If you’re my Facebook friend, you might have read that we got really good news today. While I was working on grad school homework, my phone rang. The caller ID said “Mercyhurst.” 

I knew what that meant. We’ve been waiting for the call. Mia had already been excepted into Mercyhurst, but we had not yet heard from their autism support program. 

Holly, from the autism initiative, said she had good news. She said, “We absolutely loved meeting Mia. We are excited to tell you she’s been excepted into our program!”

14 years ago I had a little girl who wouldn’t speak to anyone. I had a little girl who didn’t make eye contact. This little girl used to bite, tantrum, scream, do all kinds of things just to try to communicate with us.

I wish I could calculate the hours spent helping this little girl. All the different therapies including occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, social skills groups, etc. All the money spent on her GFCF diet and nutritional supplements. All of it. 

I know I blogged about this not that long ago. I know I talked about how amazing Amelia is. But I just can’t believe all of this is happening.

There’s a saying that goes, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” Have you heard that saying? I’ve heard and listened to that saying my entire life. I’ve had plans a, B, C, D, etc.

This time I had one plan. It wasn’t really my plan. It was the plan that evolved. This plan came from input from Mikey, and from other friends who had ideas for Mia, and honestly above all, from God.

We put all her eggs in one basket for this plan, and we did not stress over it. We calmly progressed towards this plan. 

All the pieces are not yet in place by the way. There’s a summer program before this college experience that has not yet been paid for. And the autism program itself at about $12,000 a year on top of the regular tuition room and board.

But if you’ve ever watched a kid fight like hell and struggle to get where other kids get easily and naturally, then you might understand when I say this: I truly do not care how much this costs. I will probably be in debt for the rest of my life. But this needs to happen…

I’m walking along the beach at night thinking about my amazing kid who’s in her bed and hopefully smiling. God gave me three amazing kids. Our journey has never been easy, but it is always been our journey.

For the first time in a very long time I can stop holding my breath about my Mia. I honestly don’t know what lies ahead for her. But at least the next step and the next few years are now in place.

As my dear friend, Cheri, says, “Selah.”