My Buddy & Me

 

Ayden and I spend a lot of time together, and because he's still only post-Glenn (one more surgery to go!), most of that time is one-on-one. We occasionally go to run errands (he's famous at Target and Wolf Camera) or to eat at restaurants (everyone knows him at Fulin's, Moe's, and Jersey Mike's), and, of course, he has therapy two or three times a week. Due to Ayden's feeding and nap schedule, as well as the constraints placed for his health safety, a considerable amount of our hours together are spent at home. We stack blocks and cups, tease each other with insect finger puppets, create artwork, play ball, roll cars, dance, sings songs (yes, he sings!), and make music (he likes to drum, shake things, or play the piano).

Taking off the marker cap and putting it back on are the best parts about coloring!

I try a lot of things with both hands, but I'm probably left-handed.

If weather and schedule permit, we try to get outside. Ayden still enjoys strolls (or races!) in his red car. He soaks in the environment as he observes every car, every person, every blade of grass. Nothing gets past this child! (On one particular day, Ayden was obsessed with making a kissy face in almost every picture. See below.)

Howling at the sun?!?!

Ayden's feeding therapist convinced me that I needed to get Ayden in a swing. So, armed with Clorox wipes, we went to the local park, and Ayden got to swing for the first time. He smiled, and laughed, and talked the entire time! He also watched the few other children present on such a cloudy day.

Oh! Now I get this thing! Yippee!

Sometimes we get visitors to keep us company. Today Ms. Callie came to play. She filled me in on the goings on of her precious children. She loved on Ayden as well. They invented a fabulous counting game.

Ayden also does an excellent job playing independently. If he needs my attention, he'll come get me with arms outstretched. He doesn't usually want me for very long, just long enough to feel that I am with him. One of his favorite things to do by himself is to pull out all of his toddler books and briefly peruse them.

Though some days are naturally more difficult than others, I try to never lose sight of how blessed I am to be so much a part of Ayden's growth and development. I get to be included in his miracle life on a daily basis. I am there to comfort the sadness and to relish the laughter. I am able to teach and to nurture but mostly just to love and be loved. I get to be Ayden's mother.

Play-Doh! (Best when licked!)