Thanks.

I wanted to take a minute and say a public thank you for all the emails I have received over the last year about autism and about Simon. I have read stories of love and triumph and challenges; learned a ton from other mamas (and a couple dads too) & therapists & educators about daily schedules, diets, and educational toys; received so many links & infomation & files of picture schedules that I need another lifetime just to absorb it all; shed tears; and felt tremendous support.

I have connected with parents concerned about their own child's behaviors, even grandparents concerned about their grandchild. I have received emails from mamas whose children are grown - sharing words of wisdom & support & love, and emails from mamas sharing the proud accomplishments and strides their kids have made.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for reaching out to me.

It was just over a year ago that Simon received his initial diagnosis of autism.

Over the last year I have had moments of denial, moments of clarity, moments of questioning, and so very many moments of joy that this awesome little boy is in our lives.

One year ago today I posted, "So, things will change around here. Pieces of our life will change." And
of course it is true - our lives have been completely altered. And you
know what, I don't think I would take one moment of it back. This is us. We have all become more us.

Here are a few new links I want to share:

• From Pam (thanks Pam): Getting The Word Out

• Sharon Sonneff wrote a very interesting and thought-provoking entry on her blog the other day: Experiencing the Mysterious

In 12 days, Simon will turn 4. We will celebrate all that makes him Simon. All the beautiful bits and pieces that we treasure about him. That we adore. That we are so very thankful for...