A Jackson Milestone!!!

 

On Fast Sunday for the past several months, I'll ask Jackson if he wants to bear his testimony.  He ALWAYS looks down, shakes his head, scowls a bit, and says no.  Izzy on the other hand, wants to bear her testimony EVERY Fast Sunday.  :)

Getting up in front of the entire congregation is difficult and usually out of the question - especially for something like a testimony.  We can barely get him to do it for Family Home Evening.

Today was Fast Sunday.  When the testimony portion of the meeting started, I leaned over to Jackson and asked him if he wanted to bear his testimony.  At first he said no.  I quickly reminded him of his goals.  I didn't think this would help him, but I gave it a try.  To my surprise, Jackson JUMPED UP and went to the pulpit.  Yes.  You read that right.  Jackson, our Jackson, the one who doesn't want to talk to you or look you in the eye, jumped up and eagerly went to bear his testimony.  We were all in shock.  Ryan and I looked at each other with such shock. 

Jackson bore a sweet and simple testimony that he knows the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is true and that he knows his Savior is true.  (His words). :)  At the end of his testimony, he had a huge smile on his face and giggled.  He did it!  We were all so proud of him.

We made some changes with medication this weekend.  To say the least... I think we are on the right track.  We are seeing more giggles, more playfulness, more interaction with the kids, etc.  We are not done tweaking, but I hope this is a first of many positive reports.  We love you Jackson!

Lagoon, our tradition....

On Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, we visit graves and give thanks for all of our ancestors who have gone on before us.  They are such an important part of lives and we truly, will never forget them.

Monday.... it's all about Lagoon.  This year was no exception.  Here is a little peek into our day.  It was perfection.  Yummy sandwiches, beautiful salads, family fun, and.... of course scrumptious desserts.  Let's start with those first.... shall we?

Kiptyn had the right idea.  He was supervising the treat table.  I think he loved the popcorn the best.

Jackson was my buddy for a big portion of the day.  He is too big for the kiddie rides and not quite ready for all the "SCARY" rides.  So... he and I hit all the ones he had on his list - the medium rides.  Every year is a little better for him.  In years past, he didn't even want to ride The Bat.  This year, that was his first request.  Jackson has big issues with heights and his need to feel secure and grounded.  To see him love rides like The Bat and Bombora is such a pleasure.  He is doing so well and I think it is only going to improve from here.  His syndrome is not degenerative - we are so fortunate.  With time, practice, and lots of bravery, he will continue to make progress in all aspects of life.... even with things like Lagoon.

I LOVED capturing so many smiles today!

One of our favorite parts of Lagoon day is heading to Pioneer Village for Ice Cream. 

The latest addition.... Baby Jersey.

We had a marvelous day.  Although... by closing time, we were all ready to come home.  I had the kids all take a bath and then promised them I would give them a massage with my magic snake oils. :) :) :)  This is a new little experiment for us.  Don't worry.  I'm not going to invite you to a party.  We are using the oils for our benefit.  But... if you want to try them, you are more than welcome and I can certainly hook you up with a discount.

  MANY of my lovely special needs mom friends have told me how amazing essential oils have been for their children.  We are talking crazy tales of success - every thing from headaches to anxiety, to mood issues, to pain relief.

  I have seen a pattern in my life with Jackson.  Bit by bit, the next piece to the puzzle is laid before me until I connect the dots.  Well... this happened for me again last month with the oils.  Months of conversations were pieced together and I finally made the leap.

The interesting thing is that the oils have helped everyone else in the family more than they've helped Jackson.  Not because they don't work for him, but that his medication has been working so well that I haven't needed to use the oils.  So far they've helped cure a nasty illness Alexis was battling, Ryan has finally had a good night's sleep after months of insomnia, they've helped upset stomachs, skin challenges :), headaches, and more.  Yes... our snake oils work. :) 

So... after a long day at Lagoon, the kids were lined up for a massage from mom.  Each oil I applied helped a different part of the body and also helped them relax for bed.   

Maybe it helped some.... more than others. :) :) :)

We hope your Memorial Day Weekend was lovely.  We are so blessed to have such amazing family ties - on both sides of our family.  May we continue to strengthen our bonds during the coming year!