Frustrated with the process, I reached out to our Facebook community. As always, our community jumped into action. Suggestions, ideas, and then the offer of the YO Ranch. A family friend had an ATV. She offered her husband to drive Magnolia and Catherine in their ATV, then she mentioned she would talk to the YO Ranch. I'm not sure this adventure would have happened if she hadn't helped us. She knew we loved to give Magnolia a full life and she knew it was safe to do with Magnolia and Catherine. Kindness always wins, y’all!

Finally, we made it to Texas to ATV. Having never done this before, we weren’t really sure what to expect. Magnolia was uncomfortable for most of the ride. She enjoyed moments, which you see, but she hadn’t slept well the night before, which also meant I didn’t sleep well. We were both up most of the night. She was overly tired and had a hard time eating breakfast because of that.

That’s Rett syndrome though. You never know what you’re gonna get from day to day. We checked in with Maggie and, even though she wasn’t feeling herself, she let us know she didn’t want to give up. That’s Rett syndrome too. An indomitable spirit that bends but never breaks.

Even though it was harder than I had anticipated, overall, the experience was great. The ranch was lovely and the folks there so welcoming and helpful. It was great to spend time with Amber and see our girls, all grown up, together. Bringing my sister and niece along for the adventure was an added bonus. And I did not expect to get chased by an ostrich.

Since going on this adventure, I have continuously thought of what I could have done to adapt the ATV experience for Maggie. Usually she loves speed but in these ATVs, she didn't, maybe because it was too loud or dusty, maybe it was too bouncy. Of course, when we figured out we should use the blankets for support instead of warmth, Maggie got a lot more comfortable. Finding the balance of excitement, comfortability, safety, and communication is key when trying new things.