Hard to let go sometimes!!

[6_Time_Momma]

Garrett has always wanted to go to a "friend's house" o play, like he sees his big brother and sister do, but the protective mom in me has never wanted to let him out in the "world"! I feel that he is so vulnerable.

I was so afraid.....how would he communicate with the parents? Would he play okay with the other kid? How would his behavior be? How would the parents and/or siblings treat him? Etc., etc., etc.

Yesterday, one of his schoolmates mother invited Garrett to their house after school today. Garrett kept signing the kid's name and the sign for house......he sooooooo much wanted to go, so I could no longer deny him.

He rode the bus to his house. I just got done talking to his dad. Garrett had a great time. He loved their horses. They had a popcorn fight. He was able to get his needs known. He was laughing like crazy at something apparently. He is on his way home now (parents are bringing him home) and I am so glad!! But, I am so happy that he was able to have fun at a friend's house like "normal" kids.

Still, it is soooooo hard to let go!!

 

[jamsmom]

That is so exciting. Yes, it is hard to let them grow up. Since DS is ADHD AND OCD, we still rarely let him go to others houses.

You should be proud.

 

[snoopy]

Oh, geez, Kristy, you have me in tears! Happy tears, of course.

That is so incredibly sweet. I am so glad Garrett had such a nice time.

 

[helenabear]

Kristy, you sure made me smile with that So glad that Garrett had such a great time with his friend today

 

[dandave]

That is so great!

 

[Pooh93]

That sounds wonderful! Yes, it is hard to let go! I need to practice it myself!

 

[Princess Michelle]

I know it must have been hard to let him go but I'm so glad he had so much fun!

 

[newmousecateer]

Kristy, I think that made my evening! I pictured him as I read your post, and what you said warmed my heart. Nice that his friend has such nice parents.

{{HUGS}}

 

[Dan Murphy]

That is so nice, Kristy. What a nice read after a tough day in the world. Thanks.

 

[kejoda]

Sounds like Garrett had a wonderful day! I know how you feel Kristy.

 

[Talking Hands]

Sounds like Garrett had a great time. Is Garrett deaf or does he use sign for other reasons? Just curious.

 

[BWVDenise]

It's wonderful that this first experience was so positive for him (AND you)!


I was wondering where you were, haven't seen you here since your trip!

 

[6_Time_Momma]

Originally posted by Talking Hands
Sounds like Garrett had a great time. Is Garrett deaf or does he use sign for other reasons? Just curious.

Garrett has Down Syndrome and, for reasons his speech therapist is not quite clear on, he has never been able to speak clearly (even for someone with Downs). Some of it stems from fluid build-up that we never have been able to clear, but I think he also has some other undiagnosed hearing loss (slight). I have to take him to an audiologist next month.

 

[janette]

I'm smiling with tears in my eyes. What a happy picture and how great for Garrett!

 

[Liz]

I'm so happy for you, Kristy, and Garrett! Even when there aren't special circumstances its hard to let go! But hearing about Garrett doing so well and having so much fun is really special! Thanks for sharing it with us!

 

[DonnaS]

That's wonderful, Kristy!

 

[6_Time_Momma]

Originally posted by BWVDenise
It's wonderful that this first experience was so positive for him (AND you)!


I was wondering where you were, haven't seen you here since your trip!

I keep meaning to post a trip report, but can't seem to find the time!!! I am working 4-5 days(nights) a week, plus I am studying at home in an effort to test out of a college microbiology course next month. SOMEDAY, I will get around to it though!!! I have been popping in to read, though!

 

[CathyCanada]

Kristy, you know that I know EXACTLY what you mean. I am so happy for Garrett, a teary-eyed moment here. Wish you lived closer, I'd love to meet him someday, I feel like I "know" him. And I could sign to him too.
Hugs
Cathy

 

[mamajoan]

Wow! You did a good job, MOM!! I have a belief that God only gives us what we can handle.. even if we need help to handle what he has given us. God definately knew what he was doing when he placed Garrett wiht you and your family. I have read many of your posts regarding Garrett.. I think there is a true independent spirit in him.. one that is striving to get out! I am sure you will guide him with alot of love.


as for Garrett.. DUDE YOU ROCK!!!

 

[Cindy B]

Thats great...as for the signing.. and the hearing loss.. I have a story for you...


My son had a playmate that was born deaf.. he was younger only not quite 3 when he got a cochlear implant (maybe that a possibility for you?)... and before the CI, my DH and I knew some sign, and and my DS (same age ) knew some as well... things like "play" "eat", and other stuff.

Well the boys got older, and in the same kindergarten class. The boy with the CI got better in speech, and he would come over fairly regularly, and we would go over there. One time he came over and said, and pointed My CI is broken... well.. the mom was on the way.. so they just played without. They did fine.

They adapted. He still signs sometimes, and if they were playing with water, the CI would have to come off.. so they managed fine. My son would just look in his eye to for him to lipread, or just grab his hand.

That is so exciting to hear that Garrett is doing well, and that things are great... but don't worry.. kids adapt and do well.