Owen woke happy and talkative. However, there was no convincing him that I should leave the “white bed” even though I reminded him that was the only way he was going to get to school. I reminded him that we had to get ready and he told me he wanted to wear shorts. I told him that soon he was going to need to wear pants and he had one answer for me “No.” I think my mom is right shorts over sweatpants might be the only way to go.
Changing Owen’s daily morning routine is hard. Supplements, medicines, brushing teeth, clothes, and anything else that needs to be done is not something he wants to do because he is focused on the one thing he wants to do and that is get out that door. Today was that day. My heart breaks when it is so hard on him but there are days we have to push through it all to make it out the door.
The weight kept sitting on top of me after he left. The last week one thing after another kept happening and when there is nothing I can do about any of it besides wait it is truly hard to process it all. I think about how hard it is to make decisions anymore. We used to have fewer choices and not everything was available all the time. Now we have to make quick choices with a million more options. I can only imagine how Owen feels when I list four things for him to decide from when I should only be giving him two. But that’s where we are in the world.
As the morning went on one person after another reached out to me and lifted my spirits. I was beyond thankful for the outpouring of love and support. Then Owen’s teacher sent me an amazing message and it made my heart so happy. It was all exactly what I needed. Progress from my boy and joy in my heart from others got me through the day.
When he came home I was ready to see his smiling face. He said, “Sorry Mommy” when we came inside. I told him I was sorry too. I always want him to know we are in this together. He often reminds me with his words and actions that just because he doesn’t always know how to express himself or answer something doesn’t mean he doesn’t feel it or know it. He knew today and he gave me a big hug.
I wanted him to have a calm night. I asked him a few questions about his day and he was able to describe the project they worked on but I knew I wasn’t going to push it if he didn’t answer. He requested waffles for dinner without me giving him any choices so waffles it was. Bedtime came and he was ready. He knew he wasn’t going to see his grandma until Sunday so I hope it doesn’t cause him to overthink too much.
Each day we are faced with challenges and today those challenges felt overwhelming but through prayer, love, compassion, and understanding it was a journey of growth. I’m thankful for my sweet baby O and that amazing little giggle that lights up my world. Remember you are bigger than any challenge you face. Tomorrow is a brand new day. Smiles to all and donut daze!