New stuff...

Well...there are lots of new "happenings" in Julia's world!

We are gearing up for Julia's transition meeting and subsequent IEP meeting. Although I feel confident that she will receive the services that she needs there is still that "knot in the pit of your stomach" feeling that I get when I think about this meeting. All of Julia's professionals have gone above and beyond to make her transition a positive occasion and for that I am very thankful. So...on October 19 we will meet with the EGUSD and see what happens! I know that thus far every door that has opened for Julia has been right...and the doors that have closed have been replaced by better things. I fully believe that God's hand is on Julia and that He cares about her and all that happens to her. I take comfort in this!

On November 1 Julia is scheduled to have eye surgery to correct her lateral strabismus. This is another biggie...and once again we rest in the knowledge that God is in control of the circumstances! Hopefully after this surgery Julia's improved vision will translate into improved performance in all skill areas.

Julia's progress is remarkable...and we are so thankful! Her most recent evaluations reveal slow but steady gains in all areas. Communication in particular has really taken off...the other morning I got Julia up with the words "Are you Mama's girl?" She looked at me for a minute and then said (very clearly) "Mama baybee!" I asked her "You are Mama's baby?" and she said again "Mama baybee!" Needless to say it made my day! The signs for "Please" and "Thank you" are now fluid and automatic...she is a polite little girl!

Coming up on Julia's 3rd birthday (December 10) has caused me to stop and take a close look at her...in a way that I don't often have time to do. I have spent much time lately pondering all the progress she has made...the developments from being a helpless infant who couldn't roll over or raise her arms off the floor to play with toys dangling from a gym at 7 months to a little girl who climbs stairs, crawls on and off the couch, chairs, beds and pews at church and can walk in her walker for 20 yards. This is nothing short of amazing and I am so excited to see all that she is accomplishing. I am also quick to note that we didn't teach her all of this ourselves...although our love and desire to help Julia is unlimited, our knowledge and ability to help her is limited. Thanks to the many great people...therapists, doctors, other parents, friends, and supporters who help to fill the many gaps!

Till next time...