Friday, November 25, 2011

halloween...a long time coming.

Yes, it's taken me this long to get back blogging.  After doing the 31 for 21, I needed a break.  Also both Maya and I have been struggling with sickness.  Off and on we have been sick for over a month.  It sucks!  Snotty noses, sore throats, coughs, bronchitis....it hasn't been fun. I think we are both finally on the mend. 

Anyway I wanted to post photos from our Halloween.  Every year is an adventure when it comes to this holiday.  Now that I have a little more understanding about Maya's sensory needs, I can better deal with meltdowns.  But before the trick or treating started Maya's playmates from our mommies group decided that we would have a little get together.  I have to say that this was the highlight of the day for us.

This year I asked Maya's respite / habilitation provider to come along with us.  Honestly Maya just adores her.  Christina is an energetic college student who has years of experience working with children with special needs.  In short, I get the feeling that Maya and Christina are almost like sisters.  They just get along so well.  I am so grateful that she has come into our lives.

At the party, Maya had a great time playing in the backyard with the other kids.  There was even a pinata and pizza dinner. I was really impressed with Maya's participation in swinging at the pinata.  To top it off she even ate a whole pizza slice.  These are the moments that I just don't take for granted! 

When the sun started to set we all made our way to the neighborhood for trick or treating. On the way to the neighborhood, Christina showed Maya how to sign "trick or treat".  Within a few minutes we hit the first house.  Maya signed "trick or treat" and with that, slowly I think she started to understand what she was supposed to do.  She carried her pumpkin bucket a few times, but usually dropped it after she got the candy. It was cute though and I was really pleased that she was getting the concept.

Unfortunately Maya had a bad fall at one of the entry ways of a home and after that she was pretty much done.  But all in all I think it was a great Halloween night.  Every year it gets better.  I think having the get together before the trick or treating was a great idea.  I could see that as being a new tradition for sure!

Walking to the party with Christina.

Making her way to the backyard.

Getting coaching on how to hit a ball.


Playing soccer with a friend.

Getting ready to hit the pinata.


Hitting the pinata.

Picking up the loot.

The first house.


A happy girl.

After the fall, Maya got a ride.
On our way home.