Thankful

What are you thankful for this year?

I am so thankful for my wonderful, smart, sweet, funny, caring little boy. He is my love, my light and my life. I am so thankful today that I got a call from Seattle Children's Autism Center to schedule our ADOS test after a year of waiting.

I am thankful for my wonderful family and friends, without whom I couldn't imagine life. I am thankful that I am able to have a safe, warm home, and nice job, and for the most part, good health.

This year has brought me joy and sorrow, I have learned strength and weakness, and I have climbed mountains and fallen in ditches. But through it all I remember at the end of the day, I have Miller. I can be completely angry at him for something and he'll come up to me and want a kiss on his forehead. He has so much joy and wonder. I wish I could feel that way as well. But that is the magic of childhood.

It was amazing watching him try to catch snowflakes in his hand. He thought they were so awesome. He was dancing all the way to the car even in the freezing cold.

I can't wait until next year when I can look back and remember all the wonderful things of the year.

Bragging Rights

I am so proud of my son!

Not only has he learned to use the "more" sign, but he now has the ability to apply it to all aspects of his day. For example, he uses "more" when playing his favorite games. He has also been learning to point. We are just using this during mealtimes, but I'm hoping that it will catch on as well. Over the past few weeks I have been looking into various different communication options until Miller can develop verbally. I think we will be going with a method called PECS (click the word to learn more about PECS). It seems to fit Miller's learning style the best. Now all I have to do is learn how to use it myself!

At the beginning of the month Terry, Miller and I went into Seattle to visit Children's Hospital for our blood draw. I'm really hoping that we will hear back from the study.

On a happy note, Miller is starting to notice all the festive displays in stores and around town. With his schooling, he can now focus on things, like Christmas lights! He loves looking at them. Terry and I are looking forward to taking him to the Bellevue Botanical Gardens for their annual Christmas lights displays. Maybe Miller will even sit still long enough for a nice picture with Santa (unlike last year...I'd rather not remember that!)