Those of you who have been reading my blog for a while know I have a soft spot when it comes to Asher. I just am crazy about that boy. He embodies so many qualities I wish I had: he always considers others first, never gets angry (unless Dalton gets him with a crazy WWF move), always forgives and never fails to have a smile, hug or word of encouragement for those around him. As an example, I was out the other day, taking Jude to a doctor appointment. Asher called and the end of our conversation went something like this: “Mom?” “Yes, Asher” “Could you give Jude a hug from me?” …. geesh, where does this boy get it and can I have some?!?
But several years ago Asher struggled with many academic concepts, and we worried about him being able to learn like our other children. When it was time to start kindergarten, I homeschooled him, hoping to be able to either teach him the concepts he was just not getting, or determine that he needed to be held back a year. Before the middle of the school year, we knew he was not ready to be in kindergarten. We spent the rest of the year just learning the things he was ready for and letting go of many expectations. Asher started kindergarten the next year and has never looked back. He does well in school and is, thankfully, on par with other children in his class.
So this came as a shock. We received a letter from the school, requesting our approval to test our sweet boy for the GIFTED program! WHAAAA? Who? Asher? Maybe a nomination for the ‘Big Heart’ award, but gifted? Needless to say we were absolutely thrilled and just bursting with pride for our once slow-starter. I mean, this boy didn’t know his colors when he was 5 (but he could name every single Stink Blaster ever made ;)). We haven’t made a huge deal out of it to him, since we really don’t want him to be anxious about the testing or upset if he doesn’t qualify for the program. But I just wanted to take a moment to toot my little guy’s horn: Way to go ASHER!!
Congrats Asher! I could tell he was extra smart, just from looking at that wonderful picture!
Okay… I am crying happy tears and I don’t even know you irl!!
You must be beaming with pride!!!
Way to go Buddy!!!!!!
SO COOL!
🙂
Amie
Congrats Asher and way to go Mama! I love that toothless grin!
Way to go Asher!! What an accomplishment already. He sounds like a very well rounded boy.
My oldest was in a similar program (ALPS)
Good job mom, you must be proud!
Dianne
That is SO AWESOME! I’ve got tears streaming down my face!!
I wish I’d had a chance to spend more time with you guys that day, getting to know all your kids!
I am speechless! How proud you must be – not just for his accomplishments but for his love for others!!
Great Job Asher!
Congrats to Asher! We are all so proud of him, this is Awesome.
Brian, Denise & boys
Toot away, Stefanie! Asher deserves it! I love to hear you describe his heart. I believe my 9 yr. old son has a heart of gold that I wish I had myself!
So, do we have any updates on Joey? Oh I have been praying. I had seen him on Small World’s site.
Thank you for watching our video and your sweet comment. Stefanie, how do you do it? You have 7 children, 3 of which are toddlers, and you still have time to blog and advocate for God’s children and I’m sure a host of other activities. There are some (most) days that I feel like if I’ve brushed my children’s teeth and read them books and fed them something then I’m doing good! Whew. You are an inspiration for me to go the “second mile” and reach out!
God bless you!
Laine
Laine, you are too sweet 🙂 I actually feel the exact same way you do, most days I am just happy to keep them fed and out of trouble! Speaking of being busy…you’ve got TWO NEW little ones, so I need some tips from you! 🙂
You toot that horn! Congratulations Asher (love his name, by the way.) Obviously, this is young man with some amazing parents! For any of us who have ever worried about our children’s progression, this is the happy story we love to hear. I filled all up and celebrated right here at my computer. Thanks for a very bright spot to my day.
Heather
That is so neat! I’ve heard that many boys are “slow starters” and then take off once they’re older! That is GREAT, Asher!!!
Way to go, Asher!!
What a very special, kind hearted boy! You say you wish you had some of his qualities…well, he had to learn them from someone!! 😉
Thanks for sharing Asher’s accomplishments with us!
That is such a great story! Way to go Asher! I love his name by the way, my mom’s maiden name was Asher, and we almost considered using it for a name too! Although my last name starts with the “sh” sound so we thought it might be a bit much! It fits your little guy perfectly! All the Asher’s in my family have a special sweet spirit too! Must be a great name!