Thursday, February 26, 2009

My Matthew

This photo has actually nothing to do with this post but I just loved it!
Anyway….I had to post something really cool that happened yesterday with my little man. Though Matthew’s ability to appropriately communicate is coming along, there are many areas where he does not use his words (as is the case with many kids with autism). He does not describe emotions that he feels and often does not give any verbal indication of what he may be thinking about and why. Yesterday I took him to the Irvine Spectrum to meet up with some friends. As our crazy adventurous friends were riding the giant ferris wheel, I pointed them out to Matthew and told him to wave. He yelled at them “Be careful, don’t fall down!” I asked him if he wanted to go for a ride and he answered “Nooooooooooooo”. I asked why and he said “Wheew too tawy” (Wheel too scary). I was so excited that he was able to answer “why” and relate it to an emotion. When our friends got off the ride, Matthew took the hand of his little friend Brenna and looked at me and said “Matthew happy! Go Da an Buth” (Matthew happy, go Dave and Busters) as we walked toward Dave and Busters (a favorite stop these days). Regardless of what behaviors or setbacks we deal with, it is these moments that Mark and I live for and give us reassurance that Matthew is on his way. One of those snapshots in time that I just want to remember and savor.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Fun at the Zoo


It was finally a warm and sunny day so I took Matthew to the Santa Ana Zoo with our friends. He had fun seeing the monkeys, snakes and birds but his favorite was the play area and train. Matthew loves being outdoors and enjoyed spending some time in the sun.
Matthew's buddy Brenna
Cute little Kirin
The smile that makes my heart flutter!
Regardless of what challenges we may be struggling with at the moment, I look at Matthew's precious face and am reminded what a gift Mark and I have been given. One of Matthew's hugs or kisses and the world becomes a perfect place.
I love you little guy.

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Mommy's Valentine

For Valentine's Day we had Grandpa and Grandma Sumida, Nagymama and Auntie Mary come for a GFCF brunch prepared by Mark. Matthew enjoyed seeing his loved ones and of course.....being the center of attention.
Grandpa and Grandpa Sumida
Nagymama
My men.....
and when everyone went home....
Mommy's little valentine fell asleep.