We moved into a new house about a month ago and so far it has been an amazing experience. Our neighbors have been so welcoming and we know most of the people on our street already and already feel like we have been here for a year instead of a month. Already, we were to a neighbor's house for a BBQ and to a birthday party for a couple of the children on our block. Most evenings are spent outside with the many children playing and laughing and the adults chatting nearby.
All this is great. Really. But, for me it gets better. As the mom of a child with significant physical and communication challenges I will tell you that the most amazing thing about our new neighbors is their immediate acceptance of Emma and they way they include her. The adults always stop to talk with Emma even though she doesn't talk back. They are taking the time to learn her subtle communication clues - like how she smiles for yes. The children are always happy to have Emma play with them and don't mind that playing with her usually means that they will have an extra adult around to help her move. They love that she can ride her bicycle with them, that she has a wagon they can pull her around in, and that she laughs at all their jokes and cheers in her loud vocalizations for all the shows they put on. Pretty much, Emma just fits in - just like her older sister. And this Mama doesn't take that for granted at all!
I was so worried about our move. There are still things that we are sorting out - like our health insurance and school placement - that, once in place, will have me breathing easier. But, I know that we found a perfect place for our family for right now and am so thankful
I'm so happy for you Kristina. It's wonderful that you are part of a community that shows they care.
ReplyDeleteThat is so awesome!! I am so glad that you have a neighborhood that is very supportive in making Emma and your family feel welcomed. It can be very emotional moving or even going somewhere for the first time just wondering if they will accept your child. You are a very awesome parent for including her in activities and letting her enjoy things like outside play just like the other children. Great story!!!!
ReplyDeleteWe had the exact same experience last year when we moved to Texas from Indiana. It was such a great feeling to have such a positive and accepting neighborhood. Glad you had the same!
ReplyDeleteLadies - Thanks so much for the support and comments! The decision to make the move was so hard and, now that we are here, one of the best decisions we have made in a long time. Moving states was/is a big deal and we hope that we won't be doing that again anytime soon. I think we are here to stay!
ReplyDeleteTaryn - So glad yo had the same experience. Really, it makes me want to cry each time I realize how accepted and welcomed we are. Such an amazing gift we've been given to have our daughter and to have a place that is accepting of our entire family!