Hi Allie, Sorry to say that I missed this first post. With school this year, I am lucky to check this once a week. I have to say that if I didn’t know what was going on, I would feel that you were in control of all facets of your life. What I love is through each of those difficult times you shine so brightly and encourage us around you. I know you are an inspiration to me. Because of you and Jon, I see God’s footsteps beside my own, and I feel such a sense of peace and serenity. I don’t plan to teach next year. I want to follow your lead and be more involved in the church. God puts many angels in our path, and you are mine.

(((Hugs))) dear friend. At 23, we are starting to see some “quirky” behaviors with Jacob. Though we will never get a diagnosis at this age, it definitely changes my approach to how we deal with those behaviors. So glad to see, in previous comments, that you have found a furry companion. Praying that you will see positive results and that your little man adjusts quickly. Praying also for timely and productive appointments with the specialist. What a blessing to have such a great resource nearby! It is definitely a journey that we are on – longer and a bit more challenging than most. Praying that you would sense His guidance and sustaining hand at every step.

Wishing you abundant blessings and joyful hearts during this holiday season.

Dear Ginny, I got teary reading your gracious words late last night. Thank you for the kindness and encouragement. Funny how it all came of soup – definitely unexpected! (I knew I liked soup…) So glad you dropped by and hope you found a soup recipe to fill your pot while you were here!:) My family and I have so much to be thankful for, truly our cups brim with God’s blessings. Thank you for your kind, affirming words re:Hudson. Life with Hudson has many challenges, but he is often the one God uses most to grow and stretch the rest of us. Many thanks for dropping by, and may God bless you and your family. XO

Just love the way you have shared your life with us. May God bless you and your family and give you wisdom and patience in all that you do. Enjoy your lovely home, it is beautiful.

Hi Barbara – I’m so glad you happened on my site. Thank you for your kind message. It’s amazing what a comfort it was to hear from you, and that we’re not alone with this double diagnosis for Hudson. I can imagine the days are long. Something interesting you don’t know, is that my older sister Elisabeth has Down syndrome. Her diagnosis and Hudson’s for Downs are both considered random, not genetic. Go figure, right? 🙂 Anyway, wanted to let you know the good news that we were able to get an appointment for Hudson at the Downs’ clinic at Boston Children’s Hospital at the end of October. Apparently they specialize in working with children who have this double diagnosis of autism and Downs. We’re hoping to learn much, techniques and hopefully local resources to help get us through our days better. Also, we finally found a rescue dog for Hudson. Her name is Chloe, she is a five year old yellow lab rescue dog, very sweet and gentle. We are picking her up tomorrow. I know Hudson won’t welcome her initially, but I’m hoping that in time an attachment will form. Thank you so much for your encouraging words, you are so much further along in all this and so I especially appreciate each word. Thank you. XO