Most of you may already know that I take care of a child with autism for a living. Well, I say child but in actuality he is a teenager. I don't talk about it often on here, but it has really been an unexpected blessing in my life. I wasn't sure at first if I was even going to apply for this position. I just didn't know if I had it in me... I have never been a patient person, my parents and Matt could corroborate that fact:) However, somehow I have found that somewhere inside me there is patience that knows no boundaries when it comes to this boy. I will forever be amazed at how much he has taught me even though he can't say a word. Anyone who has ever been a part of the life of someone with a developmental disorder will surely know exactly what I am talking about. I have endless respect for this boy's family. I can't imagine what it would be like, but they have such a remarkable outlook on life and a love for him that I wish every child had. Being with him isn't always a walk in the park. There are many nights when I come home with a splitting headache, but I am so happy that this is what I am doing. I think it's a wonderful peak into what motherhood might be like:)
I never call him by his real name; to me his name is Kiddo so that is how I will refer to him. Kiddo and I go to a nearby ranch once a week. It's a therapeutic and rescue ranch and Kiddo adores going there. I am always in such awe at how the horses and ponies (we take care of the pony stables) respond to him. Really all the animals completely ignore me and follow Kiddo everywhere:) I think they can sense that he is special, and somehow they seem to connect with him. It is so fun to watch him with them. He loves them all but I think it's so cute that he has his favorites. Amongst his most favorites is a llama! I couldn't get a good picture of her because she kept getting too close to the camera but I got lots of pictures of our other favorites:)
This is our area. I'm not sure but I believe some of them are miniature horses and not all ponies. They are so cute.
This is one of Kiddo's favorites:)
The beauty of this place is such a treat. It almost makes up for the smell;)
This little guy is my absolute favorite animal there. Isn't he hilarious? He bites your clothes and makes crazy noises. I wish I could take him home with me!
Until next time...
Kiddo sounds like a very sweet soul. You ...my friend have a special God given gift.Kiddo is blessed to have you in his life~
ReplyDeleteSuch great photos and an even better story to share. I agree with Susie, Kiddo is blessed.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post. My youngest of 5, Li'l Bug is my child with Autism. It is high functioning, so he is able to communicate with his speech, but that has only been in the last year and there are times it is still hard to understand. I knew something seemed different from my other children early on...the pediatrician kept telling me every kid is different when they do things...I knew in my heart...I was right. He is so special and I wouldn't change anything about him. He has taught are family so much and we are still all learning together. Without the early intervention he has received...I can only imagine where we would be. I love his teachers and am so very grateful for them to be in our lives. Thank you for what you do...you are making all the difference for this sweet child and his family. God bless you for giving of yourself to help make his life better. Thank you for sharing this and those ponies...adorable!!
ReplyDeleteHugs and love,
Victoria
Ashley, I just love it when you talk about Kiddo. You love him so much. You are both so lucky to have each other. Your proud mom-in-law, Mona
ReplyDeleteWow! What a blessing you are for his family, as they are to you! I have so much admiration for families that are going through things like this and the wonderful people that God brings along side of them to help.
ReplyDeleteThe pictures of the animals and the farm are so peaceful! What a wonderful place to visit.
God bless you and your work. You will be in my prayers,
Joyce
Ashley, It is truely a blessing from God that you have Kiddo in your life and he has you in his. I have seen such a amazing change in your life since Kiddo has been in your life.
ReplyDeleteGod has blessed me with the most gifted and wonderful daughter that a mother could ask for. I love you with all my heart.
I worked with autistic children for years before I had our first daughter. It was the most rewarding "job" I ever had...beside being a mommy, of course. ;) You are a blessing to him and his fam!
ReplyDeleteSmiles,
Rachel