13
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Last week, Simon turned 13.
THIRTEEN.
For real.
This kid.
I've been sharing his stories in this space since he was 2 years old. I've shared stories of challenges and stories of successes because that's what it's all about isn't it?
Celebrating all of it: lessons learned, things overcome and the wonderful joy of being together.
Our own little modern family gathered to celebrate him on his actual birthday at the restaurant of his choice (Twin Dragon for MarFar Chicken) because he is so very loved.
He's not a fan of the signing so much.
But he does love making a wish and blowing out the candles.
And yes, Anna can't wait until it's her birthday in a few weeks.
It was a birthday that featured many new Lego sets because that continues to be one of his main loves (seen above photographing some of his new sets).
He's also really into mysteries and the classic movie Clue. He's spent a good deal of time transcribing the screenplay recently.
On Sunday he had a friend party here at my house.
The plan was to watch Clue, eat pizza and Doritos and Skittles and cake. Because that's what he wanted.
Three boys from his class were able to come - two we've know since kindergarten. They are all in Simon's program at school and it was so, so awesome to have them here and watch them interact and chat and laugh and explain things to each other.
They ended up playing Super Mario on the Wii (all four together at the same time) for a bit in the beginning before starting the movie.
I don't think there are enough words available for me to express how these moments of positive social interaction with peers make my heart sing.
Chris and I stood in the kitchen listening and smiling at each other and commenting in hushed voices about how it was going.
It went really, really well.
Chocolate cake. Standard.
Lego mini-figures were shared.
It was a really good day.
Hey Simon -
You are a really good dude.
No matter what we are always, always on your team and we will love you forever and ever.
I'm so proud to be your Mom.
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60 comments
What a great post. Love the realness and openess of this blog.x
Replies to NatashaP
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Happy Birthday to Simon!
Replies to Monica3B
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Wow! He is 13! How time flies. I hope he had an amazing birthday.
Replies to lucrecer
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Your post made me a little tearful,I'm not sure why. How lucky he is to have a mum who loves and supports him so much!
Replies to anarmchairbythesea
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Love this post and how happy Simon is in it. Happy 13th Birthday Simon! Have enjoyed seeing him grow through your blog each year.
Replies to khowardga
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Your joy for Simon's successes emanates through your writing and photography. I said the other day that I admire you, and this is why too. Your a good mom and it's wonderful how everyone comes together for the kids. I'm really happy for you. Glad it was a beautiful day, for both of you. Michelle t
Replies to mtercha
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Love this post. So neat to watch him grow up and overcome some of your fears and develop friendships.
Replies to kcp_
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I've been reading about this little guy since your scrapbooking layouts in Creative Keepsakes years ago! I remember layouts where he was just a little dude and now he's 13?
Mine turned 10 the other day and I don't know where the time goes!
It's nice to see how he's growing up and making friends. Friends are so important at that age and it's awesome that he found a group of kids that enjoy the same things he does.
Replies to picki56
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Go, Simon, Go!
Replies to scrappychick
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oh Simon.. Happy Birthday, buddy! You're so loved!
Replies to Sasha
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I can't pass this post up without saying "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SIMON!" What a super family you have!
Replies to happytoscrap
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I can't believe I started to follow your blog he was so young and then my son was born and was diagnosed as well. And Simon became something to look for and you Ali for always shining the positive stories about him showed me how to do that with my own Son. He is not yet as high functioning as Simon but he is so loved and so so happy. They have a special sparkle about them.
Happy Birthday Simon ! We are so happy for you ! Congratulations Ali and Chris for the support and love.
Replies to Jana_NJ
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Happy Birthday Simon!
13 years already - time flies.
My son is 14 en diagnosed as well.
It means so much to me to read your posts about him - thank you!
Replies to IlseWR
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We've got a kiddo like Simon at our house, too. He just turned 15!! (BTW, take a picture of Simon standing next to you right now, and then do it again at age 15; it will SHOCK you! My son went from being about 5 inches shorter to about 7 inches taller!). I know exactly that scene of finger-crossing, whispering and smiling as you watch them interact with their peers. This post made my heart melt. Love to you all! gosimongo!
Replies to dmc1231
This comment makes me wonder how much shorter I will be then my 12 year old in 3 years. He's already taller than me!!
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Your children are beautiful!!! ~Rose D'Angelo Designs
Replies to rosedangelo
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Happy belated birthday Simon!
Replies to hgauvin
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Love this. Thanks for sharing. Sounds like Simon (and you all) had a wonderful birthday!
Replies to gina200
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SO awesome!! Glad he had such a fabulous birthday. Thanks for sharing with us. Yay Simon!!
Replies to scraplea
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Happy "13th" Cake N' Candle Day, Simon!
Unfortunately it's a bittersweet experience in sharing their journey. Someday's I wish I could wrap mine in cotton a while longer... I'm not ready! {wink} Wishing your "modern family" all the best, always... love the "realness" you share with all of your readers.
Replies to Paper_Inkpressions
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Looks like he had a fabulous day!! #GoSimonGo
Replies to SuzMannecke
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