Summer 2011 -

What can I say? It's been a long 5 years and we have learned A LOT! Probably more than we have ever wished. Reese continues to be an amazing little girl, with a spirit about her that is truly unbelievable. One would think that her physical disability would dampen this - but, it may be the reason she has the spirit that she has and the amazing outlook that she does. She has had to make adaptations to the world that most of us (me included), would never know how or what to do with. She has done this with grace, courage and determination - all while constantly smiling, laughing and loving every minute of life.

This last year has been an incredible learning lesson. Balance. Acceptance. Slowing down and doing what we can. Not trying to keep up, or be frustrated with what we can't do. Taking a break from things we don't want to do. And remembering that we may have to do things differently and that we may have to do things that we may not want to do.

So, what have we done? Well, sort of not much, but maybe a lot bc of making emotional decisions about what to do / what not to do? We have taken a break from therapies. We take SLOW walks around the block pushing a way too expensive baby stroller. We have installed railings in our house. We have learned to create and enjoy activities that we wouldn't have thought of (summer sledding). We received an adaptive bike from 2 angels foundation. We have purchased a bike to allow the whole family (yes, Georgia too) to go on a fun ride. We have had more play dates - which is a joy! And, Reese turned 5 and started kindergarten. agh!

So, new milestones of sorts...but also just continued acceptance, adaptations and love and joy, no matter how hard it is. But, I have to say - it IS hard. I don't know if I can say it has gotten any easier. My cousin asked me this, and it was a hard question to answer. In some ways, yes. She has more words and can speak more clearly (I think). She can move around in her own way better than she has ever been able to. She can play more easily by herself. And she can play with friends! These things have certainly made it a bit easier. But, she is also getting heavier, and my arms are back get tired and strained.

But, thank goodness for family helping out! Reese loves everyone! But, especially her grandparents (and her aunties...of course)! We couldn't do it without everyone's love and support. So, thank you! xo

Will keep you updated to how Kindergarten is going. She is going to Bromwell. They have a program for kids with physical disabilities. So, I am thrilled about this. But, it is still hard to leave her knowing how much help she needs doing so many things. But, I love that I was most nervous about PE, and guess what her favorite class is? Yep - PE. So, what do I know?