1 year ago...

Today is the 1 year mark from when Grace was admitted into the hospital. It has been good to think of where we were and how far we have come. I had no idea how bad RSV could be until Grace. It was one of the most difficult things I have ever been through in my life. There was nothing harder than watching her so sick and so miserable.

There are parts of it that have faded a way a bit. That is probably a good thing. There are other parts of the whole experience that I will never ever forget.

I never would have chosen for Grace to get so sick. Not in a million years. And yet looking back, I am so grateful for the experience, for what I learned, and for what I know for certain.

Before, there were a million things I wished for and wanted. When I was in the hospital with her it reminded me that NONE of that mattered. Not at all. The only thing that mattered was my family. It is amazing how simple your prayers and your thoughts become.

There were so many things that happened during that long week and a half that I never blogged. Things that were too personal for everyone in the world to read. I had experiences that changed my life and the way I look at everything. I never want to forget that... ever.

We live in an awesome neighborhood with amazing people. We were so blessed to have so many people help us out. I have never liked the idea of people doing things for me. I have always been a pretty independent girl. So for people to make dinners and offer to help with my kids was tough for me but at the same time so much appreciated. And it didn't kill me to let people help! :)

I am grateful for my children, my husband, my family, my life. Simple enough. Never waste a chance to hug them and tell them how much they mean to you.

"And it is still true, no matter how old you are--when you go out into the world, it is best to hold hands and stick together."