Our Journey Continues

If you have been reading my blog for a while, you know that Camden was diagnosed with Autism last year.  I never expected that.  Then again, who expects something like that would happen to their child?  Since we felt that things may have been easier for Cam if we had known sooner, we decided to have Ella evaluated just to be on the safe side.  We noticed a few concerns with her behavior, but not as obvious as with Camden.  Well, Thursday Jeromy and I were on our way to Baton Rouge to receive the results of her evaluation.  We talked a little about what we thought it might be.  Probably nothing, a social delay maybe.

We were handed the report.  I read the words "Autistic Disorder" on the third page.  I felt a lump in my throat, but at the same time it didn't really sink in.  My baby girl?  My ballerina princess?  A little ham around her family, but definitely a hermit outside of her comfort zone.  On the way home, as we drove in the rain on the interstate, Jeromy and I agreed that we were surprised at her diagnosis.  I think we just didn't want to think of it as a possibility.  Honestly, I can see why she meets criteria for the diagnosis.  You just excuse away a lot of it - especially after hearing the same remarks from family and friends repeatedly (albeit well-intentioned):  "It's probably modeled behavior from Camden", "she's just shy... she will grow out of it", "all kids are picky eaters", "lots of kids do that."

There is one thing we do know.  We are extremely blessed at how mild the Autism is in our children.  Therapy has done wonders for Camden in the past year.  Amazing difference!  This time last year I would be in tears before lunch time almost every day, just feeling completely overwhelmed by taking care of him - not to mention taking care of a newborn and a 2-year-old.  I thank God for helping us through the past year, and it helps me breathe a little easier to know that things can be even easier a year from now.  I also thank God for giving me these amazing kids.  Aside from easing some of their difficulties, I would not change them for anything.  If you ask me, the world needs more people like them.  Honest, unique, and so full of love.  :)

Here are a few photos of us from the past few days...

Ella relaxing on the sofa this morning

Camden in the car on the way to church

Maya playing peek-a-boo with me

Jeromy watching the Super Bowl

Me being silly with Camden (who was taking pictures of me)

My family = pure joy

Comments

[Brandi]

I know we have already discussed this but your children are remarkable, smart, loveing and very very squishy! :D Plus they have a very dedicated mother who will do anything in her power to help them succed in life. Your awesome and in my prayers as always... Love you!

[Toni]

my heart goes out to you laura. you are such a strong person and you are doing EVERYTHING you can for your babies. all of them! i'm sorry to hear her diagnosis however you caught it alot earlier than many and i know you will find the best treatments for her as well. Camden is getting soooo big. love the longer hair. they all have grown so much. you are a great mommy!

[Maddy]

A truly lovely family all around. It's amazing the difference that a year can make.
Best wishes

[Kasie@~The Art of Life~]

(((Hugs!)))
You have a precious family Laura,
and they are so blessed to have a Momma like you. :) No matter what ups and downs the journey may have, I know that God is with you, gently leading the way.

[Judi]

((hugs))
You are a wonderful mother Laura. I know that you will get through these obsticles just fine. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. :)

Love ya,
Judi

[Tessie]

You have a beautiful family Laura! Each of your children are unique. They are "fearfully and wonderfully made" :) You are right..you are very blessed.

God Bless! :)
Tessie

[Pam]

Laura,

Wow, on getting a 2nd diagnosis. You are really blessed though. You were chosen to raise special children because you are such a special mom. Kyles autism/aspegers is on the mild side and he is thriving in a regular class in 3rd grade. I have no doubts that your kids will thrive as well. Finding out while they are so young is a godsend.. As you know from Camden early intervention is such a good thing. All 3 of our children are so beautiful!

[Telah]

Laura, You do have such a precious family. I admire so much about you and the way you spend so much quality time with your children. I have 4 now and know that it will be so much harder for me to do that. I hope I can do at least half of what you do!

[Alissa]

Sorry it took me so long to respond...but I know that your children are amazing and they have an amazing mother doing everything she can for them. ((hugs)))