Moving Forward

In September, Ashley had her second baby, a little girl named Skylar. I was away at school when she had the baby, but everyone else in my family was at the hospital when she had her. It's the times like that that I really miss living at home. So far, Aubrey loves being around her little sister. Ashley takes lots of pictures of her girls, and Aubrey always smiles when she is with Skylar. Once again, the new baby has brought lots of joy and happiness to my family. I can't wait to spend more time with her over and the rest of my family over winter break.

Aubrey and her new baby sister Skylar.

Big sister Aubrey rocking little sister Aubrey to sleep.
With the support of her daddy, she is able to stand up!

Aubrey on her first day of preschool. Love her smile!

Today, Aubrey started her first day of preschool at a school called Easter Seals. This is a school that is reserved for those children with disabilities and special needs. Aubrey needs this type of care because the employees there are specialized to improve the lives of impaired children. She attends school Monday through Friday, from 9 in the morning until 2 in the afternoon. She even rides a bus to school, which she loves. The best part about this school is that it tries to give as normal of an education to its students as possible. Because Aubrey goes to school now, it allows Ashley time for herself and to take care of her new baby. This new routine will suit their family well.

My cousins and I got together to take photos over Thanksgiving break
as a Christmas gift to our grandma. This is the first time
we have done this, and it is because we are growing stronger
relationships with each other. 

Since starting college, I have been thinking about my cousin Aubrey a lot. I think about the journey she has been through so far, and I think about how much more she has to offer the world. Then, I think about my family and how this has impacted us. I have always been close to my family, but ever since Aubrey was diagnosed with this disease, we have become even closer. Ashley comes around the family more than she ever has before and that is because of Aubrey. The relationship everyone has with Aubrey is unlike any other, but the one thing in common is that we all love her unconditionally.
If there is one thing I learned in my life, it's this: No matter how terrible something can be, if you have your family surrounding you, you learn to cope with each other and eventually it brings you closer than ever before.