As some of you may know, I've an almost four-year old son who is autistic. We're extremely fortunate that he seems to be doing well with the various therapies and programs that he's receiving - he's very sociable, interactive, and an all-around bright kid. His communication skills are still horrendously lagged; he knows a bunch of signs and can say a handful of words, but he's a long long ways from being able to have a conversation with someone else. Fortunately, he's amazingly cute, so I figure he'll get snagged as some starlet's boytoy and live the life of luxury in a Hollywood mansion.

That said, we're going to be doing a walk to support autism research come October 15th. Autism rates have been growing alarmingly over the years, going from 1 in 2500 kids in 1994 to approximately 1 in 166 kids in 2004. There is still far too much speculation and not enough facts regarding what causes autism, and what can be done to help cure it, and the US government isn't putting the needed research dollars into figuring out either. Thus, private groups are filling the void, and this is one of the ways we're trying to help. If you want to support us, send a couple bucks over here: . We really appreciate all the help and kind words we've received over the years, and the many more we'll receive in the years to come - trust me, that if it weren't for friends, I don't think it's possible to cope with all the issues that come with having a kid struck with such a disease. Thanks to ya all.

<3

My thoughts are with you and your family, Blythe. A cousin of mine is autistic and having witnessed the trials and joys that he and his family have been through, I'll be walking with you in spirit.

IRL, I'm home in the sleepy I was born in. Trying to walk off a bit of excess baggage.

Pretty town. And good to see you again.

Thanks WW, and I agree with Fuj in both respects - gorgeous town, and good to hear from you. :)