Change, Changes and More Changing

 Some things never change...

like Ethan's love of being in the water,

on top of "Liberty",

or at the piano.

But, if I had to sum up the last 8 months, the title to this blog post would do it: change.

First of all, Ethan is turning into a young man right before my eyes! And, he is on a growth spurt, for sure! I just took his measurements: 76 pounds, and 5 feet tall!  It's about time for our annual visit to Dr.Kelfer, the neurologist. In spite of the Summer heat making its way into our home, he has been seizure-free!
(not including the frequent "happy spells", which are mostly brought on by sensory issues)

  

Then, we acquired the long-awaited TAOS walker (see previous post).

                                                         

Unfortunately, due to my own weakness and chronic pain, the weather, the lack of space in our home, and the arrival of Antoine, we haven't made much use of it yet. I am determined that that will change!
 

Yes, our biggest change has been the addition of our grandson, Antoine, to our household. I was concerned that this would have a negative, disruptive impact on Ethan; but, his tolerance of Antoine's 2-year-old antics and noise-making is nothing less than a miracle! In fact, they seem to have a very special relationship that I feel has already benefited both of them, equally.  Antoine is unusually gentle and considerate of Ethan's needs, trying to lift him up when he falls over, bringing him toys, visiting him in his bed, or on his tall chair. It is nothing less than precious.

After a year of making two, 2-hour round trips per week to Hope Therapy in Waco, for speech, occupational therapy and physical therapy, we are once again stuck at home. We have begun the process of re-applying for Medicaid (much as we would rather not!); and, at the same time, looking into bringing therapists into our home. So, there's the possibility of more changes. :-)

Now, just for fun, I must tell you a little story, which reflects Ethan's intellect, as well as his sense of humor...

 

We have been using "YES" and "NO" cards to aid Ethan in making choices and answering questions. Just as I finished feeding him, and before Micah took him from me to stretch him and place him in his chair, Micah held up the "yes/no" cards for Ethan to see. He then asked him, "Do you love me?"  The immediate response was a hearty chuckle, followed by a deliberate swipe at the "NO" card...  
Of course, we all know that Ethan loves Micah, and Micah loves Ethan...after all, he's the one who generally takes him to the bathroom, and carries him from bed to chair, etc.  That's why it gave us all a good laugh...to see him obviously make a joke at his brother's expense, just as any 13 year old boy would do.