Every year, the week of Thanksgiving, I share a list of what I’m thankful for. It’s an odd list, usually, because everyone knows I’m thankful for my kids, my family and friends and my dog. I share the “different” things I’m thankful for – the little things we sometimes take for granted.
1. I’m thankful that, so far, we are all healthy and that the cancellations of COVID have been taken in stride by Casey and Rob. Let me tell you – it wasn’t too long ago that major changes like this would have sent her into constant meltdowns and his anxiety through the roof. While she is getting a little irritated by what’s cancelled (the Christmas parade and camp weekend this week), she’s still being calm.
2. I’m thankful there is a young man on eBay that sells Legos by the shape and color you want. Rob absolutely loves the squares that are yellow and blue and the green and brown rectangles. I can buy each by the pound.
3. I’m thankful that neither of them mind wearing masks. They actually handle it better than me.
4. I’m thankful for all of the crafts and pictures they have been making at Hopewell. While Casey won’t share hers (they have to go in a basket in her room) Rob will share a few. Some must be hung in his room, though.
5. I’m thankful that what they “need” to buy when we go to the store are cheap and easy to find almost anywhere. Coloring books, socks, playing cards, construction paper – all things that make Casey and Rob happy.
6. I’m thankful that some of their super strict routines can be changed without drastic results. (Though, honestly, their evening routine isn’t one I mess with much – I need my sleep! ☺)
7. I’m thankful most junk mail is the perfect consistency he wants to rip up. He rarely rips magazines, anymore, but will grab them to add to his growing collection. So I limit what comes in the house because it’s nearly impossible to get rid of any without him knowing. (How do they DO that???)
8. I’m thankful for his bear hugs and her gentle not-quite-a-hug hugs. (She usually puts her hands on the other person’s shoulders and leans forward.) In pictures, he always throws his arms around people, while she keeps her hands together.
9. I’m thankful they will both fold their own laundry – hers, very precise, his, not so much. ☺
10. I’m thankful for what autism has brought into my life. Not the sleepless nights or meltdowns or other challenges, but the friends I would have never made. The confidence I gained from dealing with doctors and other professionals. The childlike wonder that will never leave our home. The ability to see the world differently – to see only the good and the beauty.
And I’m thankful for each of you that takes the time to read our story each week and follow our circus on Facebook.
Have a Happy and safe Thanksgiving! Look for your little, odd things to be thankful for!
I’m thankful for you sharing with us – it’s a constant reminder to me to keep it simple and to be thankful for all things. Love your kids, they are remarkable!! Oh, love you too, of course !
We always keep it simple. Lol oh try anyway! Some of their “rules” aren’t simple, tho. Thank you! Love you, too!!