A Perfect Ten

Noah celebrated another birthday in July. It seems like it was just yesterday when the doctor laid him on my belly, but it was ten years ago. I can't believe it has been that long. He sure has grown.

July was a month of many achievements for Noah. He played on one of the Kohler Baseball teams, he went to Cub scout camp with Brian for three nights, and he transitioned from intensive in-home ABA therapy to post intensive in-home therapy. Whew.....it was a whirlwind of a month for us.

Kohler is a small town, with a small town atmosphere. Everyone knows everyone, and everyone knows Noah. While on the baseball team, Noah was I believe just about the best bench warmer I have ever seen (being his mother that is how I would naturally feel, no?). On Brian's cue, Noah would high-five his teammates and cheer for his friends and other players throughout the game. During the fifth inning, Noah would get his chance to bat. Whereas the other boys successfully swung at the fast pitches from the opposing team, Noah was allowed to swing at his coach's gently pitched balls. All of his teammates, the parents and fans in the stands, and even the coach's from the opposing team would cheer Noah on as he hit the ball and ran to his base. The proud grin on his face always made my evening every Tuesday and Thursday this summer. His run never counted on the score board, but in my heart and Noah's heart, that run meant so much more than a number. He felt a sense of belonging, an acceptance that doesn't always come easy for children like Noah. We truly are very blessed to reside in this community.

Noah also did extremely well while at Cub scout Camp. He was a Bear Cub, and will now be a Webelos this coming school year. Because of the way the camp organized the meals, it was almost impossible for Noah to stay on his gluten-free, casein-free diet. Brian and I made a decision to allow Noah the remainder of July to eat without restrictions. It is now mid August and we have yet to reintroduce the diet again. I, Brian, the therapists, our family members, and our friends have not seen any difference in Noah's behavior, attention, or sleep. Meals have been easier for me, grocery shopping is more economical, and going out to eat has once again become an option for the family. Noah has also been happier with his food selections! We may consider going back on the diet in the future, but for now Noah seems fine without it.

Actually....everything right now seems "fine" in the life of Noah. :)