The Mini Huge Successes of Luke

Luke has made leaps since school has started. Here are some new things he has started doing since he started school. 

• Saying "Daddy" and actually applying it to Josh. He said "Mommy" in July, but stopped and has started again when school started. Josh and I are in heaven! 
• Holding our hand and staying with us instead of bolting. We have been able to take two hiking trips and let him run and participate with his siblings. 
• Staying close to us when we go out to the park or are in a big open space. He use to bolt all over the place and Josh or I had to stay close to him. I met with Dr. Goldsmith from UNM on Tuesday and talked to her in the plaza of the CDD, Luke entertained himself and ran around the table while we talked. Two months ago he would have run away. 
• Using sign language appropriately. Especially when he needs more of something. 
• Following two step commands. He now throws his diaper away and puts his dirty clothes in the hamper.  We say, "trash please!" or "dirty clothes, please." and he runs to do his task. When he is done, we all, Izzy and Bear included, cheer and give high fives to him for completing his task.
• Using affection appropriately. He loves giving & receiving kisses now. He says, "Give me kiss." or points to his puckered lips when he wants affection.
• Does not unbuckle his seat belt. Two weeks in a row he and I have driven into ABQ and he has kept his seat belt buckled and in the strap. 
• Gestures for pressure or says "Hug" when he needs help to be regulated.
• He feels pain. Although his pain tolerance is still high, hit and miss, he recognizes the pain when he bumps himself. 
• And the newest.. ENGAGED IN PLAY with someone other than his siblings!! It was brief but he understood the game of chase and had a great time participating.   

All of these new things are still not consistent but it is a glimmer of what he is learning & retaining. My heart is at peace and the weight is slowly lifting off of my shoulders. Our little boy is proving that he is so much more than the diagnosis.

Dear Luke, 

We are so proud of you and all that you have accomplished thus far. Mommy and Daddy are ecstatic about your newest step. Daddy and I were in tears as I bragged to Daddy of your greatness. Daddy said, "In Luke's words, Stupendous! Awesome!" Mommy agrees. We're beaming! We're so blessed to have you.

Always in your corner with cheers, love, hugs, and kisses, 

Mommy & Daddy