Autism Gala 2011

Last night was the 9th Annual Autism Society of America Gala.  What an amazing event.  This was our 6th year attending and it was the best yet. The event took place at Glen Sanders Mansion in Scotia. What a place...the food was absolutely superb (as always).  Every year, this event gives us a chance to sit back and reflect on the gift that God has given us...our amazing son, Anthony.  The Autism community of the Capital District gets together to celebrate the differences of our children.  Parents, teachers, family members, local programs,  and many others who support and advocate for our children are given the opportunity to gather and celebrate.  Last year we raised $70,000 at the Gala and I'm sure we are close to that this year as well.  Matt and I got all decked out, ate, drank, networked and spent way more money than anticipated on the silent auction.  I swore that this year we would NOT bid on ANYTHING.  The trip for 4 to Sturbridge Village and the Howe Cavern tickets that we spend hundreds of dollars on last year are sitting in my office, expired, collecting dust.  But, this year....after 2 gin and tonics, that Empire State Building framed painting looked damn good!  we HAD to get that for Anthony who is obsessed with the Empire State Building.  So,  $80 later, here we are with a framed painting.  Anthony does think it's cool, but he thought the chocolate puzzle piece favor that probably cost 50 cents was MUCH cooler.  One thing that last night's Gala helped me to  realize was how lucky I am to be married to the man that I am married to.  The diagnosis of Autism can make or break a marriage.  We are so lucky that it has "made" our marriage.  Matt and I have become so much closer over the years as we figure our way through this journey. He really is the best husband in the world and I am so lucky to have him.  We had a blast last night.  Just the two of us...dancing, hanging, talking, and reflecting on our lives and our family.  I am blessed to have him (even though he is always late, can't keep a secret if his life depended on it, and is extremely forgetful...but who's keeping track).  Anyway, life is good....I can't complain.  Now....time for wedding shower mode.  the Waterslide Wedding Shower is next Saturday!  Lots to do and lots to report on, so stay tuned!