I woke up this morning and had to write down my thoughts about our last day in 2007. Then I decided to find a sketch and turn my journaling into a scrapbook page.
I choose SBSC121 and SBDD07 AnnaLouise's challenge: to use her sketch (121) and do some stamping on your page.
The journaling is going in a pocket on the back of the page.
Diagnosis Autism:
On the last day of 2007 we heard the words we already knew to be true in our hearts: “Your son has Autism” Whew…it still broke my heart a little to hear the words… but we had already accepted it. It has been an emotionally exhausting 5 months. Long wait times for evaluations at the school and even longer wait times to see doctors. I have learned so many things in the past few months. For one, I couldn’t have been born to a more supportive Mother. She was the first to tell me she didn’t think I was overreacting, that I was onto something and to follow my gut. Even from 1,500 miles away she has been an amazing support. My sister and I have become closer and I am so grateful to her for her phone calls and emails. She always makes me laugh and now that we have decided to move to "back home" I look forward to being able to drop by her house… and drop off Rocco! Both our families have been supportive and I know we are blessed to have them in our lives. For the second time in my life I have learned the real meaning of the word “friendship” and just how special it is to have friends who really listen with their hearts and let you know they love you, your doing a good job, you are a good mom, they want to be in your son’s life and they will do what they can to help you and support you. I hope to someday repay the favor and let them know just how special they are to me. I realized again I made the right choice when I married Giancarlo. From the day I made him sit down and watch Oprah’s show with Jenny McCarthy (not his favorite thing to do!) we have been on the same page and he has been there when I needed him most. I know how rare that is and I am so grateful that even though we are far away from family and friends we have each other. I understand Rocco so much more and am determined to help him any way I can. Our lives have forever been altered and I’ve had to let go of my dreams. I had to grieve for the son that I thought I had. It has not been easy and I know that we have started down a long and difficult path. We have learned to celebrate the small miracles each day and our joy at each new skill is immeasurable. I love Jenny’s response when she was questioned about her son’s lack of affection. “He IS Love” She couldn’t have said it any better and it’s right on the money. Rocco may not be the most cuddly kid but I FEEL his love. It’s in his smile, his bright blue eyes, his laughter, his noise, his silliness, and his happiness. When I really get down to the bottom of all my hopes and dreams for him it is that I really hope he is happy in his life. Whatever he becomes I hope he is a happy one.
"You are never given a wish without also being given the power to make it true. You may have to work for it, however." Richard Bach
I plan to work hard for my wishes and his too.
Date: Tuesday, January 1, 2008 GMT Views: 2553
Favorited:13
Registered: March 11, 2005 Location: Home of the Colts - Indianapolis! Posts: 2831
Tue, Jan 01, 2008 @ 12:33 PM
I love the layout - and then I read your story. WOW. Isn't this what its all about ~ to share your stories. Beautiful page, beautiful son, beautiful mom. TFS!
Registered: December 22, 2004 Location: Wisconsin Posts: 10438
Tue, Jan 01, 2008 @ 12:54 PM
Kim, what a gorgeous page, wonderful journaling, and such a sweet photo of your precious son. I am thinking and praying for the best in 2008 for you and your family! {{{hugs}}}
Registered: March 4, 2006 Location: Utah Posts: 51
Tue, Jan 01, 2008 @ 5:04 PM
This is great! What a reselient spirit you are! Your boy is adorable! Looks like love to me. I love the way you incorporated the lay out. Perfect with your hearts.
Registered: April 30, 2006 Location: Iowa Posts: 6
Tue, Jan 01, 2008 @ 5:34 PM
Your page is so beautiful! I too had to let go of my dreams for my daughter when she was diagnosed 14 years ago. You as a family will face many challenges but new dreams will come. Your son will amaze you with each new accomplishment just as my daughter has amazed me. Keep your chin up! Janie