Today was the end of the week camp talent show.  This was/will be the only week Brendan is at my school for camp.  Despite not being there before, and never one to be a wall flower, he decided (on Monday) he would be in the talent show.  In true Brendan fashion (pun intended) he wore a costume, wig and sang Let it Go.

He didn’t care what anyone would think of his dress, wig or singing.  He was going to do it his way.  Performing after all is what he loves most.  He was purposely put as the finale and got a standing ovation from the councilors who congratulated him after the show.  I even got a text from a staff member saying after a tough week he made it all seem ok.

I couldn’t help but think about one year ago tonight.  It was opening night of Pippin, the first of the six performances Brendan played Theo.  He was there only two weeks but I really believe what he learned- not just in the classes and from those working there, but more from the other kids- made an indelible impact.  I really believe because of the love and acceptance he found with those kids who were a little older than him- boys and girls- he really embraced being himself.  They liked him for who he was.  He could sing songs, play the girl part, talk about musicals, bring a pink lunchbox and wear whatever he wanted.  They invited him to sit with them at lunch, run lines and talk about the ins and outs of backstage.

I point to his time at Pippin and friendships with a few of the older boys in particular as a reason for why he was so successful being himself in first grade.  He could be Merida at Halloween and a fashion stylist on career day because that’s what he wanted to do.  His confidence is impressive and more than one adult has said they wish to be him when they grow up.  I do too.  Seeing the example of the boys at drama who were twelve and thirteen telling him he was cool and having similar interests made him feel special.  Keeping in touch with one and going to each other’s shows has meant the world to him.

I love that Bren can be who he wants to be- authentic, independent and carefree.  He is the happiest of kids and he radiates love and energy.  Drama has been his outlet for this, his support for this and future.  I can’t think of a greater gift than continuing what he loves and meeting more people who help him grow into the person he is meant to be, a person loved for who he is and all his unique gifts and talents.

Brendan is 7!  How did that happen?!  Time certainly flies!  Bren requested a Frozen Birthday Party at our house to celebrate.  He invited his whole class as well as friends from Walnut Park and other family and friends.  He also invited his friend Jerry who is in the Developmental Disabilities Class and has lunch with him and his friends several days a week.  The party was mostly girls (there were a few boys) and most fun for Bren was that his friend Jerry came!

What Bren did not know was that two other special guests were invited as a surprise- Elsa and Ana.  He was so excited!  Of course there was a costume change in the middle of the party!  Ana and Elsa sang, read a story, painted nails (highlight for Bren), had a red carpet walk and had cake.  It was a highlight!!