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aid goodbye to Jenks today and witnessed a miracle. The rides were half closed off, but my son barely batted an eye - a far cry from the tantrums of his past.

    Fifteen years ago, it took three people to restrain him when he threw a fit over a barricade. Today, he calmly waited for a fresh pretzel after being told it would take five minutes to make one. The transformation is remarkable.

    We walked to Kohrs to get Mom's pumpkin custard, passing the expensive pretzel place twice before returning with a fresh one. What was once an eternity now felt like no time at all.

    As we strolled by the fun house where I'd waited for rescue years ago, I couldn't help but think about how far we've come. Autism is cyclical, and we've faced our share of struggles over the years - from aggressive outbursts to crises that left me wondering if my son had lost his way.

    But with each setback comes a chance for growth and renewal. The best thing I've learned is to hold onto hope and remember that what's been lost can return or be replaced by something even better.

    Today was about carbs, rides, and walks with my boy - simple joys that bring me immense happiness. And yes, I love him more than words can express. But it's the gift of being able to enjoy him too that makes all the difference.