Cole

I have been sitting here doing homework with Cole which is a real challenge. He is very smart but you have to make him write down his answers and then coax him to move on to the next problem. He can tell me all the answers, he just doesn't want to take the time to write them down. One worksheet that should take 10 minutes ends up taking 30 to 40 - and that is only if you are sitting right beside him. If you leave him alone, it might never get done! I should not complain because with Cole, we have come so far. There was a time when I was told by his kindergarten teacher that he would never do well in school because of his behavior. Cole ended up being diagnosed with ADHD and after we figured out how we could help him, he has been in the top of his class for the past 3 years.

Most people don't realize that there is also a Juvenile form of HD. It is not as common but it does happen. I have read several heart breaking stories about people who are taking care of a spouse with HD and one or more children with it also. The sad thing about juvenile HD is that it progresses much quicker. I have also read stories from HD patients watching their own children die with the disease. I cannot imagine the horror or the guilt! Obviously I worry about this with my own children, especially when Shelby falls all the time - she obviously inherited my grace that I had long before HD! I also worry about Cole because often times ADHD is misdiagnosed in kids with juvenile HD. I do not let myself think about it often because it would drive me crazy. I know that they are both healthy and fine and I am very thankful for that. My heart does break for those parents who can't say that.

Cole has always had the sweetest heart and he loves people without condition - especially his mommy! But when it comes to following directions or listening, he is a challenge. I am thankful that we have some control over it now and pray that it continues. For now, I try to enjoy every day with him. He is such a sweet boy and he's so much fun. And he still likes for me to be around which I know won't last, but I'm going to enjoy it while I can!

Tonight I am thankful for my little boy who has his mama's heart wrapped around his fingers.