What is the hardest thing about autism? That is such a loaded question and to be honest, my answer changes every day. The hardest part for me lately is that Mason is no longer a baby, he can’t even pass for a toddler at this point. It’s no longer “cute” if people come over and he’s stark naked because he refuses to wear clothes while at home. His meltdowns in public are no longer just a toddler upset about not getting his way. His silence when adults ask him what his name is or how old he is can’t really be laughed off as shyness anymore. He’s going to be 5 years old this spring and he’s tall for his age. As much as I hate to admit it, I believe the hardest part of our autism journey is just beginning.

We’ll navigate the challenge of having a school aged child with special needs just as we handled the initial doctors appointments, evaluations and the inevitable diagnosis—one day at a time. The only thing I’m sure of is that we’ll keep trying to change the world for you, sweet boy. #masonandme #autismacceptance