Making New Friends

When we first started researching service dogs for kids with autism we were especially enthused about the idea that a well trained dog could provide a bridge - a gateway of sorts - for Tim to meet typical children and develop relationships.  I never expected that we'd all reap that benefit.

We've been quite lucky this year to befriend some folks who often invite us to join them (and their three extremely energetic little boys) on all sorts of outdoorsy outings.  Charlie played a big part in our introductions (a long story best saved for another post) and consequently, they are as enamored with Charlie as we are.   In addition to the fact that we've gotten the opportunity to know this warm and dynamic family, Tim LOVES to hang with his new little buddies.  When he's with them he is extremely motivated to speak and imitate their behavior.  (Those of you in the A Club can appreciate what a HUGE deal this is.)

This weekend we enjoyed a good romp through Sunol Regional Park with our new friends and both Charlie and Tim were in their glory.   I can't express how thrilling it is to watch my kid just being one of the boys.   (Tim's the one in the middle.)

Of course, the boys also managed to give Charlie an olympic work out by running with him endlessly over hill and dale.  After a great day of hiking our EXTREMELY hospitable friends hosted us for a BBQ and were kind enough to introduce Charlie to the rest of their menagerie.   Turns out that Charlie made some new friends too.  (I wasn't exactly sure how he'd react to this little piglet but true to his usual docile temperament, he treated her with curiosity and respect.)