The emotional rollercoaster strikes again. I watched Owen as he bent himself in a thousand directions, trying to catch the right reflection on the tv, staring at it from as many angles and positions as he could. He squealed with delight. I got a little more emotional. Today was a rough day for me. And Owen seemed like he had a hard time processing it all. The last two days have been like that for him. He has to repeat and repeat and repeat the same actions and then repeat some more. If I don’t answer the way he wants the squeals turn to screams of anguish. I try to do my part. But it can be very exhausting. Plus, I am always trying to figure out if I’m encouraging the right behavior at the right time. He walked up to me many times, pushing me ever so slightly or hitting me with the lightest of touches. He would say each time, “we don’t hit”, wanting me to react to his actions. This is where it’s hard. I can’t react because that encourages him. I can’t ignore him because this frustrates him and causes different emotions to go spiraling out of control. And I certainly can’t cry, scream with him, or stop my overthinking. Then when I didn’t think my emotions could be anymore rollercoastery the amazing happened. I was going to get him ready for bed and then paint later, but I decided to go ahead and paint. He walked up to me as I was painting and he said, “you’re painting a turtle”. I was thrilled with the connection and that he knew what I was painting. My happiness soared. I’m beyond thankful for his words and progress. Celebrate your victories no matter how big or small they are. Remember they are important. And so are you. Smiles to all and donut daze!
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