Surreal surfing experience.

Therasurf is a non-profit organization who sets up surf days for special needs kids. Sounded good. I had a bunch of friends taking their children as well. When I first heard of it, I thought no way, he doesn't know how to swim. But I had seen pics of them taking non-mobile kids so I reconsidered.

I have to say, it was a small window of time filled with anxiety and ending with elation. After we signed in, they sent us over to the wet suits. I knew that wouldn't go over well but I figured I could use it as leverage to get him to put the life jacket on which was non-negotionable. Which worked.

Sebastian came over while we were working on getting him out of the wetsuit and fitting him with a life jacket. They had asked me what would help calm him and make him more comfortable. I gave them a list of songs and told our new surfer friend, Sebastian, again. He asked how he would know if he was not going for it. I assured him he would know.

I had explained Ian's not being able to swim, and his inability to completely communicate and his strength to the initial contact. She obviously set us up with one of the more experienced surfers. Who happened to have a 3 year old of his own, as well as an older daughter we met who was clearly a surfer as well.

And off they went! As they were paddling out, all I could think of was what the heck am I letting happen. Why did I sign up for this. This is crazy!

There was Sebastian on the board with him, holding him, and then another surfer just near them to help. Then they checked in with yet another one once out past the waves. I could see him high-fiving Ian. Then before I knew it, they were riding a long, beautiful wave all the way down the beach! Sebastian ended up picking him up and it was incredible to watch. The pictures below are not for the weak at heart. I can't even believe that I let this happen, let alone took pics while it did ;)

But when he got in, I had run down to meet them. Ian seemed to be in a very interesting state. I think if he could have gone without the life jacket, he might have taken Sebastian up for going out again. He wanted that jacket off! I know the feeling. I can't stand them!

After the jacket was off, he just walked up on the sand and sat on someones rainbow blanket and just stared at the ocean for quite some time with such a peaceful look on his face. I swear he was thinking, "I just did that and it was amazing"