Just like the Lego song….
I don’t write enough, I know but tonight I am compelled to tell you things…
I want to tell you about milestones!
How in the last year, Emily has learned:
1. to feed the dogs…. Not too much or too little… Just enough food and water. No messy puddles around their bowls, just perfect.
2. to help empty the dishwasher.
3. to move the laundry from the washer to the dryer.
4. to make her bed and keep her room clean.
5. to fold socks, undies and face cloths.
6. to put her clothes away, all but the ones on hangers.
7. To cheer
8. to sail
9. to set the water temperature when she takes her shower.
And many more little things…
Many…
This is part of why everything is awesome.
What else?
This morning, I reminded Emily that we have box seat tickets to see the Sound of Music over the weekend. I wanted her to decide who we should invite.
For the first time ever, she picked a friend.
A friend!!! This is huge, Emily struggles with social interactions, she tries but it’s not easy and today she asked me to invite a specific friend.
I did and they said yes so this will be a mothers and daughters outing.
I’m so happy about this!
On top of that…. On Monday this week, Emily started her coop program at school. 5 mornings a week, she will work at one of our local Superstore learning new skills.
Yesterday was a snow day.
Today was her second day and I turned into that mom… The one who shows-up at her kid’s work and take a picture!
Look at her, all grown-up!
She wanted to hug me when I showed-up but I reminded Emily that she was at work and had to act professional. So she did and that made me so proud.
So far, she loves it!
Wait…. There’s one more thing!
Earlier this month, I received a friend request from a mom of a little boy who has Cri du chat syndrome. I have known about her and her family for some time now due to a common friend. I didn’t reach out to her, I gave her space and made myself available. She sent me a note on Feb 4th saying “your words gave me light in a time of darkness and fears”. She’s been reading my blog!
I’m humbled!
So… 2 weeks later, I received a private Facebook message from another mom. Her baby girl is 10 months old and has Cri du chat syndrome too. In a nutshell, she thanked me for my blog. For giving her a positive story and inspiring her to learn about Cri du chat. Something about how I look at the bright side of life. I had tears in my eyes when I read her message and more tears when I read it out loud to my husband.
Those moms are why I write!
So tonight, I’m grateful for life.
Everything is awesome!
If you want short updates and timely pictures of the little things that are happening in our life, please like Lessons From My Daughter page on Facebook!
A perfect early morning start your day read. Tx for sharing.
Thank you
Wow look at your little girl. No wonder you are so proud. Lucky the parents facing a similar journey who find your blog. Congrats to you all.
Thank you Tric. I feel like she grew up really fast suddenly :).
I am so impressed with her new skills. I think that parents of typical kids just don’t understand the thrill of seeing a child master something that most of us take for granted. You really do give hope to those of us with children or grandchildren with Cri du chat. I see our Allie gaining skills but, sometimes, I wonder how far she’ll be able to go. Your stories and Emily’s triumphs open windows into the future for our little lady. Thanks!
Our kids are all different. At work, I have a small group of friends who understands (to some degree) the challenges Emily faces and with them I share those milestones but in general, with acquaintances, I keep updates more general. Most people can’t quite fathom the struggles and challenges we (Emily) face daily. Our kids have faced more challenges and overcome more obstacles in their life than most will ever do but yet, they get barely any recognition… How strange is that?
Love the photo and the story.
Thank you!
how utterly wonderful on so many levels )
Thank you! I am really proud of her!
That’s all so great! Being an inspiration to someone is the highest compliment one can receive.
I have to agree. I write for myself, to give Emily a voice and I can only hope that our journey inspires others who are today where we were 17 years ago… The lack of knowledge out there on rare genetic disorders is so scary. Outdated information is given to parents of newly diagnosed babies… I’m trying to help in my own way.
Sounds as if you’re doing a fine job.
💜thank you
You’re welcome! 🙂