A Day of Challenges and Joys

If you remember in my original post I stated that we have a child with Asperger's Syndrome (mild autism.) If you have ever had the privilege of watching Parenthood (Tues nights on NBC) you may have seen a glimpse of life with a child with this condition. First and foremost we often do not know what "sets him off" and today was no different. Today was the day he was to find out if he made the A honor roll (which has been working all trimester to achieve) and he also had a large math test he wasn't prepared for. Alex woke up early and seemed very sleepy. So at 7:10am I said we needed to get moving or he may be late for school. He dragged his feet and started "grunting" at me, which he does, I think to keep from saying something inappropriate to me. Finally, after much prodding he started to eat and then I went to take the dogs out and I heard him yell at Emily. When I came back in he had tried to hurt her, needless to say I came unglued at him. So frustration ensued from all parties and then I sent him off to school. This, I promise, is never a good feeling as a mother. So I was fighting back tears most of the morning over it and then Mrs Cooper (his case manager) emailed...He did it! He made the A honor roll. Almost that quickly I forgot about the horrible morning we had just come through and my mom feelings swung all the way to the other extreme! I am just so proud of him. This last 11 months has been such a challenge...fear, faith, sadness, joy, uncertainty and love are just a few of the emotions that have overtaken me. It is amazing how God just places those blessings right where they need to be placed to make it all worth it.
And if that wasn't new enough Emily placed #2 in the entire 5th grade spelling bee. She told me...I can't believe I missed gnarled! I know it has a silent g. It blesses me and melts my heart that they are learning and growing. I have learned in my business that with growth often comes discomfort, but we have each other and that's how we'll make it. Day by day we will meet the challenges head on...I'm sure it will be messy at times, but without a test there is no testimony.