Months ago, my main goal for Luca was for him to sit up on his own. He has now mastered this- and doing amazing. Yesterday, I felt his mouth on my face. It felt almost like a kiss. But it wasn’t. I’m still waiting for a kiss. I’m still pining for my first hug. Will it ever come? In some ways, I’m very lucky that my 2 year old son, doesn’t have much of a choice when I hug him. He just sits there and cops my squishy hugs and thousands of kisses on his luscious cheeks. He doesn’t try and squirm away.

This weekend, we’re off on an overseas trip. Well, Luca isn’t. The thought of anything going wrong medically, or lugging around his chair in another country, means I doubt he’ll ever have a passport. We are very fortunate that we have Very Special Kids in our life. They are able to give Luca a holiday in Malvern! With the support of Drs, nurses, carers, volunteers- he is in the best place to have the best time. There is music therapy, art therapy, a sensory room, toys, delicious food, play areas, other children (coincidentally Luca’s girlfriend will be in at the same time!!) and lots of love. We’re also very fortunate that they have family accommodation in a house behind Very Special Kids, where Luca’s grandparents and Nonni will take turns at staying and visiting, to ensure Luca is a happy chappy with familiar faces, as well as his daily carers.

Luca’s stay at Very Special Kids means we’ll be able to give his 5 year old sister an overseas trip. A trip where she comes first, and doesn’t have to be shuffled around while we worry about Luca.  And most importantly, a trip where she can meet Ariel, The Little Mermaid, at Tokyo Disney. Very Special Kids also means… WE get a break.

I’m so bloody excited for our trip to Japan. This has been the light at the end of a tunnel for me. A holiday always helps keep me positive…. Just the idea of a holiday gives me a pep in my step. As always, I am trying to fight the negative thoughts from creeping in to my brain. Mostly “what if something happens to Luca when I’m in another country”. And once again, I have to remind myself that I can’t predict the future… Every inch of me is hoping that Luca’s stay goes so smoothly, for him and the staff.

When Friday comes, I’ll be giving Luca lots of smooches. And I’ll make him put his lips on on my cheek. Even if its a fake kiss, its still a kiss I’ll take with me to Japan.