On March 13 I posted about VH1 Classic’s upcoming Rock Autism project; I’ve been checking regularly to see when it will be launched and I just discovered this evening that it is officially live: VH1 Classic’s Rock Autism Campaign. Just in time for National Autism Awareness Month which begins tomorrow, April 1st.
From the VH1 site:
VH1 Classic’s Rock Autism campaign is designed to help educate parents and
build awareness about autism, a complex neurobiological developmental disorder
that lasts throughout a person’s lifetime, and to raise funds for a variety of
autism research, advocacy, and support organizations. Autism affects one in
every 150 children, with a child diagnosed every 21 minutes. Today, there is no
known cause or cure. VH1 Classic aims to galvanize a community of artists and
fans in support of this cause.
Several classic rockers, including Steven Tyler, Dee Snyder, and Rob Halford have participated in a Public Service Announcement to help promote autism awareness. In addition there is a “Facts” section which discusses both diagnostic and treatment options.
Today was a “me” day - I had a day full of mommy time. What is mommy time? Mommy time is when daddy (or someone else) takes the children so you can go do whatever you want - see a movie, go shopping, whatever it is you want. You know your children are in good hands so there is no worrying. You’re reachable by cell phone if an emergency comes off. For a while you can take off your “mommy” hat and put on you “me” hat.
Why is mommy time important then? If you don’t take care of yourself, who’s going to take care of you then? You have to realize that being a parent, mother or father, takes a lot out of you emotionally, physically, mentally. It is easy to be burnt out, even if you have typically developing children. Getting out of the house, or spending alone time in the house, is important to recharge your battery so-to-speak. You must maintain balance in your family life and that starts with maintaining balance in yourself.
So what did I do today? I started off my day with a nice iced chai tea; its my special treat and I just love it. I then met up with two other mothers who are also Attachment Parenting International leaders to discuss plans for promoting attachment parenting and API in our community. After that I went to a BBQ being hosted by an automotive shop and a car club. Yup, a car club. I’m in a car club and love it. Its like my second family; I haven’t been out to one of their events in several months so it was great to see some very friendly faces again. They call me “Mommie” and most greet me with big hugs and ask about the kids. They really are my second family.
So if you are a parent and you have the opportunity to get out for some “you” time I highly suggest you take it.
