Well, wonders never cease! He was there on time for a change. I guess he was as excited about the day as your son was. I have a feeling the drone had something to do w/him being on time and wanting to share it w/you and your son.
Overall, it sounds like everyone enjoyed themselves. I'm glad things went okay today.
He's remembering the fun places that you two went. That's a good memory for him. Keep listening and validating. Those memories are what he needs to think about right now.
Hang in there!
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.