Today I want to share with you something that made Sukkot even more special this year. Here is a picture of my son holding the lulav and etrog shaped cookies he decorated at this years Pizza in a Hut Sukkot party.
Besides enjoying time with family and friends under the Sukkah hut, this picture represents an important milestone in my son’s life. This is the first time my son has been able to decorate and eat these cookies. This is the first time he was able to enjoy food at a holiday event. This is the first time I didn’t have to pack special food for my son. And this is the first time I was able to completely relax at a holiday event without worrying about my son.
Living the first three years of his life with food allergies has been hard on all of us. We had to avoid milk, soy, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, seeds and seafood. I gave myself the title of “Queen Label Reader” because that was what I had to do to keep my son healthy. Although it has been incredibly stressful, my son is one of the lucky ones. He slowly began to outgrow his allergies. Last month was a big one for us…he passed his peanut challenge. So this picture represents much more than a happy three year old enjoying his cookies. This picture represents the joy I felt in telling my son that he could decorate the cookies. And as big as his smile is in this picture, mine was even bigger behind the camera. We are truly blessed.
Krienie wrote...
When we see our children overcome something they are struggling with, we are witnessing a divine moment. Whether it is challenges over which they don't seem to have any control like breaking out that first tooth, or overcoming an allergy, or milestones that took alot of effort, think taking the first step, reading that first word (especially if its Hebrew:), or performing at a first recital, the feeling of joy and triumph is priceless. It starts in the heart and shines through the face (and in this case radiates off his cheeks!)
Its truly a moment to be celebrated and cherished. To feel thankful and blessed. A moment to be shared with family and friends.
Thanks Dara for sharing yours with us!
Kreinie