Every year, I tell myself I want to write something very profound in regards to Autism and how it has affected my life. But every year I fall short. How do you put something so delicate into words? How do I express the depth of my soul this has touched? I cannot relate to what these parents go through nor can I relate to what these kids must feel. I am learning but yet struggle to articulate what I think I understand.

What I know for sure is that I wish for these parents to find the answers they seek. I wish for these kids to express to the world all their joy and hurts in a language that is universal. I wish for the world to welcome their choice of expression. I wish for increased awareness every single day of the year.

To learn the story behind the "Before I Die" chalkboard,  click here http://beforeidie.cc/

I started Project Life 365 (PL365) in January and loved LOVED that I was constantly challenging myself with the word of the day. But then February came and with too many balls in the air – PL365 was a ball I allowed to fall. Finding inspiration was tough when you have two jobs, a family, and unexpected speed bumps in life. With PL365 as my home page, I am constantly reminded of the beautiful creative imagery taken with a mobile device and inspiration is starting to stir up again. So I’ve decided to jump right back into the swing of things.

Today’s word of the day: Silhouette

“You live so you may learn to love.You love so you may learn to live. No other lesson is required of man.”

-The Book of Mirdad

This is Jack, our wonderful three year old son. Never a dull moment goes by with this youngin’. He recently made up a new activity called  “let’s see how long I can fight sleep.” Jack is a very loving little boy who will give hugs and cuddles for days. He looks for new adventures all the time and enjoys playing outside and exploring. Jack likes to wind down with a good episode of The Simpsons and frequently listens to Cat Stevens to put him in a relaxed mood.

Every day is a new adventure with Jack and our family takes it day by day. Looking at the world through Jack’s eyes has made us better parents and human beings and we are blessed to have Jack in our lives.

Elias and Jess (Jack’s ma and pa)

It is Autism awareness month.

Autism currently affects 1 in 50 kids.