This has been the strangest holiday season for me – I have been sick (with two back-to-back colds) since the day after Thanksgiving, but have somehow managed to not miss the big events we had on the calendar. I am hoping that bodes well for my feeling better before next Thursday!
Last Sunday we attended the annual Christmas party for our local chapter of the Autism Society of America (ASA). It is a wonderful event that keeps getting bigger each year—to the dismay of some of the participants, I am sure. The highlight of the afternoon is always getting to see Santa and Mrs. Claus, including receiving an early Christmas present. (This picture is from last year, but I assure you they haven’t changed a bit. I’m not sure what the kids will do if this particular pair ever retires!)
The kids are always so amazed at how Santa knows exactly what they wanted. The parents are just as amazed by the volunteers who shop for and wrap all those gifts; it is truly a labor of love. Two years ago my in-laws were able to come with us and Grandpa was especially happy to be pronounced fit by Dr. Michael as he tried out his new doctor’s kit.
Although there are lots of different opinions and perspectives among the families in our area about everything from causes to treatments to inclusion and more, it is really a wonderful group of people who pull together to help each other when it is needed. And boy, have I needed that many times over the last four years!
Trish can be found here every Friday in addition to hosting Try This Tuesday. You can also find Trish at her blog, Another Piece of the Puzzle.