Adventure journal ~ Happy Heart



Traveling with this boy of ours exceeded all expectations. He was so relaxed and happy to fit in with our spontaneous plans. I am sure that having a base in which to stay made a big difference. Having the familiarity of a home, bed, sofa and surrounds helped anchor him.

We gently encouraged him beyond his comfort zone. Many a day he hopped in and out of the car more times than I can count! Experiencing four villages and a long lunch in one day was quite mind blowing. A vast difference from times gone by, when we could only do one outing a day.

Our biggest adventure was taking him on a high speed motor boat for a two hour trip out to sea. We deliberated over this decision for a few days before taking the plunge. The trip was something we really wanted to experience and there was no way we could leave Nick behind! He did find it stressful alighting the boat and then disembarking, however, he loved the ride, especially the speed in which the boat bounced over the choppy waves.

Eating out was relatively easy. He went a bit over the top on Spaghetti Bolognese or French fries, although this was more my fault then his. Europe is expensive and I didn't want to waste food or money, therefore it was best to order his favorite food. We offered food from our plates and he tried a few tastes here and there, which was huge. I always had fruit on hand for stop gaps. Funny boy tried Guinness, not just once but twice. His facial expressions were comical and gave us a good giggle. I doubt that he will be trying it for a third time! 

The iPad was a win. Nick used it at the apartment when we were all having some down time. He also used it when we stopped for food/drink. We all love his Abitalk app and together we created some fun sentences with relevant photographs. Nick never disconnects from us when using the iPad. He constantly watches what is going on around him and frequently points out things of interest or comments on what he sees.

All in all, the adventure was a fabulous success. Now to plan the next one! 













12 comments:

  1. Such lovely reasons to keep you cheerful!

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    1. Thanks, Becky. Sorry to reply to your comment so late.... this week has just gone by in a flash!

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  2. So happy for you all that this worked out so well xx

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  3. sounds amazing - the boat ride sounds brilliant. So glad it worked out and totally couldn't live without J using his ipad these days either to keep calm, occupied and avoid meltdowns. x

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  4. I love the post - you can sense just how happy the trip made you and also that deep love for your boy.

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    1. Thank you, Kate. I do adore him... although could give him away at times!!!!! :-)

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  5. I am so, so very thrilled for you all. I followed your postings on social media with such interest! It is wonderful that Nick can now join in with family adventures and interact with you as he does. he has come such a very long way. xx

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    1. I can't quite believe it, Jazzy. It makes a huge difference to what we can do these days. xx

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  6. I love this. I love that you decided to travel and went for it. I know there must have been lots of planning and worrying for this trip to take place. I'm sure it was all worth it. Thank goodness for iPads too!

    Thanks for linking up with Small Steps Amazing Achievements :0)
    x

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    1. To be honest, Jane. Not too much planning... just lots of 'winging it'. Pun not intended! :-)

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