Friends.

Talked to Jake's teacher this morning, because we're going to the local (but make no mistake, massive!) corn maze today as part of a field trip. She put him with several boys who she says are his "new best pals." He's been playing with them at recess; they've been helping him with share; basically, they are taking a huge interest in interacting with them and he has responded in kind. She wanted to make sure it was okay that J's para would be with another group - there are two other parents in my group, and no parents of girls coming, so she's needed elsewhere, plus she figured three parents for five boys would be plenty. I said yes, that was fine. He's riding the bus there, too, and I'll meet them at the maze, because I feel like that's an important part of socializing, and he loves the bus in general. Better if I'm not on it so he can sit with his buddies and not worry about me.

Having friends is a huge thing. This is brand-new. He's had connections with other kids, but not a consistent group who actually includes him in play at recess and who considers him a buddy. I'm nearly in tears at the thought.

Last night we read two more chapters of Gregor the Overlander, cuddling in bed. He listened intently. At the end, I said, "Do you like this book?" and he replied, "Like book." If he doesn't agree, he just says nothing. So he likes the book. I'm really glad, and so thrilled to have a new routine that brings something positive to his life. Tomorrow, Matt and I discuss the loft construction, and I will most likely give the carpenter a call and tell him it's a go. Three or four days of construction, he said - I want to get it done as soon as humanly possible so I can get started setting up his room, and so Katie can spread out. Exciting!