One Year Ago

It doesn’t seem right to post this week without at least mentioning the fact that it was a year ago that Ellie was in the hospital.  We have come so far.  I have done much thinking leading up to this year mark and remembered the days leading up to it.  I have remembered each day as it has passed.  Ellie even brought it to my attention the other day.  She saw a chocolate bunny in the store the other day and I had put one on her white hospital bed each night after I visited for dinner, hidden under her pillow. She always pretended not to notice.  When we saw one in the store, Ellie said, “look mom, remember the bunny.”  I told her that meant it had been a year. 

She, my eight-year-old, grabbed my hand and said, “we have come a long way.” Wise beyond her years and mine.  We spoke about what she had learned, some of the kids she met while she was there.  We talked about where we are now.  We hugged in the store.  I was happy.  So proud of her.  So, I lift my glass, and pause and think though we are not quite done… but, I have the best side-kick I could ask for.  A year ago was probably the lowest a person could get.  Today, we both get out of bed and take on the day.  For that, I am thankful. 

Ellie, I love you and am as proud as I could be of you.