a little EXTRA

The grass isn't always greener on the other side of the fence.  It may feel like that at times, but, in reality... Just because the other side of the fence has automatic sprinklers on a timer, doesn't mean the rain and an extra sprinkle of water here and there wont make my grass green.  What I'm trying to say is ... just because others can do things before Lincoln, doesn't mean we should limit what he CAN and CANT do.  Lincoln's potential is NOT less even though it may be different.  The thing about having a little extra chromosome is just that - a little extra.  We need to put in a little extra time and effort to get to where we want - it doesn't just happen with the flick of a switch, or the tick of a timer. As I think back to when Lincoln was a toddler, I am reminded on how things used to be.  He never crawled, he didn't 'do' finger food, he didn't talk, he didn't walk on his first birthday - or his second for that matter. 

But he did sit, and he used sign language, and he did smile, and giggle, and babble, and hug, and kiss, and love and laugh and make everyday awesome.  He had to do extra work to do to the things that just come naturally for others his age.  Things take time, effort, and positive attitudes.  But, with all the extra time, effort, and positivity - look where we are today!!  He walks and runs now, he loves food, he can say 3-6 word sentences, he can count to 10, write his name (with help), and make friends.  I'm overjoyed that God made him so lovable. 

That he doesn't have to work extra hard to make friends.  He has a way with people.  A magnetic personality.  Theres just something about him... I'll tell you he has 2 girlfriends - and one is in grade 5!!!  Everyday I drop him off to school, his 2 (yes... TWO) girlfriends wait for him, walk on the other side of the fence until the gate, and greet him with a hug and a smile.  They sit by the fence and wave to us as we drive by - leaving Lincoln for the day to learn.  Its comforting to know people care for him.  So I say "thank-you."  Thank you to all you who overlook the difference, and look at the similarities.  Lets celebrate the different characteristics of EVERY child. Because Lincoln is so much more alike than different.

he always worked SO hard