Early Gifts

I arrived at the holiday lunch yesterday at Leo’s school (the flyer instructed us all to “dress to impress”) surprised to see Leo, walking the buffet line, holding his little tray, all by himself.

This photo is a bit Where’s Waldo? (and apologies for the horrific composition and that woman's GIANT hand) but I promise you that Leo is there. He is earnestly surveying the spread (upholding the family names, this boy is serious about his food).

He went on to have two helpings of stuffed shells, and kept one hand on my leg for most of the hour (except for when I took this picture, of course).

It was such a nice time. These little moments alone with my boy just mean so much. And spending time with him at school is even more special. He’s so appreciative and excited did I mention, grown up? I just love little glimpses of him in his “other life.” He’s come so far this year. The sentences, the reading, (I made the mistake of leaving a Toys R Us bag out in full view and note to self: can’t do that anymore because oops! My kid can read!). To say nothing of how much he's matured in his behavior, following directions and listening and acting less impulsively.

Leo kept offering me some of his food though I politely declined. Every few minutes he would look around at his friends and teacher and aides and say, “Mommy’s here!” We sat by good buddy Terry (Leo talks about him often) and Terry kept leaning over to me and saying “Leo’s mom!” as if he too, couldn’t quite believe I was there.

Unfortunately I missed the school holiday sing-a-long this morning. But I got a little preview last night on the drive home from aftercare, when Leo busted out with “Feliz Navidad,” singing along with the radio. He knows all the words (this was news to me).

Merry Christmas, indeed.