Lessons Learned

As we celebrated Thanksgiving last week in Atlanta with family I was overcome with just how much we have to be thankful for. This year, more than any before I truly appreciated and gave thanks for health. Last week a friend lost his

3 year battle with brain cancer and it brought me to my knees as I questioned why his children will grow up without him. I cannot make sense of why these things happen, other than to believe that death is a chance for the rest of us to appreciate life, to make changes for the better and to truly live in the moment.

This

is my m

oment to appreciate and honor all of my children.

As Maggie's language rapidly develops I am continually in awe of her resiliency

and determination. She is honestly THE happiest little girl I have ever encountered. She faces the world with

optimism & courage

every single da

y. You cannot be around Maggie without having a huge smile plastered on your face. She radiates when she smiles and it truly is contagious. As she hears herself talk, she will often stop and say, "I hear Maggie talking." She is practically overwhelmed by the sound of her own voice and the fact that others are understanding her now. She has taught me to never take my hearing for granted and to be joyful for even the smallest of triumphs.

Self-discipline, charm, integrity, silliness and confidence are the heart of my sweet Ava.

Whether she is on the soccer field, at gymnastics, playing piano, or on the theatre stage she

gives 110%

and always strives to do better. She loves to excel at everything and has a competitive flair that I must admit I love! Her heart is full of kindness and love whether she is teaching Maggie in he

r little school house, brushing the dogs or cleaning her room she does it with a happy heart. Despite desperately wanting to go home she never says it in front of her brother (only secretly to me) for fear of hurting his feelings. Ava teaches me everyday about loving more and worrying less. Her precious little voice is all I need to hear and I cannot help but be brought to the here and now. It is through her eyes that I see the beauty and magic

that this world has to offer.

My sweet boy Hayden, now ten-years-old is the most intuitive, compassionate and emotionally wise person I have ever met. He was born an old soul and has forever been the

best on giving advice to others. He is a natural born therapist! Hayden can carry on a conversation with

anyone, regardless of age or background. He particularly likes to sit next to a stranger on the plane and learn their e

ntire life story. He is fascinated by the workings of relationships and why people make the choices they do. He exudes charm and has a smile that lights up his entire face. His sense of humor and goofiness are at an all time high these days, even if I don't understand half of it. Hayden teaches me about saying what's in my heart, not what's on my mind. He forgives and loves with every ounce of his being. He is proof that healing can happen when your heart and mind are open.

I am thankful and honored for the opportunity to raise these sweet beings & to learn so much about myself along the way.

Amanda

"The soul is healed by being with children." ~ FYODOR DOSTOEVSKY