I would post pictures but I don't have any. When we got there, our camera said, "Change battery pack." I used my phone the whole time but apparently it was not working. So, I had no pictures. I would like credit, though, because I did attempt to take them and document the event.
Thank you, again, for supporting us. We are so grateful.
Jonathan turned six yesterday. We had his birthday party at a local ice cream shop with his classmates and his friend, Molly. When I get access to those pictures, I will post them. Jonathan sat on the bench and ate his ice cream. He ate his cupcakes (more than one, yes). We sang to him and he opened his gifts - all without getting overwhelmed. This is the first time I would say that he was excited about his birthday and really seemed to understand the logistics and the fact that he was the recipient. I would say that his party was a success.
I am so grateful for Jonathan's classmates. They are kind to him and very loving as well as accepting. I sent an email to my fellow kindergartener parents at the beginning of the year to give them a "heads up" about Jonathan. I also gave points on how to explain his diagnosis to their kids. I cannot tell you how wonderful this community has been - not only the adults but also the kids. The parents obviously have worked hard to help their kids understand Jonathan and their children have been incredibly receptive. What an answer to prayer. Jonathan is often greeted with, "Hey, Jono!" and I even heard another teacher call him that. I am relieved and appreciative.
Tonight, I was bathing Jonathan and Joel. The water was running out of the tub and they were finishing up. Jono was sitting up and Joel was on his tummy looking up at Jono. Joel, with a look of disgust on his face, said, "Oooh! Yucky boogers!" This must be what he hears from me when I try to discourage him from picking his nose. Never had a booger picker until now.
Here are some pictures...
Joel's first day of school. He goes to Early Arts and his teachers are
Ms. Tracey and Ms. Joanie. Whenever we talked about school he always said,
"Yes, Ms. Tracey and Ms. Joanie." I thought he thought their names were
his school name. I asked him what the name of his school was and he said, "Eary Arsss."
Jonathan with his soccer gear on. He, like Jackson, much preferred
either the sidelines or the playground. It was a constant time of
bargaining. Jonathan's coach and teammates were very encouraging and
rolled with it. One little guy, Jack, would say to Jono, "Jonathan, I know you
can do it!" It has been neat to see these little people rise to the challenge of Jonathan.
Jonathan is making his own pb&j.
Joel quite distressed.
I rolled Jack in toilet paper for Halloween. He did not like the result.
Jamie took over and even spray painted him with brown to make him look old.
Jono did not want to go trick or treating. Once he learned he had to dress
up to get candy, he immediately popped up and got his pirate outfit on.
It was neat. Joel took the lead, running up to houses saying, "Come on, Johnny!"
The Mummy running around to get candy, leaving a toilet paper trail.
The Mummy quickly tired of his costume and transformed into a Jedi Warrior.
Counting their loot.
Team picture. Jono is not happy.
I was gone on a trip to NC last weekend to help host a baby shower for my sister. I came
back Sunday morning. While Jamie was helping the others get ready, Joel decided to paint.
Jono's field trip to Baker's Farm. He did not perk up until after lunch.
Cold and not having fun.
Jonathan with his sweet friend, Megan.
He got to pick his own pumpkin and went small.
He kept saying, "Happy Halloween!" He has come so far!
This is Jono's betrothed, Molly.:)
Sweet friend, Nicholas. He tolerates a lot from Jono - including a pop to the face.
Jono's first birthday gifts from Grammie, Grandpa, Aunt Betsy, and Uncle Bryan.
