Oh Annie, I'm so sorry. I can't imagine how you can function after losing your only child. It must hurt so much.

BNL'sMom, I understand how you're feeling, but I think it's a natural progression, and you'll come to terms with it in the end. My son is aspie, and his deeply affectionate nature has always been masked by a difficulty in expressing his emotions. But I know he's full of love, and is pushing beyond his boundaries. Perhaps your younger son just doesn't express his feelings.

Yesterday my son went into the shop and cancelled his beano (a comic magazine for boys in the UK.) That was a "growing up" moment. And we've got rid of the children's channels on our tv package.

Your kids will always be your kids. Relax, and they will come back to you. For years I held my Dad at a distance, and he waited painfully and patiently. We're friends again, and I know we'll always love each other, despite our difference, and even similarities. Trust your kids. They'll come back.