Bitter Sweet 16

It is crazy to think that it would have been been my nephew Diego's 16th birthday today.

He died suddenly, a natural death, at the tender age of 8.



I think sometimes, what is there to learn from his death???
Ever learning.


I tell myself so often to appreciate family and friends.
And again, to NOT take anything for granted.
Because we never know when the good Lord will take them.
To their true home.


I try hard to enjoy our kids.
Never taking them for granted.
Which is hard at times.
But, I do try.
To let them live the life that was meant for them.
Not to have them be what I want them to be.
Or do what I think they should do.
To support them in their passions.


Somehow, someway, it has led our family to unschooling.
I think Diego's death had something to do with this path.
The road less traveled.


Kids keep us young and make us look to the future.
I love their-
goofiness.
tenderness.
love.
tantrums.
Yes, even their tantrums.

Their-
creativity.
playfulness.
willingness to learn.
lack of patience.
happiness.
independence.
kindness.
and their life.


I tell myself to not be sad that Diego is not here.
He is in heaven and enjoying all of it, I'm sure.
Whatever all of it--means.
And someday I will reunite with him.
What a GRAND day that will be.



But I sure miss that kid.
Yesterday, today, and always.
Here on earth.
A LOT.