools. We found it hard to believe that there wasn't already such a book in children's libraries, considering the rising number of children on the spectrum. We are thrilled that Scholastic stepped up enthusiastically to embrace this important effort.

7. Adults Living with Autism

The face of autism is changing. Our children grow up. Understandably, every parent stresses about what will become of their child with autism in adulthood. It's my own personal recurring nightmare. We ask ourselves: How will he make it in this cruel world without me? Will he live on his own? Will he ever get married or have meaningful relationships? Who will protect his heart? Our fears in this area can consume us.

Here are a few sobering facts:

•More than 80% of adults with autism between 18 and 30 still live at home (Easter Seals)

•There is an 81% unemployment rate among adults with autism (CARD)

•78% of families are unfamiliar with agencies that could help them (CARD)

•At least 500,000 children with autism will become adults during the next decade, and they will need homes, jobs, friends and a future

The good news is many adults living with this disorder live very fulfilling lives, but too many face a variety of difficulties including anxiety, depression, anger and social isolation.

We must create meaningful respectful futures for adults with autism that include homes, jobs, recreation, friends and supportive communities. They are valuable citizens!

How glorious would it be to get more media attention on this particular issue.

And bravo to Fox Searchlight Pictures for their beautiful and enlightening film Adam, which gave great insight into what it is like for a young man with Asperger's syndrome to live and thrive on his own.

8. Autism Advocates Who Actually Have Autism:

What a concept! Rarely do you hear any stories in the media about people actually affected by autism ever weighing in on the issues surrounding it. Because people on the spectrum may seem disengaged, they hear you talking about them and can develop frustration at not being able to respond to issues that affect them. We all need to remember that...

I have had some enlightening and profound conversations with folks on the spectrum who have made it very clear that they feel completely excluded from any national autism conversation. I've had some ask me to be very mindful about my language when speaking about autism. For example, several have said to me they cringe at the word "cure." Many have expressed that they feel this was their destiny, that they were born this way so stop trying to "cure me." Whatever our views or personal agendas, we have to respect that.

Others have been frustrated by the polarizing issues disproportionately covered in the media and would prefer for us neuro-typicals to focus that energy towards trying to understand their world, how they see things. "Come into my world!" one 25 year old young man with Asperger's told me passionately.

My friend, 14-year-old Carly Fleischmann, has autism, and has taught me more about it through her expressive writings than I've learned in any book! You go, Carly!

I am also so grateful to HBO for recently airing the sensational Temple Grandin, finally giving us an image in the media of an adult with autism advocating beautifully and articulately for others like herself.

Bottom line: Their opinions should be heard, valued and included.

So here's to breaking off 8 rays of the media spotlight towards some other important autism issues. Families affected by autism deserve more than just fiery headlines; we deserve a 360 degree, multi-faceted conversation. Spread the word!

Roar and Snore - Taronga Zoo

Have you every dreamed of sleeping with lions and tigers and bears ... OH MY. Here is your chance.

Just as some of the animals and birds are turning are preparing for sleep, the nocturnals' alarms are going off, making Taronga Zoo a great place to be at night. The zoo comes alive as a interesting place of sights and sounds.

Roar 'n' Snore kicks off at dusk. Your overnight Zoo experience begins with refreshments on arrival at the Education Centre. This is followed by an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the Zoo's friendliest creatures. After an outback dinner you can hike through the Zoo on a night safari, led by a Zoo educator, to sneak a nocturnal peak at the animals. As a Roar & Snore camper, you'll sleep in a four-person safari tent (provided) pitched under the stars. You will rise to the warbles, rumbles, squeaks, growls and roars of the animals greeting the day. Your wildlife adventure continues with breakfast before a two-hour behind-the-scenes walk. You are also welcome to spend the next day exploring the Zoo during the daylight hours.

For safety reasons, children younger than 5 years of age are not permitted. Children must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian. A maximum of four children per adult are allowed for supervision purposes.

I can not wait until my kids are older and can enjoy a night with the animals

Vote to Increase Autism Funding

Join one of the 1000 hours dads, Scott Reading, and support his proposal to the Australian Liberal Party to "Increase Autism Funding to $50,000pa per child for 2 years."

If this idea reaches 500 supporters, the relevant Shadow Cabinet Minister will post a response.

Vote now and have your say. It's an election year so let’s make it count!

World Water Day - 22 March

Sometimes I think it is easy for us in the cities and suburbs of the Western World to forget the importance of water ... that is until it is gone. Access to clean and safe water is central to our lives and enables us to do so many things. I can not think of how many times in my day that I am reliant on clean water .. from personal hygiene to drinking .. washing clothes to washing fruits and vegetables & .. to watering the vegetable garden and washing eating utensils. It is central to our lives.

Currently, a billion people in the world lack access to clean, safe drinking water (Charity: Water). That's one in eight of us. It could be three kids in your child's class of 24, it could be one person in your family of mom, dad, four grandparents, and two kids. It could be anyone. The facts are these: Eighty percent of disease is caused by unsafe water (Charity: Water). Unsafe water kills more people per year than AIDS and cancer combined (Hydraid).

How can you make a difference?

All it takes is an investment. Not charity, investment. Invest $20 in Charity: Water and 100% of that investment will reap dividends: partially funding the building of a well so one person in the developing world will have access to clean, safe drinking water for 20 years. Invest $32 in Hydraid and that investment will reap dividends: buying one biosand filter that requires no electricity and minimal setup, to give up to 10 people access to clean, safe water for 10 or more years.

For more information check out www.worldwaterday.org/ ,hydraid.org, charitywater.org, and tapproject.org

Photography Course at Taronga Zoo

What is that old show business saying about never working with children or animals. I know what it is like when I try and take some pictures of my kids ... or cats. Have you ever wanted to do a course that would help improve your photography ... then this might be for you.

Photography Basics at Taronga is a two-day training course designed to give participants the basics of great photography in one of Australia’s most unique and scenic locations – Taronga Zoo! For beginners, this course covers the basics of technique, composition, exposure, light, depth of field, shutter speed and how to make the best use of your photos later. Participants will be treated to two full days with Taronga Zoo’s expert photographers, course material to take home, lunch each day and a certificate of participation.

Check out the Taronga Zoo website for more details on entry requirements and dates

Aust Family Court in Crisis - Another little girl at risk due to Family Court Ruling

After writing the last post I went to The Australian website to read more about what Caroline Overington had to say on the matter. I was shocked to read one day after the story from Hobart that the Family Law Court has done it again.

I saw the headline "Girl put with Dad despite porn fears" I thought it must be the same story as yesterday but I was shocked and alarmed to find that it wasn't. This is another case in Sydney. In summary ...

THE Family Court has ordered a six-year-old girl to live with her father, despite evidence she was forced to pose for pornographic photographs while staying with him on a contact visit. Federal magistrate Robyn Sexton, who presided over the case, which is known as Askis and Morikis, in Sydney, ruled that the girl was not at risk if she lived with the father.

Where is Australia can children get help to protect them from dangerous pedophiles and sex offenders or people that put them in risk of being harmed by pedophiles and sex offenders if the Family Law Court will not help them.

Girls must stay with sex offender dad - What is the world coming to

I could not believe this story when I heard it on the radio yesterday afternoon. I thought the courts in Australia had to put the needs of the child first. How can putting 2 little girls in the same house as their convicted sex offender father with their only protection being a door lock be putting their interest first.

News Report- Channel News05:30 AEST Mon Mar 15 2010
Hobart's Family Court ruled the girls, aged eight and 10, must be able to lock the door and "share the same room so they can have the mutual support of one another", The Australian newspaper reports.

The court heard the man posed little danger to his daughters when they were awake and alert, but that the girls were more vulnerable after dark."At night, when they were asleep or partly asleep and not aware of each other's whereabouts, they would be less secure," a family counsellor said.

The court heard the man had once invited his eldest daughter into his bed and demonstrated "inappropriate" affection.The girl has told a counsellor she is afraid to be around her father.

The man was convicted in 2007 of three child pornography offences including filming images on his computer, the newspaper said.

My opinion ...

How can this happen. Isn't this abuse in itself to let these children be exposed and at risk like this. Where can these little girls get help from if the courts do not protect them from pedophiles.

Taronga Zoo - Help Name the newest addiition to the herd

The miracle elephant calf is continuing to grow stronger each day ... but now comes the time for the elephant to be given its own name.

There are seven names that the Taronga Elephant keepers have selected as having a special connection to the new calf and they want to know which name the public like best. The great bit is you could win a great Taronga Zoo prize!

Name 1: Pathi Harn - meaning miracle
Name 2: Tay Wan - meaning boy in heaven
Name 3: Ming Khwan - meaning good internal strength, good attitude
Name 4: Nam Chok - meaning brings with him good fortune
Name 5: Mongkon - meaning auspicious
Name 6: Boon Thung - meaning merit has lead to reaching this life
Name 7: Chok Dee - meaning very good luck

Enter Online
Simply fill in the online entry form with your favourite name and your reason for choosing it. The entries with the best reason will be selected as the winners!

By entering you have a chance to win one of these great prizes, together valued at over $13,000:


• 1 of 10 Family Roar & Snore passes plus 2 adult Zoo Friend memberships 

• 1 of 10 Money can't buy Behind-The-Scenes experiences for 4 people including Zoo entry 

• 1 of 25 Elephant prize packs
  

But don't just help with naming him ... go for a day out and visit the wonderful work that they are doing with the Asian Elephant Program.

Women's Media Centre

The Women’s Media Center was founded in 2005 as a non-profit progressive women's media organization by writers/activists Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan, and Gloria Steinem.

In the US, the WMC works with the media to ensure that women’s stories are told and women’s voices are heard. They complete this through 3 main activities: through media advocacy campaigns; by creating their own media; and by training women to participate directly in media.

An interesting organisation helping women be heard in the US Media.

Family Funday Sunday - Explore Sydney for Nix

The NSW Government has a great initiative to help Sydney families get out together without it putting too much of a dent in the wallet. Family Funday Sunday.

For $2.50 per person, your family* can enjoy a fun day out with unlimited travel on Sydney's buses, trains and ferries every Sunday. The ticket will even take you to Newcastle and Wollongong! (A family must include at least one adult and one child (an eligible child is aged up to 15 yrs, or 16-18 yrs with a valid school travel pass or current 202 card. Children under 4 yrs travel free))

This is a great way to get the family out together and enjoy our great city.

If you are stuck for idea ... think about...

• Going for a Bushwalk in the Blue Mountains
• At Leura stock up on chocolates, books, fine wines and other treats along its famous main street
• Visit the Zig Zag Railway
• Take a refreshing dip at Merewether Ocean Baths in Newcastle.
• See the blowhole in action on the headland at Kiama and have a picnic at Kiama Harbour.
  
• Catch a ferry to Manly and walk to Shelley Beach, a lovely sheltered swimming spot perfect for families.
• Find yourselves a spot by the beach beneath the pines at Austinmer
  
• Check out the Sydney Tramway Museum near Loftus Station, and then take a tram to the Royal National Park
• Visit Sydney's Chinatown and have an authentic Yum Cha
• Ride Pushbikes around Centennial or Bicentennial Park
• Visit the new elephants at Taronga Zoo
• Have a ride filled day at Luna Park
• Visit Sydney's Theme Parks - Sydney Aquarium and Sydney WildlifeWorld
• Skywalk up the top of Sydney Tower
• Explore the Rocks including a real archelogical site at the Big Dig

There is so much to do ... Enjoy this Sunday with your family and get on board with Family Funday Sunday.

Sydney Eisteddfod 2010

Widely regarded as one of the most successful competitive festival of its type in the world, the Sydney Eisteddfod offers three hundred-plus classical and contemporary events for singers, dancers, actors and
musicians. There are also sections for choirs, bands and orchestras, along with creative categories for composers, writers and poets.

While the competition attracts serious contenders from across the nation it is open to all and includes something for everyone. The reasons why people enter the Edteddfod are many - some enter to test their skills before a live audience, others simply for fun, but as performing in public is great for confidence building, whatever paths entrants follow in future life, the self-assurance they gain through competing will always serve them well. Entering an Eisteddfod is one of those experiences in life when the prize is often more the experience and it is won by those that give it a go.

This year, there will be an added incentive for entrants from regional New South Wales and other States as some financial assistance will be available through the Sydney Eisteddfod Travel Fund for those who have to return to Sydney to compete in a final.

Entries close 22 March and can be lodged online. The 2010 festival will open on 1 June and conclude on 26 September.

http://www.sydneyeisteddfod.com.au

Autism Hour - 30th April 9am

At 9am on August 21 there will be over 1500 people attending the first Asia Pacific Autism Conference, which is the same number of people diagnosed in Australia each year with an autism spectrum disorder (autism). Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder for which as yet there is no cure.

Autism affects at least 1:160 Australian children. This equates to a newly diagnosed child every working hour and more that 30,000 families directly touched by autism. BAsed on these figures it more common in our community than than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined.

Australians are being asked to visit the Autism Hour on 30th April at 9am to pledge how they will spread the message about autism. Last year we had over 5400 people registering on the website. Please do your part by letting as many people as possible know about the website and just how many people are impacted by autism spectrum disorders

Together we can make a difference for everyone impacted by Autism.

ASPECT NSW and Autism Awareness Month

Autism Awareness month is fast approaching and ASPECT NSW has alot planned for the month. Check out the below or go tot the ASPECT website to find out how you can be involved.

But don't also forget the power of your voice. Get in contact with your local politicans and respective Ministers/Secretaries of Health and Community Services ... Get in contact with local media identities ... together we can make better outcomes for children with Autism.
ASPECT AUTISM MONTH CALENDAR

2	World Autism Day
14	Aspect Adult Programs expo An exhibition of programs available for adults with autism will be held at the new Canterbury Day Program site
16	Aspect research forum Aspect will hold its second full-day Research Forum at the State Library of NSW
19 – 24	Painting the spectrum This art exhibition will be held in conjunction with the awards night to showcase the artwork of those involved in the Aspect Community Participation program and also featuring, for the first time, some artwork by students at Aspect schools
22	VIP function Aspect Relationship Fundraising brunch with Stephen Wiltshire for sponsors and supporters
22	Aspect recognition awards Nominations for the 4th annual Aspect Recognition Awards have been extended to Wednesday 17 March Nomination Guidelines (PDF 62KB) Nomination Forms (PDF 65KB)
27	Aspect Hunter School morning tea Have morning tea with staff, students, families and friends of Aspect Hunter School
27	Aspect Albury Wodonga opening Join in the celebration of the official opening of Aspect Albury Wodonga by CEO, Adrian Ford. This official opening represents an expansion of a variety of Aspect services to help fill the growing needs of people in the Albury-Wodonga region
27	Conference for parents and carers Taking Care of the Essentials is a conference especially for parents and carers. It features specialist staff from Aspect to help explore practical approaches to issues relating to raising children and young people who have an autism spectrum disorder
28	Aspect Central Coast School opening
30	Adult programs client and family / carer picnic The Aspect Adult programs picnic is a chance for staff, clients and families / carers to come together and celebrate Autism Month
30	Autism Hour At 9am Australia will be asked to visit the Autism Hour website and pledge how they will spread the message about autism. Last year we had over 5400 people registering on the website. Please do your part by letting as many people as possible know about the website and just how many people are impacted by autism spectrum disorders
30 April - 5 May	Aspect South Coast School art show This exhibition at the North Wollongong Surf Club is open to all Artists with Autism. An invitation only opening will be held on the 30th with special guest feature artist, Tim Sharp. (aka Laser Beak Man – www.laserbeakman.com).
May	Drawtism Play Pictionary and raise money for Aspect. For more information go to www.drawtism.com.au

Mother's Love - Naked Charity Calendar

The quote goes... "Hell has no fury like a woman scorned" ("The Mourning Bride" (1697) by William Congreve) ... I would like to add to this by putting that "... and Satan no power or determination like a Mother whose children need her help" And I think that this story supports that. A great story of what a mum with determination has done to help raise funds to support her daughter's therapy.

However while this is a great story and is good for building Autism Awareness .. it is a shame that it is necessary that she has to go to these lengths in order to be able to afford therapy. Autism should be treated like other illnesses and have treatment fully covered by government funding and private health insurance.

Small Business Spotlight - Scorpion Foods

Time for another small business spotlight. If you like your food .. and like your food to come with a bit of a sting, then you should look at Scorpion Foods.

Scorpion Foods is a gourmet food business supplying the best specialty food stores and direct to the public high quality oils, syrups, marinades and recipe bases. The whole production process at Scorpion Foods is completed under the watchful eye of the Chef Chris Lylod and with all ingredients sourced from the Hunter Valley. All of their foods are also gluten free and do not contain any artificial colours, additives or preservatives.

If you are up at the Hunter Valley this weekend .. Campbells Store at Morpeth is having a big Scorpion Foods tasting weekend next weekend (12-14TH March). So you are in the areas .. pop in and try some of their yummy products.

http://www.scorpionfoods.com.au

5 Steps to a Healthy Lifestyle

No matter what you read in health fad books .. the simple facts are that a healthy active lifestyle combined with a healthy eating is a great way for everyone (not just kids) to be healthy and live a better, longer life.

Being active does not need to be complex or expensive or require you to go long distances. Most can be done either in your backyard or the local park.

Some ideas can include
• Skipping
• Hopscotch
• Juggling with tennis balls or beanbags
• Chasings
• Ball games, such as playing catch or kicking
• French cricket
• Hula hoop
• Pogo stick
• Frisbee – including team games like Ultimate Frisbee
• Skateboarding or roller-blading
• Bike-riding
• Gymnastics on a grass area.

Some more ideas
Healthy Kids Website - Acvitity Ideas
Healthy Kids - FactSheets
Great website for ideas on what you can do to maintain a active and healthy lifestyle.

Child's play in your own backyard
A brochure describing a range of backyard sports, from French cricket to tin-can golf (NSW Dept of Sport and Recreation).

School holiday activities
A long list of ideas for keeping kids active during the holidays – doing things together, going on trips, playing in the backyard, etc (Child and Youth Health, South Australia).

International Women's Day

International Women's Day (8 March) is a global day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future.

International Women's Day has been celebrated for almost 100 years. The first International Women's Day was in 1911. During International Women's Year in 1975, IWD was given official recognition by the United Nations and was taken up by many governments. International Women's Day is marked by a national holiday in China, Armenia, Russia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.

The new millennium has witnessed a significant change and attitudinal shift in both women's and society's thoughts about women's equality and emancipation. Many from a younger generation feel that 'all the battles have been won for women' while many feminists from the 1970's know only too well the longevity and ingrained complexity of patriarchy. The unfortunate fact is that women are still not paid equally to that of their male counterparts, women still are not present in equal numbers in business or politics, and globally women's education, health and the violence against them is worse than that of men.

However, great improvements have been made. We do have female astronauts and prime ministers, school girls are welcomed into university, women can work and have a family, women have real choices. And so the tone and nature of IWD has, for the past few years, moved from being a reminder about the negatives to a celebration of the positives.

Annually on 8 March, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences, government activities and networking events through to local women's craft markets, theatric performances, fashion parades and more.

So make a difference, think globally and act locally !! Make everyday International Women's Day . Do your bit to ensure that the future for girls is bright, equal, safe and rewarding.

Check out the International Women's Day website for more information on events and women's issues.

http://www.internationalwomensday.com/

My Time - supporting parents of children with disabilities

MyTime groups provide support for mothers, fathers, grandparents and anyone caring for a child with a disability or chronic medical condition. Each MyTime group is supported by two workers – a facilitator and a play helper.

How MyTime Works?
MyTime groups provide a place to socialise, to discuss, to get information, and to support and be supported by other carers. Facilitators work with group members, helping them get to know each other and learn more about the services and supports in their area. Members choose what they would like to discuss in their groups, with help from the facilitator. Depending on what the group wants to do, the facilitator might guide group activities or provide resources. Facilitators are workers from local organisations. They have qualifications and experience in disability, parenting or family support and bring to the MyTime group a good understanding of local resources and support services.

Play helpers keep children, including under school aged siblings, busy and active in activities such as singing, drawing, playing with toys, blocks or sand so members can spend time catching up with one another. Play helpers have skills in leading children’s play activities. However, they may not be qualified child care workers.

Each MyTime peer support group has a maximum of twelve families, and meets regularly. The timing of group sessions is decided by families in discussion with the facilitator.

How do I join MyTime?
Mothers, fathers and other family carers of children who are eligible to receive the Carer Allowance (Child) can join MyTime. For more information about eligibility for the Carer Allowance, visit www.centrelink.gov.au

Check out the MyTime website (http://www.mytime.net.au/) for more information on the program and where you can find a group in your local area or call 1800 889 997

M5 Project

Currently, 5 men die every hour in Australia from potentially preventable illnesses. This has to stop!

Face it, men (in general) don’t look after themselves well heath-wise. Sadly, five men die each hour from preventable conditions. That could be our fathers, our friends or sons. You may have already experienced the premature death of someone close to you through heart disease, depression or other preventable conditions.

It is time for this to stop

The M5 Project is not about money. It is not about research. It is not even about a medical cure. It is about our views on Men's Health. It is about getting he community to put men's health into focus and help others see how they can take just five preventative steps.

As a start, men can take five preventive steps:
• Share your family history with your GP
• Know your healthy weight
• Check your blood pressure
• Stop smoking – it’s the only health option
• Maintain a healthy mind and a healthy body

Its that simple ... but it will have a huge effect on improving Men's Health and ultimately saving lives.

What can you do to help?
There are lots of things you can do ...

• Encourage your father, son, brother, friend or partner to talk about their health with you, another friend or a GP.
• Visit the M5 project website for more information
  
• Place M5 posters in a public place or workplace
  

Let's all work together to raise awareness of Men's Health and reduce unnecessary deaths in our community.

http://www.m5project.com.au

Buy handmade- Etsy

Etsy is a social commerce website focused on handmade or vintage items as well as art and craft supplies. Etsy is a community that actively supports one another in the shared goal of offering alternatives to mass-produced objects. They work to highlight the true value of handmade goods and their creators and encourage awareness of the social and environmental implications of production and consumption

What can be sold on Etsy?
On Etsy items that can be sold are either

• Handmade
• Commercial and Hand-made crafting supplies
  
• Vintage - To be classed as vintage items must be at least 20 years old.

These items cover a wide range including art, jewelery, bags and purses, clothing, paper goods, candles, furniture, quilts, plants, woodwork and toys.

What doesn't Etsy sell?

• Items that don't fall within the 3 critera groups
• Handmade items made by someone else
• illegal and prohibited items
  

For those of you that like to do some traditional scrapbooking you can find some interesting and unique elements to add to your pages from stores on Etsy. Check out Chelly Bean Designs - She is a great scrapbooker and has some really interesting elements to add to your pages.

If you are interested in the unique, handmade items or some classic Vintage ... Etsy is worth a look

Top 10 Terrific Traits of Autistic People

I found this when I have been doing some reading on Autism Awareness with the lead up to Autism Awareness month. I think it is really beautiful. I found it on My Autistic Muslim Child.

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If you’re tired of hearing about all the “deficits” challenging people on the autism spectrum, join the club! But for every down side to autism, there seems to be a positive — an unusual trait that rarely appears among the “typical” community, but shines out among autistic folk. These pluses are well worth celebrating.

1. Autistic People Rarely Lie

We all claim to value the truth, but almost all of us tell little white lies. All, that is, except people on the autism spectrum. To them, truth is truth — and a good word from a person on the spectrum is the real deal.

2. People on the Autism Spectrum Live in the Moment

How often do typical people fail to notice what’s in front of their eyes because they’re distracted by social cues or random chitchat? People on the autism spectrum truly attend to the sensory input that surrounds them. Many have achieved the ideal of mindfulness.

3. People with Autism Rarely Judge Others

Who’s fatter? Richer? Smarter? For people on the autism spectrum, these distinctions hold much less importance than for typical folks. In fact, people on the spectrum often see through such surface appearances to discover the real person.

4. Autistic People are Passionate

Of course, not all autistic people are alike. But many are truly passionate about the things, ideas and people in their lives. How many “typical” people can say the same?

5. People with Autism Are Not Tied to Social Expectations

If you’ve ever bought a car, played a game or joined a club to fit in, you know how hard it is to be true to yourself. But for people with autism, social expectations can be honestly irrelevant. What matters is true liking, interest and passion — not keeping up with the Joneses.

6. People with Autism Have Terrific Memories

How often do typical people forget directions, or fail to take note of colors, names, and other details? People on the autism spectrum are often much more tuned in to details. They may have a much better memory than their typical peers for all kind of critical details.

7. Autistic People Are Less Materialistic

Of course, this is not universally true — but in general, people with autism are far less concerned with outward appearance than their typical peers. As a result, they worry less about brand names, hairstyles and other expensive but unimportant externals than most people do.

8. Autistic People Play Fewer Head Games

Who was that woman, and why were you looking at her? I know I TOLD you I didn’t mind if you went out, but why did you believe me? Most autistic people don’t play games like these — and they assume that you won’t either. It’s a refreshing and wonderful change from the Peyton Place emotional roller coaster that mars too many typical relationships!

9. Autistic People Have Fewer Hidden Agendas

Most of the time, if a person on the autism spectrum tells you what he wants — he is telling you what he wants. No need to beat around the bush, second guess, and hope you’re reading between the lines!

10. People with Autism Open New Doors for Neurotypicals

For some of us neurotypicals, having an autistic person in our lives has had a profound positive impact on our perceptions, beliefs and expectations. For me, at least, being the mom of a son on the autism spectrum has released me from a lifetime of “should” — and offered me a new world of “is.”

By Lisa Jo Rudy, About.com Guide