Tomorrow, my little guy goes off to school. I filled out forms - just like the other moms did. I gathered papers from doctors - just like the other moms did. I got two little passport photos for his file - just like the other moms did. I paid the tuition - just like the other moms did.

I didn’t linger long on the questionaire where it asked what Addison can and can not do:

Walk?

No.

Out of diapers?

No.

Speak?

No.

Eat by himself.

No.

Draw?

Finally I could check yes.

I understand teachers need to know about bathroom, physical, and linguistic basics, and I’ve soften my defensive protests when it comes to comparing Addison to his peers. My son may not be able to run around at recess like the rest of the kids, but how many dance like the dickens to the entire Shakira CD? Or how many kids act out several folk songs in Spanish? And what kid, wherever he goes, has gaggles of girls fawning over him? Maybe I could suggest a few blank on next years form?

Is this kid a complete, fantastic original?

Yes.

Funny?

Yes.

Speaks four languages in gurgly babbles?

Yes.

Eats avocados; blueberries, papaya, and carrots with joy?

Yes.

Faced major medical obstacles with flying colors?

Yes.

Tomorrow, Addison will get on the bus, though he’ll be carried and need extra help, he’ll join the ranks of "normal" while staying true to his SELF.