Coming out of a Children's theatre production a few weeks ago, he so sweetly said to Mark, "Nice show, Daddy." Two amazing things about that story--both he was able to comment about the show and that he stayed in through the whole play (thanks to his brother's Ipad!) He is in a regular ed preschool that has several kids with disabilities integrated as well. When he comes home, he shares songs and routines with us..and often he tells us that it is "noisy." My fear after he was diagnosed with autism was that he would be unable to share his heart.. that we would be unable to know exactly what he was thinking and feeling. My fear is gone.
He is now potty trained. He is obsessed with every bathroom everywhere. But, he's potty trained and so we aren't complaining. He is reading fluently and the ipad has been a lifesaver for our families sanity. Elijah can read books, play games and entertain himself if an environment may normally cause him anxiety. We can eat at a restaurant without having to address Elijah's needs through the whole meal.
"Phillips Wangensteen Building" "Washington Ave Parking Ramp"--not usually words a 4 year old can read!
Elijah can sound out just about any word. His ability to read never ceases to amaze us. He is tolerating his large classroom (20 kids) pretty well and he will definitely be ready for kindergarten next year.
Overall, Elijah looks very healthy. But, there are some changes to his blood work and things could change quickly as far as his health. We are enjoying the healthy days we are having and trying to take breaks from the exhausting regime that it takes to keep him doing well. With shots every other day, tubes feedings, medications, blood work, enzymes, vitamins, even a good day is a lot of work.
Elijah is enjoying life. He proves everyday that life is about making the most of all that we have been given...good and bad. God is not wasting his autism...and Elijah doesn't even know it. He is speaking loud and clear through Elijah and his illness, his disability, his challenges. Elijah is having so much fun with his family. He loves wild rides, 4 wheeling, the McDonald's playland and the trampoline. He is thriving in ways we hadn't expected.
He is a joy in our lives and a welcome diversion from the teenage chaos going on right now... It is about celebrating the little things...and knowing that all things are given to us for a reason beyond just us.
