With these struggles, my mind will wander to what life would have been like had Phoebe been born…well, normal.  (average- typical) It’s not productive, but I do think it’s natural to think this way.  Would she be playing sports?  Would she be a cheerleader?  Maybe.  Maybe not.   Then I come back around to thoughts that this child is amazing.  She doesn’t play sports, but she certainly LOVES to watch them.  She loves Michigan State (who doesn’t?), loves her Tigers (and all their names and stats- and sobbed when Austin Jackson left), loves the Lions, and simply loves most things Big Ten.  She has known the names in our family since she was 2 1/2 years old.  We would make lists of the names and she would point to them when we would ask.  She recognized everyone.  She’ll remember where you live, your dogs name, your kids names, your spouses name, and whether you sleep alone or not. (Yes, that can be embarrassing)  She keeps me on schedule and on-task.  She never lets me forget anything.  She’s an amazing big sister and makes sure her brother is well taken care of. She adores him.  

I don’t know what the future holds for Phoebe.  Will she have boyfriends?  Get married?  Have children??  All doubtful.  However, she has proven me wrong before.  Her improvements this year are great, and I see her maturing slowly each month.  Even though she’s difficult, and trying at most times…I’ll take her.  She has made me realize that life isn’t about all those things that didn’t happen…it’s about all the things that did. (and will)

Here’s to you Phoebe.  My unique girl. 

You drive me crazy.  🙂 (I think that’s normal?)