Zipping and Buttoning in the new dimension

 We just bought #1 jeans for the first time. At the age of 14, he just mastered how to zip and button pants. Yes, I am crying.

In the last few years, he has grown considerably. In just four years, he went from a very cute 10/12 to an adult extra large. His feet are a men's size 12. We have big people stock. 

I had the moment when I realized that he has outgrown most of his clothes, so I had to take him shopping. I let him select colors and types of clothes; hoodies, t-shirts, sweatpants, and then I selected a few pairs of jeans to try. He hasn't worn jeans since he was a toddler because once he had to zip and button them himself, he couldn't. He just didn't have the strength or dexterity in his hands to do it.

In the fitting room, I told him, "We're going to try on some jeans, just to see." He managed to button and zip each pair I handed him, ON HIS OWN. I was thrilled.  Once we found the right size, colors and cuts, we tired on outfits, and he liked his reflection. "I'm going to look cool, mom" he said as he paraded around the dressing room, busting into a few choice dance moves.

"Yes, you will, but you already are cool." I replied.

You see, my kids struggle with acquiring new skills. Many times it's with things that are so easy and menial to most people that we overlook it and seem surprised when someone else hasn't yet mastered that skill.

"He can't tie his shoes?" I shake my head, "No." And, you feel the judgement. "What is wrong with you?"

And no, I didn't cry at Walmart. But after sitting down and thinking about it, how far he has come, I got overwhelmed.

It seems like we're finally getting to a place where we can work on and master all those little skills.

So right now, I'm over the moon.  And tomorrow, we'll work on shoe tying.