With Appreciation

Anyone who really knows me will tell you that I am not typically at a loss for words. If you want to know my thoughts, or even if you didn't ask, I won't hesitate to tell you, which may not always work in my favor!  However, I was quite puzzled when trying to decide what I would write about in my first post.  I've been pondering all week.  There are many topics about which I would like to write, mainly on the topic of speech and language, either for the parents of the kiddos I have on my caseload or for fellow professionals.  I would also love to share information that I have found regarding health and wellness, another topic of interest for me.  Then there are all the mommy tips and pointers that I am learning along the way that I plan to share.  Where to begin???  The pressure of the first post...

Well, I decided to speak from the heart and write about what has been on my mind this past week, and that is the importance of appreciating every moment we share with family and friends because, as we all know, it can change in the blink of an eye.  I look at my children each day and am so thankful for their health and happiness, as well as being so appreciative of having a great husband and supportive parents, siblings, in-laws, and friends.  I know this sounds cliche but it is really how I am feeling at this point in time.  Just last week, a young dad in town lost his battle with leukemia after being diagnosed just ten months ago.  How quickly our lives can change course.  We really have no idea what is waiting for us just ahead.  I try to remind myself each day to keep it all in perspective and not to waste too much negative energy on petty nonsense and the "small stuff."  Sometimes this is easier said than done, I know.  We all get wrapped up from time to time and forget to really stop to think about what we have and fully appreciate it.  Perhaps we do feel thankful inside, but I know for me, I don't express my gratitude as much as I should.  Don't know what you've got till it's gone, right?

So then, I want to give a shout out and say, "Thank you," not only to my family and friends and the powers above, but to the parents of my little kiddos in therapy.  I am so thankful that you share your children with me!  I am grateful to have them all in my life.  I truly enjoy working with them and continue to learn and grow as a therapist during our time together.  I happen to have a wonderful group of parents right now who are extremely supportive and active in the therapy process.  Each of your children has his or her own set of gifts and talents and although speech/language might be a challenge for now, they should know that they are special and loved and appreciated for the happiness they bring to our lives.  It is a pleasure to see your children each week and I have so much fun working with them.  Thank you for bringing them into my life!