Friday, December 21, 2012

Holiday Gatherings, Shopping and all things crazy during this season.

As many of you know, holidays are quite difficult for Liam. Since he lost all language 3 1/2 years ago and developed complex sensory processing issues as well as anxiety, most events are too much for him.
To minimize his stress level we take him to events that are easy to leave, bring extra snacks, blankets, iPad, art supplies and lotion to give mini massages. As soon as either Patrick or I see that 'look' on Liam's face, we dash him out to the car where all of his comforts are waiting.
One of us stays with him, the other socializes and plays a bit of defense when well intended people want to come out and check on our overwhelmed kiddo.
We've got it down to a science at this point, which is great because we can get him slowly but surely acclimated to crowds again.

And you know what? It's working! Today, after months and months of easing Liam in to shopping trips with me, we had success!

Friday afternoon at Costco.
As we turned in I saw how insanely busy it was. Cars were backed up at least twenty deep. Even the fire lane was lined with parked cars. Yikes. This was it. Should I turn around and go home, like I had so many times before? Or should I try to brave the holiday shopping crowds and just watch my little guy closely?
I asked him what he thought. He responded with a cheesy grin. I took that as a 'let's go!' and we parked.

Liam handled the crowds, flickering lights, screaming kids and half hour wait in the checkout line like a pro. He could not have behaved better.

For all intents and purposes, Liam was a typical kid for that shopping trip. Looking forward to many more of these moments with my sweet boy.
Don't give up. Keep fighting for your kids. There is so much hope for their future.
Merry Christmas, Friends.

With Love,
Susie

4 comments:

  1. Have I told you lately how much I love you?!?!?!? You are amazing! I've been in your exact shoes so many times, and I am so proud of Liam right now I just want to high-five someone....anyone! Way to go Liam! You are a rockstar!!!

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    1. Sheri you are such an amazing friend! I hope you know just how much you mean to me. Thank you for the love and encouragement. I'll high five Liam for you. :)

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  2. I am so happy for you!
    Thanks for the encouragement and Merry Christmas to you, Liam and Patrick!
    We will recover our son's with God's help!
    Great blog!
    Isabel

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    1. Thank you, Isabel! Merry Christmas to you and your family. Hope everything goes smoothly for you. :)

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