We finally did it! 

We are transforming our garage into a home-gym for the family.  Our exercise equipment has been moved from room to room around the house and has landed in the garage.

This idea is mostly spawned by the notion that I needed to punch something, badly, and Jake is running around like a wild man with pent up energy.  He needs useful and appropriate ways to expend that energy and reap the rewards of the naturally produced "exercise high"!

There are two sides to this however.  While he's working out he's becoming more calm and regulated, but he's also becoming stronger and stronger.  He's big and getting lots bigger so I need to keep one step ahead of him! 

At this point, the punching bag, mini-trampoline, a couple dumb-bells and an exercise bike are out there on some carpet remnants.  Going to get a hanging bar next and hang up some pictures for Jake's Jukin' Gym! 

Fun and sore days ahead! Consider it for your guys. It's a win-win! 

Many days, I am frustrated with society's general lack of understanding and compassion for Autism, but then there are days like today that restore my faith in the community! 

Jake has been waiting patiently to go to the new "oil change" place and check everything out.  Our bar was set pretty high because at the last "oil change" place, the customer service rep would actually take Jake back to look at the bays where they work on the vehicles. 

Today, we walked in and met a very nice man named Phil at the desk.  Jake was anxious, pacing back and forth, and peeking inside the waiting rooms.  A million questions preceded this trip, as waiting is not our forte!  "Will I get to watch a TV? Can I play my game? Will there be a lot of people? How long will it take?" 

I took a mental note of the Autism Speaks ad on the flat screen behind the counter and pointed it out to Jake.  "Oh, they like Autism here!"

After I signed in, I asked Phil if he would let Jake look at the garage and explained he's anxiety stems from autism so talk slowly.  "Sure thing," he said, "My nephew has autism too!" 

Phil energetically hopped up from behind the counter, to lead Jake to see the bays.  After about 10 minutes they came back, Jake beaming and Phil beaming brighter.  "I'll come back and get you when it's up on the lift!" 

Wait, What? 

This is way more than we both expected.

Waiting 15 more minutes, and Phil returned.  "Let's go buddy."  Down they go... I was stunned.  Ten more minutes pass and Jake pops around the corner holding two air filters. 

"Mommy, these are dirty and need to be replaced!" 

I looked past him to Phil, and asked if he's got Jake doing his work for him now? Nice work, Phil. 

I gave permission and they disappeared again.  He took Jake to the supply room to find the new filters, match 'em up and deliver them to the mechanic. 

Phil was so excited upon his return, "He picked out the filters, matched them up and did a great job!" he exclaimed.  I could see Jake grow a little taller in that minute, I swear.

A total stranger built up and instilled confidence in my kid just by taking a minute to care. If anyone wants to be treated with respect and dignity, go to Fitzgerald's AutoMall for Toyota service by Lake Forest.

Way to go above and beyond Phil H!
 

Change of plans! 

I know I've received a ton of support to write a book, and I thank you, but that idea is being tabled.  I enjoy writing, it is my therapy.  But after much spiritual reflection and conversations with Chris and Jake, we all believe Jake has so much to teach us all, we want to share whatever we can, RIGHT NOW, for FREE! 

I believe Jake is our gift and has a gift to help families with his insight.  We want to share all that information with anyone who wants it, in hopes of helping families better understand their Super Hero children. 

The blessings we receive from helping families in need, is more than we could have ever imagined and much more valuable than profits from a $12.00 book! 

So friends, stay tuned for new Q & A interviews with Jake. All the past interviews have been re-posted and are now available. Please share and spread the word.  We want to be the source for all families seeking real-life positive information about the blessings of Autism. 

Get started reading Q & A's here!