Austin - Talking Time

I have briefly mentioned a few times that Austin qualified for speech therapy services through Alpine School District due to an articulation delay. He's been attending a class once a week called Talking Time and I decided that I should probably do a quick update before the end of the year. 

Austin, I want you to know that I love you and that I'm incredibly proud of the effort that you are making in order to do something that is so easy for other people and so very difficult for you. You enjoy going to Talking Time, mostly because you enjoy the craft so much, but I think that you're starting to get more and more frustrated with how many people can't understand you - and I think that you know that this class is supposed to help with that. I enjoy going to Talking Time with you, mostly because it's one hour each week that I get to spend just with you. That one-on-one time is very special to me. 

For Christmas this year, they had "Mrs. Claus" come in and read some special things about you before giving you a small gift. It was fun, even if you weren't sure what to think about the whole Santa Claus thing. 

Learning to articulate can be frustrating for you and it breaks my heart to watch you trying so hard with so little progress. But I believe in you. I believe that you'll be able to overcome this obstacle in your life. You are smart, capable, kind, and willing to listen. I'm your biggest cheerleader and I always will be. I love you, Austin Scott Peaden.