This is the reminder of my children’s truth. They are autistic and we are more proud of them than ever before. When I had this done we weren’t even sure what laid ahead for us.

Nathan didn’t communicate unless it involved crying. Blake was still so advanced that he made my head spin. Things my brothers did at age 3 and 4 he was doing at age 2.5. Just blew my mind. I knew I had wanted a way to remember our life’s journey. I knew we were in for one heck of a ride with these two boys.

I wasn’t sure what I had wanted to for them. We had a tattoo for our sweet girl but I wanted one for the boys as well. This was perfect. We are slowly putting together our puzzle. This is our past journey, our present journey and our future journey. This is a tattoo I wear with pride. Our children each day get us to think, and push us to places of love and frustration I didn’t know was possible. I marvel at their smarts and problem solving skills. Their compassion for those around them. While they may not play with the kids but next to them without interaction, when one is hurt they get it. My kids and their dog are on a whole other playing field. The dog is so in tune with what they need. If they need a snuggle or need to burn energy. He gets it. The funny thing is they get the dog.

Those pieces pictured above are so accurate to my children. They are like a puzzle everyday. One day something works and the next it doesn’t but three months down the road that technique will be back to working. So my little puzzles will forever be with me. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Thanks to the sweet old lady who reminded me as to why I have this fantastic piece of art. I can’t tell you how many times I get asked about it. I am always happy to share the story. Sweet old lady was Glad to know It wasn’t a mistake but to honor them.

Please go learn more about the puzzle at Autism Speaks

Sarah can be found blogging at Caiafa Craziness.