Keep Calm ...

"This too shall pass, just keep calm and carry on ..."

This statement has become my motto, a daily mantra of sorts.  Lately, I've been having to repeat it over and over again to maintain my sanity.  These past few days have been hard, and I'm not exactly sure why.  It's been a trail of never-ending confusion, stress, and worry, sadness and frustration, with some anxiety to top it all off.  Could it be lack of sleep?  The endless attention that my 3 year old all of a sudden requires and the whining/crying/falling apart that follows when he doesn't get what he wants?  The flood of memories brought about by old photos?  The fact that, as much as I try to ignore it, that Father's Day is tomorrow?  The every day reality of having to go it on my own, without my partner to stand by me, help me, and hold me up?  The lack of control that I feel over my life right now?

I've just felt out of sorts this past week ... and just hoping that this, too, shall pass.

This picture of Damien was from the 4th of July, 2009.  It always amazed me that he could smile and truly be happy, no matter what.  At this point, he had to wear the oxygen 24/7, and had a difficult time getting around.  But he was happy to have his family & friends - just to be with us.  I try to draw strength from that ... he has taught me a lot.

Just breathe ...