What a month!

Even though in some ways I have more time on my hands these days, in many ways I feel busier or struggle to get things done. I am someone who thrives on schedule and planning so this has been an adjustment for sure! But I figure we can all use some smiles so i am going back to show some of the fun we have had over the last month (especially before quarantine)!

At the end of February, Maddy was able to visit the Elementary school she will attend next year for Storytime. It was supposed to be monthly through the end of the school year, but...

 We were also so blessed to attend our fourth TCU Dance marathon. This is a day that is always special to us. We are able to share our story and thank the amazing students who work hard to raise money for Children's Miracle network Hospitals and Cook Children's. And did I mention it is SO fun!

Of course there was the usual ballet and horseback riding and playing with friends. The second week of march right before all of this craziness really took off, Maddy had the opportunity to go to Horseback Riding Camp for 3 days. She LOVED every minute of it! They fed and bathed the horses, cuddled, puppies, fed a camel, and of course rode a lot!

Camp is exhausting!

feeding Muffin, "her" horse for the week

The day after camp ended is when the Coronavirus quarantine mostly started for us. We did have one more doctor's appt, but otherwise we have pretty much not left the house. It has been an adjustment, but overall is going well. Maddy has been amazing with homeschooling and I have very easily added one more student to the Beckwith Academy of Excellence. For years, people have asked me if I would homeschool Maddy and my answer has always been a resounding NO! I always said one of us would be dead within days. Well I stand corrected. My sweet girl has been near perfect. She is working hard and has given none of the attitude and sassiness I expected.  She is reading, writing, doing math, arts and crafts, science experiments.  And our day always ends with some family game time. We have had so much fun playing board and card games late each afternoon before I start making dinner!

I posted on FB this morning one of my very favorite songs, Beautiful Heartbreak. I will end with the same prayer I offered there. May you all find some beauty in the heartbreak over these coming days. Prayers for peace in the uncertainty and love and kindness for all around us. 

Ali

Running Crazy

The past few weeks have been absolutely crazy! It has been a mix of volunteer work, fun times and medical appointments. But all together I haven't known if I am coming or going.

We returned from Disney and were surprised when the commercial we filmed for Cook Children's hospital was aired during the Super Bowl pregame show! We had no idea it would be airing and it was so fun to see it on such a big day. That week we also attended Cook Children's day at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo and Alex and I spoke on the importance of listening to patients and Families at the Town Hall for all 8,000 employees in the Cook Children's Medical System.

Fun at the Rodeo

While Alex and I were busy at the hospital, Maddy kept busy with ballet and Hippotherapy.

Maddy was really excited for her Valentine's Day party at school.

Last week started with a quick trip to Houston to see our Immunologist. As hard as it is to make this trip. The love this amazing woman and doctor has for my children is incredible. She has fought as hard as anyone (other than me) to keep Alex alive through the years. She has stood in the PICU with me, cried with me, answered calls at all times of the day and night, and even met Alex when he was life flighted without me.

The week closed out with horses and our Sweetheart Dance.

These days are so precious. I love watching these two overcome so much to show the world how amazing life can be when you choose joy. Thank you to all of you who love us well.

Ali