The Door Is Unlocked - All You Have To Do Is Open It

I feel that when we moved to Ohio we unlocked another door for you. Even though I complain and have my moments it has provided so many opportunities, but you have to be the one to push that door open. You need to be the one to decide when the time is right and walk through the door which will open to so much more.

Today, you gave it a little nudge. You took a deep breath and pushed through your day without a care in the world and without wondering what others would think. You showed your personality, relaxed around the house, allowed time for us to cuddle, and continued to use your device with ease. You talked to me using your own words, then some in your own language, and even more with your device, you talked to people at lunch and you played a variety of new games.

What continued to shock me the most was the flow and ease of your device usage this weekend and you decided it was time to put together two and three word sentences. These included, but were not limited to, "give help please," "more candy please," "help me, " "give me," "eat candy please," and the list went on. These are all words you had been using independently but decided today would be the day to combine them. As a typically developing child grows parents always mark these moments and remember first words, sentences, etc. For us, you might be seven and a little late but that just makes it all that more special.

The best part of the day though was when I called you over for dinner, served you the gluten free version of hamburger helper, and you just looked at me for a minute - turned to your device and said "stop" .... "don't give please!" I had to laugh and honor this request - also question for a second if I was sure I wanted you to have that voice :) - and let you pick what you ate. Not the most well rounded meal but you picked strawberries, cheese, and pepperoni.

I cannot wait for you to feel safe enough and secure enough at school and other environments to show them these skills. I know you enjoy school now but you are still not sure you want them to see what you are capable of. I am sure they think I am a crazy parent that says you do so much more then you are doing but I also know you and I have worked very hard for the last two years to get to where we are today.

Building our relationship, trust, and bond has not been the easiest. We have had our ups and downs and moments of insecurity, but all of that seems to be fading. Everyday I look at you and it reminds me of how lucky I am to have you as my son, that you have taught me so much and continue to teach me lessons everyday.

Keep on Truckin Baby
Love
Mom