sherylscript: Today We Reached 24 Years

Autism: Surviving and Thriving

Fourteen years ago my youngest 3 boys were diagnosed with autism within a 9 month span. Devastation and grieving followed. Doctors gave me little or no hope, but they didn't know me very well. I refused to believe that my boys were doomed.

My boys are now young men, adults with autism. They are thriving, but every day presents its turmoil and challenges.

My family: husband Mike, sons Ryan 23 yr, Nicholas 21 yr, and Cameron 18 yr. (Ryan and Nick have autism; Cam has recovered from autism.) Our oldest sons, Michael 34 yr and Stuart 25 yr, moved out of the house. Ryan has also moved out, and is still working towards complete independence.

Monday, June 23, 2014

Today We Reached 24 Years

Sheryl & Mike: 24th Anniversary

Mike and I have spent over half of our lives together, and we still like each other. Of course, we still love each other too, but being friends coincides with being spouses. I am amazed that 24 years have flown by. It's good to stop and celebrate these occasions!

People have been asking me how many years have we been married, and I reply, "Twenty-four." They usually say, "Ahhh. Then next year is the big year. Do you have any plans?"

I am blown away. What is wrong with celebrating the 24th Anniversary? Yes, 25 is big, but we're not there yet. Why not focus on the year we had?

We've had a few major milestones: Ryan graduation from high school. Nick and Mike went to Hawaii. Ryan and Nick earned their driving permits. They also had their first jobs. Among others. Yes, this list is really about the boys, but that is reflective of our marriage: family.