P is for Party!

We had a few of Squish's classmates (and their parents and siblings) over for pizza and cake last night to celebrate his fourth birthday. After much discussion, The Hubs and I agreed that while the family party we have for the Squishes every year is fun, this was the year we should invite school friends. But we also knew that having everyone over for one party would be overload for Squish, for his classmates, and for us. So pizza party night was born.

And it was FANTASTIC! The kiddos did great. We bounced on the trampoline, played on the swingset, ate pizza and cake, and then it was over. It was so fun and time just flew by. And honestly, it was the least stressful party we've ever had. Squish was totally at ease with his classmates, and we were at ease as parents knowing that everyone in the room understood us and our unique challenges and opportunities. It was like an instant bond developed.

And when everyone left and tubs were had and pjs put on, Squish looked at me and said, "What happened?" and I said, "We had a party for you, did you have fun?"

"Party" he said with a smile. What a kick-ass way to start his fourth year!

O is for Opportunity

Today marks Squish's fourth birthday. Last night the whole family was sitting on the couch watching Bob the Builder and snuggling and I was thinking about where I was four years ago. Hugely pregnant, excited, nervous. I didn't have a clue what mothering would be like. I thought I did. I had read books! I had talked to other women! I was ready. Snort.

And then I thought of all that we've been able to experience in the last four years. The highs, the lows, the in-betweens. And the lessons I've learned about myself, about love, about the act of mothering (verb) versus being a mother (noun) and it's been a breathtaking journey. With tears in my eyes, I gave Squish a kiss on his curly little head and said "Thank you." The Hubs looked over at me and said, "What are you thanking him for?"

"The opportunities he's given this family to grow."

Happy Birthday Baby. You are one of a kind and I look forward to all the adventures the next year will bring.

oxox,
Mommy

N is for Nutty

Um. Is this thing on? So it's been almost a year. Don't really want to backtrack, just want to say that the "regression" that started in May lasted in fits and starts throughout the summer and then ended with the start of the school year. It was a long, long, summer. But Squish rallied, as always, and is now cooking along in his preschool/ABA/Music/OT/Swim lessons and in life. He has started using the PECS system and it's spurred a whole lot of language and comprehension. He's also starting a reading and writing program (at 4!) because he is so visual and has a kick ass memory. And he's turning into a little man. A gorgeous little curly-headed man who is making his way with us right beside him.

I'm going to be updating here more regularly, but it won't always be about Squish and autism. It may be about Squish II (who will be 2 in April!) or me, or the Hubs. That's been a change I've been through in the last several months. Autism has taken a backseat to life. I know it's going to be with us always, but it doesn't get to sit up front!

;) md