It's so hard!!! We have big families, the holidays are always a time to get together. We have always tried to make it to everything, but for the past few years, it has been harder and harder. 1. We start by having anxiety about going and I mean as soon as I hear about the get together. 2. Then we make the very conscious decision to go and get Nathan prepared bringing whatever we think he will need. 3. Once we are there neither one of us can enjoy a conversation, or just sit and eat, we have to chase Nathan around. He doesn't just go and play with the other kids, he barely interacts, he can't talk so he doesn't say hi to people. He doesn't like to hug very many people or even touch them for that matter. 4. We finally know when he's had enough and we decide to leave. We know we haven't stayed long, we know it feels rude, but we have to leave because of him and our own sanity. We are exhausted. 5. Usually I cry on the way home. I leave feeling more depresse