we couldn't be more happy

Philip and I met with Garrett's IEP  team for the first time since we moved to see if he qualified for services here.  DUH  YEAH, he still does.  He has made leaps and bounds and more leaps since he was  young and we are very very happy with his progress.  That said...we always worry double or triple about him and his progress.  I have to admit, since the move I may have created an ulcer dedicated to him.

Rewind for a minute:  When Garrett was first diagnosed we had meeting after meeting, test after test and lots of tears and questions on my part.  I was trying to fill in Philip while muddling through my own questions.  It was ridiculous, to say the least.  I remember many of those feelings and frustrations.  One in particular stands out.  His very first IEP meeting.  He was 4 -- I was clueless - it was awful.  I remember calling my babysitter to see if I could stay gone a bit longer.  After the meeting I hit Mc Donalds for fries, Taco Bell for a burrito, Burger King for a burger -- and so on(I'm a professional emotional eater:))  I hit every drive through in town, driving aimlessly in between each one...all the while crying.  It was pretty sad......and then the learning and teaching began.

Back to today:  After this IEP -- Philip was there with me....we both left on cloud nine.  Garrett's whole team had nothing but positive to say about him.  In 2nd grade he "graduated" out of Resource Reading, then this year he has "graduated out of OT and Speech...which means less transitions (awful for aspergers kids) and more time in his normal class to learn to follow social cues and regular instruction...yeah!:)  The team stated obvious concerns and ideas to help him -- but overall it was a very positive meeting.  They also filled us in on several of our (ulcer causing) questions regarding Jr. High since he will be going there next year. 

Here's the best part...when we got out of the meeting his teacher came bounding back in the room.  She said "Garrett got chosen for Wildcat of the Week!"  I'm pretty sure we were all more excited than he was.  They were in the office taking pics with the Principal and all that attention was just too much for him...but he made it through.  Philip and I were so proud....SO proud.  His certificate says "Garrett was chosen for his positive attitude.  He always seems to maintain a great attitude in class.  He sets a wonderful example for his peers.  Congratulations Garrett!"

Ahhh-- another pay day.

Don't get me wrong -- I think my ulcer is acting up as I type this -- because he still tends to get more of my worry than anyone/thing else.  But it's times like this that make me feel like "it's all gonna be okay."

We love our Garrett!