We had a really rough night, Christmas Eve. But in spite of that, we enjoyed today, because we chose what the boys needed- to just be home and take things slowly at the boys' pace. It's been difficult for us to say no to local family with expectations, especially for Daddy. It's also been difficult to let go of our own expectations. It took a while to realize we were expecting things that were meaningless and actually harmful considering their condition... such expectations are ingrained from past familial relationships. But as we continue to let go of those expectations, it becomes more and more clear that it's what the boys need, and what we need as a family.
We started with their stockings.
These globe thingies are a calming tool. Hopefully they aren't broken very soon, because they are a bit difficult to get.
Then we stopped for food and medicine. This was a good break.
This was the item I referred to that they had asked for. When I mentioned it first to their dad, he expressed concern that it was a fleeting desire. But after paying attention the next time we were at pcmc, where they have one in neurology, he could see they genuinely wanted one.
So we had them close their eyes and brought out the kitchen, already put together.
They played with this for over an hour before asking to move on.
Oh how I've missed this smile.
Taking orders. :)
It was so fun to watch them pretend. You see, they didn't used to do this and it was like pulling teeth trying to get them to. So this may seem like something they should be past, but it's right where they need to be. ;)
We moved it all to the other room and gave them some time to wind down before moving on again.
Then we pulled out the gifts that had been left by the elves. We let go of the expectation that they look for their name, or that it be done in any organized fashion, we just let them open at will and then went through everything. Since all their stuff is shared anyway, it really isn't necessary.
It also didn't take them long to tire of it. In the past they haven't made it past 2 or 3 gifts without either a meltdown or zoning out from too many seizures. Today, Aidan made it to 4. Jace, I'm not sure. Damon didn't even want to.
Two different nerf guns. Jace was thrilled. lol
We cleaned it all up, just playing with the airplane and nerf guns and then let them rest for a bit.
Once they were ready, we had them close their eyes again.
Jace knew what it was right away. Aidan and Damon- it took several seconds.
The wii, one of their worker's parents had given them. I believe the worker also added another controller.
We added the balance board. Which was really expensive on our budget, but totally worth it...
It's safe to say that both were a huge hit.
Aidan didn't mind about the train set. We'll still keep looking... his birthday is coming up. :)
Lunch was honey maple ham, baked potatoes, creamed corn, and mini oreo cheesecakes.
Daddy's boss provided the ham.
Kept catching them back at the kitchen throughout the day.
The last night the young men from church stopped by, they left an envelope with two letters baring their testimony of Christ, His atonement and love, and thanking our boys for the opportunity to serve. I wonder if any of the elves have any idea how much they helped us get through this last little while... I can't even come up with the words, just tears.
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