1 Year later...

Let me tell you, the Autism diagnosis ain't nothing compared to everything that follows after. It is kind of like the golden ticket on American Idol, you're handed the diagnosis and off you go! However, there is no one to really guide you. You're kind of in it by yourself. It can be lonely at first. Loneliness turns to anger. Anger turns to determination.... and well, you've never seen determination as much as that of an Autism Mama!

We are coming up on 1 year this month from the actual diagnosis from CHOP. It has been a crazy year. A busy year. And a beautiful year.

I've gone from counting my kids words to not even being able to count them all now! A crayon and a utensil is not such a scary thing anymore. Putting my child on the bus is not so scary anymore. Getting the notes home from school that Lia is transitioning well, makes me very proud.

Lia and I got to this point together. I helped her and she helped me. We've grown from each other. She is 3.5 years old now and flourishing. There is certainly a long road ahead, but baby steps will get us there together.