Dear Addie,
This past holiday weekend we wasted no time grabbing big sister Clara from school and heading straight to our happy place for some good OTOD family fun.
OBX here we come!
Although it's only been a few weeks, we have missed Clara so much that having us all together again was truly a delight. Not knowing if you had truly grasped the concept of our recent family dynamic change, it was apparent you had when your mood changed from calm and quiet, to joyfully stimming, flashing your infectious smile at first sight of her before bouncing off to play showing just how excited you were she was there. No words needed, all was right in your world again. While we soaked up all the warmth and love of being a party of five again, there was an obvious somber void without our Ruby girl, who loved her walks to the beach and letting the ocean waves crash against her—Finn, not so much. Don't worry, Finn. We'll make a beach beagle out of you yet. But I digress.
The weekend was filled with lots of home-cooked meals that Clara missed being away at school eating dining hall food every day, long talks catching up on all the happenings for her and us, a trip to the aquarium of course, and lots of beach time - where there was even a surfing competition going on! So cool!
On Saturday we were sitting on the beach, taking a little break from the waves and an airplane with a banner attached had flown by. I of course wasted no time playing our favorite (ok who am I kidding you're probably SO over it and annoyed by it so it's "My" favorite) "what's this/that" game. Pointing up to the sky and with the airplane being incredibly loud, I asked you "What's that Addie?" thinking you would say "An airplane" You looked up, looked back at me, looked up again and then said "A kite." I couldn't help but laugh and think, if that doesn't sum up this journey, I don't know what does. Expect the unexpected right?! And seeing I don't remember ever explaining to you what a "banner" is - "kite," was right on point, so bravo!
"Autistic people see the world in a unique way that's different from everyone else, and that's something to embrace." - Chris Bonnello
Addie we are in the same world, with the blessing of seeing it through different lenses. Thanks for that beautiful reminder.
This weekend we were able to enjoy being all together again and it was absolutely amazing.
I love you.
Mom
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