Today Papa grabbed the camera to document day two of the Great Short Bus Adventure. Live gave his goofiest grin for posterity and we cheered as he drove off. I worried he would have problems, but he enjoys the ride and comes home calmer than when I drive him. The boat-like swaying of the bus soothes him.

I am happy this is working out, yet I feel guilty because the bulk of his day is at school. That’s eight hours. Eight hours!

When I first realized this, I sunk into a funk. I quit my job to be a mom. I visualized the quality time I would spend with my child and how I would help prepare him for an amazing, balanced life. After brooding for most of the day, I got over it.

Liev cycles through nine teachers and twelve peers each day. He needs playmates, plural, playmates, and structure. I work phenomenally hard to provide structure and routine, but there is no way I can meet his socialization needs. I cannot replace the twelve kids that play by his side. One day, Liev will graduate to public school and the skill and tolerance he has gained here will benefit him.