Challenges

Something else on my mind today--challenges with my children. Both of my beautiful daughters have special needs (Sophia is on the autism spectrum, and Anneliese is motor delayed and non-verbal) and some days get to be quite trying. Over Christmas break, Sophia did really well, all the Christmas excitement didn't overstimulate her. Our family was all down with strep throat, but overall behavior was fine. David was home from work all that week as well. Well, he went back to work on January 2nd (Sophie didn't go back to preschool until yesterday) and all Hades broke loose. Crying, whining, wanting daddy. Waking up at 4:00am. Staying up! The change in schedule between Christmas break and last week was too much for her.

Then there is LeeLee. She is so frustrated that she can't communicate! And I am getting frustrated for her, and sometimes at her. She refuses to initiate her desires to us, even though she has the signs to tell us. She breaks down crying when pushed, even though we know she can do it, as she will repeat it if we sign first. Anneliese seems at times like she wants to stay a baby with us taking care of all her needs, yet shows that three year stubborn streak when things don't go her way.

I love these kids so much, and David and I continue to meet the challenges raised and celebrate the triumphs. Sophia is brilliant, and some of her leaps of language and music make her seem 4 going on 14. Anneliese manages to turn on the cute at will, and stay the sweetest little stink monkey in 5 counties.