J's Diagnosis

(I picked this picture in spite of the dirt that he enjoyed throwing all over his head, not because of it :) )
It's official - Asperger's, a mild form of autism characterized by social awkwardness and obsessive interests (sea creatures, in J's case). It's a relief to know, on many levels.

We need to see the developmental pediatrician on post to get enrolled in EFMP (Exceptional Family Members Program). We need to call the local school system about a full evaluation, though I don't know how that all works with homeschooling.

I talked with a long-time friend of mine who is a pediatric occupational therapist. She works mostly with autistic children and reminded me of several things:

1. God knows what He's doing and has great plans for J.
2. Hubby and I are Judah's best teachers and therapists since we know him best and love him most.
3. Good therapists will be a great help in showing us issues we don't see and giving us strategies to help him overcome obstacles.

It's not hard or overwhelming to think about these things, just different. We're ready and willing to do whatever it takes to give J a good education (spiritually, academically, socially, etc) and the same shot in life we're going to give his younger sisters. It's not going to be bad or burdensome, this new journey, just different...and very, very rewarding, I have the feeling.

Sooooo....here we go!