I am sure, from what I've read, that your son is above average intelligence, with a lively imagination and the normal fears of many sensitive 8 year olds.
I also think your own health problems have some bearing on this; after all, you sleep on the couch occasionally, so why shouldn't he change where he's sleeping?
It's true that our children notice our own behaviour and health issues and worry that they might be left alone one day. (though they may not be able to articulate this) They have no discernment at 8 years old that this happens to everyone and they cope.
Getting the diagnosis of ADD & ODD is great, now you know that there are things to work through and with. Never allow him to believe that having these makes him 'lesser than' in any way. ADD kids are often the leaders :-)
Although this will be a phase, because your son is so strong willed and likes to be in charge (even of you!) don't let this very real fear develop into a means of manipulating you. He still needs the firm guidelines you've always provided.
Have you tried audio books? When my son went through this phase, we did everything you have done and it threatened to develop into more than a phase so I bought several 'talking books'- making sure there was nothing in them that was scary. He also had music tapes and relaxation tapes which we used together to help calm "our" fears.
The rule then became when he woke up he'd listen to a book, then relaxing, sometimes classical, music - he was in control of this and he was happy with that, especially as we encouraged his vivid imagination to make good pictures of the music created in his mind.
We don't have TV either, nor do we get newspapers or magazines and negative conversations by adults are discouraged in front of the children. Eight is too young to cope with the horrors of the world.
As Glenn's Mom said, we are all concerned for you, so I hope some of our suggestions work out. Rest assured, he won't be like this for ever!
Maroon is a dramatic colour so you need to balance it with a pastel. Very pale green or blue, cream or grey. You could always bind a plain coloured bedspread and curtains with maroon satin to co-ordinate it. ... View related article.
What a lovely boy he must be to ask for enough to go round his friends AND the locals. Bless his dear heart, I'm glad he enjoyed his birthday. ... View related article.
Pastry should always be kept as cool as possible, so use iced water (and cold hands!) and try and roll it out as quickly as possible. Make into whatever shape you need then put back in fridge to relax before cooking. Cool and quick is the motto for pastry but there are very experienced cooks who can't manage to make good pastry, it really is an art - so you are not alone.
