All Together Now!

Thanksgiving at my house was awesome. My home, and heart, were so full I thought both would burst at the seams!  Family and friends entertained us with their presence AND my little Carson was (and still is) home!

People Everywhere!!!

I really love my family!
 

  Carson's time in the hospital appears to have been a wise decision.  He is on some medication for his anxiety and has learned some coping skills.  I have also learned that I need to be more scheduled since he responds very well to having time prompts.  I'm grateful to all the doctors who helped him and gave me back my sweet little guy.

Carson chatted with this aide for hours.  He told her that the good thing about October was that it was Breast Cancer Awareness month.  I think it is so cute that a ten year old would be concerned with women's health.We were waiting for a bed at the psychiatric hospital and he was loving all the attention at the Children's Hospital.  Little did he know that it would all change when he changed hospitals...

Carson's first meal at the psychiatric hospital.  He was not too happy that they brought him pizza on a plate that was smothered in peas.  We had to get a second plate and separate the two.  Still, dealing with the pea flavor on the pizza was not something he really wanted to do.

Getting a hug from his bestie, Mason, during visiting time.

Carson in his room.  He was not thrilled when he found out that there was not a TV there.

During his stay, Carson went to group therapy, music therapy, art therapy, and met with social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists.  We came home with a clear plan and a support system.  Carson will start a Day Treatment program on Monday.  I think we may be able to get our insurance to pay for five days.  That should be long enough to really reinforce his new skills, and teach him some additional ones for coping with his anxiety.

The kids were so excited to see Carson when he got home that they made a little shrine for him in the entryway.  Carson loves turtles and the shrine was everything turtle (oh, and chocolate!)

Carson's Boy Scout troop made him a "Welcome Home" sign.

Carson's favorite plushies were there to greet him.

Turtles EVERYWHERE!!  Carson loved it!

A Minecraft turtle shaped room was skillfully constructed by Amanda

The kids greeted him with all of his favorite goodies.  The plate was piled high!

 

 As parents, we make the best decisions we can with the information we have. Hopefully, the fallout from our actions is positive.  Parenting is the hardest job I've ever had to undertake but the rewards are incredible!  I'm really praying that the Carson who came back to us, stays with us.