Preparing For 2012

As I reflect back on 2011 I can’t help but see all the changes that have taken place in Selena. She has lost so much of the baby look, and is growing like a weed. I believe she jumped two sizes in clothing this year. She has matured in many ways, though at times I felt we were back sliding in behaviors then moving forward.

While she has always been independent I have watched as this independence has moved from “I can do this” to “I can make wiser choices about what I do.” She carefully chooses her clothes to wear for the day, and undresses and dresses herself. She has mastered most buttons, snaps, zippers, and is still working on tying. She bathes herself with little assistance, shampoos her own hair, including rinsing and conditioner. Sometimes I still need to help assure she gets all the soap rinsed out.

Academically, I have watched her reading and understanding explode. She is really interested in math and how equations work. She has gained more of an interest in writing, but is lacking the self confidence to proceed on. I expect that to change this next year.

One more thing I have noticed is that instead of depending so much on us to help her make right choices, she is working harder on making choices herself. She reminds herself throughout the day that she has to make better choices over time management, (that one cracks me up) behavioral issues, as well as the type of activities that she will participate in.

I don’t know what the next year will truly hold for us, but I am looking forward to holding on and going for the ride. I know there will be more changes take place with more maturity and exploration of our world.