I'm Back!

First I would like to laugh at the fact that auto correct tried to change "I'm back!" Into "I'm Bacon!"

It has been a long, busy year. In March we had Peanut evaluated by early intervention and she started speech once a week. We ended Sweet Pea's food trials as his list of allergies grew. We moved. And Peanut was recently diagnosed with autism. Yes, it has been A very long year.

We have stopped introducing  new foods until we see the allergist. we are hoping a specialist will be able to be of more assistance since he has so many issues. As of now Sweet Pea is allergic to Cow's Milk Protein which is included in all Milk By-Product. (Cheese, yogurt, Butter, etc.), Soy Bean Protein which is included in all soy products with an exception of some oils. Pears, Almonds, Peas, Rice and has a sensitivity to Sweet Potatoes.

Peanut started speech back in May and she has come a long way. We are all very proud of her progress and she is gaining words and phrases almost daily now. I was very sad to loose our therapist, Maggie days before Christmas. she really connected with Peanut and Peanut loved their sessions. Her agency closed so we'll be starting with someone new in early January.

Late November we finally Peanut's autism evaluation with the developmental pediatrician. she was diagnosed with classic autism. It was a bit of a shock because we knew something was off but a small part of me was hoping they would say she was just quirky. After it sunk in I can see why the diagnosis was made and a lot of odd things in the past make a lot more sense. I really don't feel like the diagnosis changes anything, she's still our same sweet Peanut. I feel like we have a better understanding of what is going on, but I don't see anything to "cure" or "fix" because she's amazing. I feel like we have more responsibility and we may have a few challenges. I have found it is difficult because not everyone accepts or believes her diagnosis. I can understand why, when we are out and about she's usually having a good day. But when she has her bad days look out! She is affectionate, she does make some eye contact, she even is starting to talk more. I love that no one wants to put a label on her. I think maybe people think they are being supportive when they try to downplay it or say that maybe the doctors are wrong and she is just delayed, but it really is aggravating. We need support but it is difficult to feel supported if no one acknowledges or accepts her condition

That's the big stuff from the year. Now I plan to keep better track of things and post more often lol