Eighteen years ago Josiah joined our family; 9 lbs 6 ounces of wonder and adventure wrapped up in one precious package.  From that very first day, his life has been one challenge after another with a seemingly endless array of hurdles populating his path.

He’s faced more obstacles in his 18 years than I have in nearly 60.  Yet, he’s one of the happiest people I know, waking most mornings bouncy and smiley and loud.  For a non-verbal guy, he is definitely LOUD.

Don’t get me wrong, there are many moments when Josiah is not a happy camper, like last night for example when he refused to get ready for bed.  I was insistent he needed to put on pajama bottoms.  He was insistent he would not.

If you know me at all, you know I love a challenge and I love to win.

So, when Josiah’s amazing caregiver (ALL of them are amazing caregivers) had to leave in the middle of the pajama pants show down, I jumped up and said, “Go, I’ve got this!” almost a little too confidently if I’m being honest.

Actually, much too confidently it turns out.  I gave it my best for a good 20 minutes, but then it just didn’t seem all that important any more.  Who cares if Josiah sleeps in his clothes?  Does it really matter that much?  I waved the white flag and surrendered my stance,  “Okay buddy, you win this time. You can wear your pants to bed.”

“I’m letting you win.”  I said  as if announcing it would allow me to retain some semblance of authority.

Josiah’s officially an adult.  Our once little guy who has had so many people make so many decisions for him all of his life wants to start calling some of the shots.

He has come such a long way these past few years.  I think he’s earned it.

So while we will still work on compliance and seek to ensure Josiah does what’s right,  every once in a while, like last night, he can sleep in his clothes with his socks and shoes still on!

How’s that for a Happy Birthday?