Today was an ordinary day, like a lot of other Sundays around our house in the last few weeks.
We went to church.
And it snowed.
In that order.
Now that the Superbowl is history, we have one disappointed little football fan on Sunday afternoons. Hudson, is one of the guys. (He’s our youngest, has Down syndrome.) He loves a good football game, particularly the Pats.
Biggest Little Fan by allie taylor
We started noticing it last year. Every time the Patriots played, he was out there in the living room with the rest of the guys, right up at that TV, clutching the lip of the armoire, cheering. Yelling. It wasn’t always intelligible, but it was animated, loud. He’s one of the guys.
Then we noticed him with the old 2010 New England Patriots yearbook. He’d set up in a quiet corner, tuck his little legs up underneath, slowly leaf through. Then start back at the beginning, go through it all over again, savoring each page. He adopted it as his own, especially loved looking at the individual player pictures in uniform. I think he’s a Tom Brady fan. (Or maybe that’s me?) Well that little yearbook got water-stained, dog eared, torn. Mostly by Hudson, from frequent use.
So the Superbowl came. It was Sunday afternoon, Jon went out to get some goodies for the guys for the game. Including Hudson. He gets home, calls Hudson over. Hudson comes running.
“Hudson my man, I have something special for you.”
He pulls out of the grocery bag a brand new 2014 official New England Patriots yearbook. The one with Bill Belichick on the front cover, ear-tucked pencil, whistle twirling. Presents it to Hudson. I really wish you could’ve seen Hudson’s little face, the wonder, the excitement, the joy. Two little hands reaching out to receive that very exciting gift. Priceless.
So football’s over this season, no game today. But I come across Hudson’s new yearbook on the kitchen counter. It doesn’t exactly look new anymore.
“Hudson, Hudson…look what I found!”
I hand him the 2014 yearbook. He chortles, takes it quick with both hands. Says, clear as a bell, “book!” Did you hear me? Don’t mean to be redundant, but HE SAID BOOK! It’s just that he’s never said the word book before. So we all cheer, we’re so excited. We try, but he won’t say it again. Little stinker.
Today was an ordinary day, like a lot of other Sundays around our house in the last few weeks.
But it was also extraordinary.
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simone says
Priceless story…loved it. Thank you for sharing them with all us. Hudson has very good taste…
Julie says
Love that boy…
Susan says
Ali,
Your story brings back sweet memories for our family of watching a super bowl game with Hudson (and you and Jon)!
Allie says
Yes Susan, that was such a delightful evening at your house!!! I remember having a lovely chat with your mom that night. She was so sweet to Hudson.
nancy mcmahan says
Beautiful how a single word..Book…can make a ordinary day become extrodinary.
Nancy Hammett says
That priceless . Love and big hug to sweet Hudson.
Barbara Child says
Wonderful! And so well related!
Susie says
What an adorable sweetie pie he is!! Loved this. =)
Sheryl says
C’mon, how cute is that? (And I’m not talking about Tom Brady’s smile, this time!) 🙂 So adorable with his yearbook!!! I have to admit a few tears fell reading that one. I think this little guy needs a meet and greet…I’m sure his family would agree to take him…
Judy says
Fun to hear how Hudson’s friendly little personality is developing with his interest in football — and reading! That makes him fit right in with all his sports-minded brothers. We’re all cheering from the sidelines, Allie, for each new accomplishment!
Tracy Costa says
I didn’t know that about Hudson! He is priceless! Just love this story.
monica says
What a heartwarming!
Aunt Joanie says
Adorable photo of Hudson. I share your excitement of each new word Hudson speaks. Tears of joy!
Linda Jenkins says
And those are the most precious moments anyone could hope for on a very ordinary Sunday. That is a great picture of Hudson. And when you least expect it, he will utter “book” again, and then add a new word to his ever-growing vocabulary. Thank God for all those special moments hidden within those very ordinary Sundays. I am still smiling at the thought of those special moments to come.