Monday, March 1, 2010

So what's the big diff?

John Michael made quite an impression on families at the park yesterday.

You could say he was his own self-advocate.

A walking poster boy for the "We're More Alike Than Different" campaign.

He walked up to children and waved. One little boy kissed John Michael on the cheek and then put his head on JM's chest.  Very endearing.  John Michael didn't seem to mind at all. 

He walked up to adults, tipping his head to the side and smiling, until they would acknowledge him.

He played "soccer" with the 4 to 6 year old kids, chasing and hitting the ball with his hand or kicking it.

And generally made people smile.

So, what's so different about that.

Well, actually, it is different.  None of my other three were quite as social as John Michael.  It's impossible to go somewhere without someone talking to him (sometimes ignoring me!).  There is a difference, but it's a good one.  In so many ways he's like every other kid, but I like the fact that his personality makes him stand out... in a good way.  :-)


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12 comments:

  1. AWESOME :) thanks for sharing the story at the park and the super fun pictures! I am LONGING for nice days soon so we can go to the park!!!!! Enjoy your beautiful weather!

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  2. yes I have that social "problem" too lol

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  3. Aww, he's just so sweet! Thanks for sharing that. I love the pictures!!

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  4. John Michael...you are such a little love bug. Yay for you showing all those people how absolutely amazing you are. Thanks for sharing this mom!!!!

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  5. Monica, you are right, who could fail to fall in love with that cherub?

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  6. Oh my goodness I couldn't agree more! My three girls are incredibly shy! (Well, not my youngest so much) Justin, on the other hand makes friends wherever he goes! LOVE it!

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  7. Monica, I have had the same experience! I have always said that Patrick has never met a stranger in his life...the whole planet is filled with potential friends. His welcoming attitude brings so much joy to the people around him and it definitely opens up our world. My other kids are pretty friendly but not the way Patrick is! :)

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  8. Can't wait to g out to the playground without a jacket on too! JM looks wonderful, love his long blond hair... We've voted for his poster, good luck.

    Gr from Holland,
    Maud

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  9. Awwwww, he is sooo cute. Thanks for the adorable pictures :)

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  10. I love your post. So glad he made such a great impression to those who don't realize how similar they are to everyone else but yet different in such a wonderful way. Thanks for sharing.

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