I saw something today that absolutely amazed me and nearly brought me to tears. Since birth, Bailey has not been able to put all of her weight on her left leg or balance on her left leg. This fact made getting dressed, putting on shoes, etc. a bit of a challenge. All of my cajoling never did anything to make her work on strengthening that leg...SO! Imagine my utter delight when, after just nearly 12 weeks in her dance class at school, she is able to put all of her weight on that leg and bear the weight for a bit as well! She has balance, and is able to do yoga poses as well as her dance moves. WEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!
I often wonder if teachers realize the power/influence they have their students. I also wonder if they hear from the parents just how great they are sometimes or is it just when we are unhappy with them that they hear from us? Well, I don't know if Bailey's dance teacher will read this...so I will most certainly place a call to her on Monday morning to sing her praises. She knows of Bailey's limitations and handles them in the most exceptional way possible. She encourages Bailey to compete against her own best efforts and while she never forces Bailey to do more than she is capable of, she certainly holds her to a higher standard.
Hats off to Ms. Franklin! Your encouragement, dedication and results have made this Hip and Sassy Momma VERY excited!!! Thanks to you, Bailey is learning to push her body beyond the mental barriers she has set for herself; and, she is proving to herself that she can do anything she sets her mind to! Thanks for your support!
...came across your blog and read all around. The hair on my neck bristled and I could feel your excitement and joy. I have been very blessed with my family and children. Reading about you and your daughters struggles and preserverence has allowed me to put my small challenges in perspective. I admire your family's strength and courage.
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