When "Thank You" Just Doesn't Cut It

There she was. A teeny little four month old baby being evaluated for developmental delays. I was super hesitant and a little afraid of what they were going to tell me. When we arrived, I was greeted with warm smiles and everyone sitting on the floor waiting for us in a big room with toys. They were sitting on the floor -- I'm a kindergarten teacher. I love sitting on the floor! My guard went down instantly. 

There we were with several therapists, working for ECI, who were just evaluating. They wouldn't be her actual therapists. I was disappointed. I loved them already. Little did I know, God had the Dream Team in store for us. 

Fast forward. 

Here we are, nearly two and a half years later. My tiny baby who couldn't sit up, hold her head up, move around or eat by mouth, is now doing all of those things. Are those the things a typical three year old does? Sure. And they do much more. But for Landree, it's huge progress and we'll take it! 

Today,we celebrated. We celebrated this beauty. 

We celebrated all of her progress and how far she's come. But the "guests of honor" weren't Landree, they were these amazing ladies. 

Six of the best and most loving group of ladies I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. This, is our Dream Team. And what a team they are. They all work individually and collaboratively to get Landree where she needs to be. I know she's not aware yet, but I plan on letting her know just how lucky she was to have had all of these ladies working alongside of her. 

I wanted them to have a night of relaxation and fellowship. And that's what we did. We sat around, ate and chatted it up! What fun!!

My living room was full and so was my heart. Am I utterly devastated we're losing these fabulous ladies? Yes. But I'm so fortunate to have had them, for a time, for my girl. I couldn't have asked for a better group to work with my girl. I'll be missing them ona weekly basis, but something tells me, we will still all be in touch. 

How do you thank a person who's been behind and supported you and your child every step of the way? Not real sure but I do know that "thank you" doesn't even seem to scratch the surface when it comes to expressing my true gratitude. 

Thank you to Janet, Kara, Emilie, Carrie, Debbie, and Blair. Without you and ECI, I'm not sure where we'd be and what little progress Landree would've made. She thrived not only because you all are just downright good at your job, but because she thrives on the love you showed her. That means more to me than anything. 

I would hope, that if your child is ever recommended any ECI services, you  accept them. My goodness, why wouldn't you want help, love, encouragement and support from a group of people who are more than willing to provide that {and a support system for me, as well}. Don't let fear and denial get in the way of your child's success. 

It's been a great {almost} three years. As we move on to the next chapter in Landree's life, I hope we look back on it as fondly as this one. I'm so thankful for this experience.