Kick Your Obstacles to the Curb: Live Your Dream

This is a true story taken from my book, "Flying By the Seat of My Soul." 

The Guts

My daughter Kristy was born without most of her right hand, including her fingers. Throughout her life Kristy was determined to be like other kids. In order to be accepted she needed to do what the others did. 

When her sisters began playing sports, she wanted to play as well. She played softball, soccer and basketball.There were times her stub would be cracked and bleeding. She played anyway.

Hubs put up a basketball hoop and paved our driveway. He spent hours challenging her to be better and play harder. She spent her free time endlessly shooting hoops and going to summer camps. She constantly challenged guys to play one on one with her. She would go to the park and find a way to get in the games there.

She never gave up. We couldn't either.

The Dream

Kristy graduated from high school in the top ten percent of her class. She was also voted "female athlete of the year." Her dream was to play sports at a college level, and she chose the University of Chicago.

We didn't know the cost of the tuition at the University of Chicago. We never checked it out. Kristy wanted to go there because it was a Division III school, and she felt she would have a better chance to play. It's also one of the best schools in the country.

We sent a video of Kristy playing to the women's basketball coach at U of C. A few months later, she called us for an appointment. Sitting in her office, I picked up a brochure that stated tuition was twenty-nine thousand a year (This was in 1994). I passed the brochure to Kristy and Hubs, and at the same time mouthed the price behind the coaches back.

We were dumbfounded, "clueless," as my kids would put it. Often times I get so excited about life that I just forge ahead without gathering all the facts. I never even inquired about the cost of tuition there. Therefore, we never let the cost prevent Kristy from applying.

The Sign

As we stood in the coach's office, she told us they were reviewing Kristy's case in the financial aid department as we spoke. She told us to come back in four hours for their decision.

We walked around the campus silently. What else could we say? "Kristy, you can't go here. We can't afford it." 

I asked for a sign that we were doing the right thing, that this was the right school for Kristy. I needed to know that we were on the right path. 

As we strolled the campus, I continued to pray for a sign. Our belief in Kristy kept us going; we were also inspired by her. Her dream was to play ball at a college level. We were not about to give up now.

The Fun

One of the fun things about being so young and raising four daughters so close in age was that we had a lot of the same interests. We liked the same activities, sports, movies and music. Even though I was their mom, I could relate well on other levels.

For example, Kristy and I were both runners, and we listened to the same music when we ran. We learned to roller blade and entered races together. The year she graduated from high school, a group of musicians called "Ace of Base" were popular. 

As we walked back to the coach's office, a red convertable with its sunroof open and radio playing passed by us. The song that came to my ears was "I saw a sign" by Ace of Base. At that moment, as crazy as it might seem, I knew we were in the right place!

The Miracle

I thought of it as synchronicity. In a matter of minutes, the coach informed us that Kristy would receive a grant that would cover three quarters of her tuition. We looked at the situation as a miracle.

When you worry about expenses or about how unfair life is and doubt what is possible, you become stuck. Life becomes limited. Victimhood limits your vision of what life could be. 

Abundance is a state of mind. Prosperity is a choice.

We wanted the best for our children and weren't willing to settle for anything less. I was determined they would have the education I missed out on at their age. 

The Determination

During her junior year, Kristy had three different part time jobs to help pay for her living expenses. She played soccer and basketball for two years. She loved the excitement of traveling every week with her teammates to other cities. This opened up a new world for Kristy. It not only strengthened her faith, it taught her that when a mountain seems too high, the only choice is to scale it and keep the faith!

Check out what Jane posted at Teeny Tiny Pieces after reading this post and Mary posts my story on GoodLifeZen. Thanks wonderful readers for contributing to my success. It's because of all of you that I'm doing so well!

What are  your obstacles and challenges?

How do you overcome them?

Enjoy the song and let me know the scoop in the comment box below.

{ 74 comments… add one }

  • Katie January 31, 2011, 12:17 pm

    Listening to Ace of Base and smiling ear to ear. Your daughter’s story is amazing, uplifting and inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing it, Tess. I love a good hero story — she’s the hero and so are you and your husband for being such great parents.

    Reply
    • Tess January 31, 2011, 5:47 pm

      Hi Katie,
      Still love that song. Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your thoughts. You’ve made my day.

      Reply
  • Millie Jackson January 31, 2011, 12:22 pm

    This is very inspiring!

    Reply
    • Tess January 31, 2011, 5:48 pm

      Millie,
      Thanks for reading my blog and commenting too! She continues to inspire everyone who knows her.

      Reply
  • Marci January 31, 2011, 1:17 pm

    Ace of Base brings me way back :)

    You are a great story teller Tess! “Abundance is a state of mind” – love this.

    I overcome obstacles with sweat and persistence! I’m naturally curious, so I look at it from all angles. I’m not want to jump in with both feet until I’m sure it’s for me. But when I do jump in, I go for it. This post reminds me of Miley Cyrus’ song “The Climb.”

    Reply
    • Tess January 31, 2011, 5:50 pm

      Marci,
      I would expect nothing less of you. You success shines. Climbing the mountain seems like a great task but just circling the base of the mountain doesn’t work for me!

      Reply
  • Charlotte January 31, 2011, 3:14 pm

    We always told our kids they could go anywhere they wanted, assuming they’d choose the state school we attended. Then our son chose a small, private and very expensive college…gulp. But I’ve never regretted it.

    Your daughter is an inspiration, as is this story.

    My biggest obstacle is my own self-talk. I catch myself being negative in sneaky ways, since I’ve dealt with the obvious ways. But I’m getting better at correcting myself every day.

    Reply
    • Tess January 31, 2011, 5:51 pm

      Charlotte,
      Yes I understand we all have an inner chatter box. I like to observe mine and then turn it off. Kind of like flippin’ a light switch!

      Reply
  • Mandy Allen January 31, 2011, 4:48 pm

    Sadly I can’t listen to the video, it says it won’t play in my country…and I thought youtube was universal! We must always have faith and hope.

    Enjoy the journey.

    Mandy

    Reply
    • Tess January 31, 2011, 5:52 pm

      Mandy Allen,
      I’m sorry about that! The story is better than the video;) so you aren’t missing much! Yes always faith and hope, if we lose those we’re in trouble. Keep the faith!

      Reply
  • Galen Pearl January 31, 2011, 5:03 pm

    What a great story. As a parent with several kids with various disabilities, I am thrilled to read about kids who overcome with the support of parents who believe in them. Thank you!!

    Reply
    • Tess January 31, 2011, 5:53 pm

      Galen,
      Several kids with disabilities? I admire you and know they are blessed to have your as a parent. Blessings and love to you and your family.

      Reply
  • Andrea January 31, 2011, 6:41 pm

    I remember reading this story in your book and having a personal connection to you and your family fills me with pride and admiration. My kids know Kristy and love her and look up to her. They are amazed at her accomplishments and we all love her dearly. Knowing your other daughters as well, I know that each one
    is a product of yours and U. Roger’s love. They are all beautiful women inside an out and I am honored to be related to all of you! I so enjoy reading your blogs! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 4:51 am

      Hi Andrea,
      Thank you for your love and we feel the same way about your family as well. Kristy told me how much fun you have when you visit. I can see you at the farm with the twins playing with your dolls! I’ll see you at the wedding. xoxo

      Reply
  • Kristy January 31, 2011, 7:14 pm

    Mom, wow! I am honored to be your daughter (dad’s too). I have no doubt I learned about guts, determiniation, and sheer commitment from you and dad. I am sitting in my hotel room with my eyes full of tears that represent joy and a heart that is full of gratitude. I am who I am today b/c you and dad never told me this big world we live in had limits to what I could do, what I could experience and ultimately who I could become. I remember your favorite quote to share with me when times were difficult for me in school, sports, or with friends due to my hand… “this too shall pass.” Indeed, mom, you always remind me (yes, even at 34) that no mountain is too high. It is about scaling it and keeping the faith. Some of my fondest memories are roller blading with you around Reed’s Lake, running numerous times with you down Lake Drive through East Town, and of course, cruising in dad’s convertible at U of C. Dad was always ready to push me to the next level–even his idea in getting a car that was had no power steering and was a stick shift. He believed in me for sure! I think he really believed I was the boy he never had. Through all of it, you and dad as well as my wonderful sisters made me feel ‘whole’ as a person despite having one hand. You taught me inner beauty came from within. Thanks to you and dad, I truly believe that any dream is possible with shear desire, will, and determination. I love you both so much…. Rock on and let’s get ready for Seattle…this is making me hungry for another marathon : ) ….love, your Kricky…..

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 4:59 am

      Kristy,
      I wonder how many times I ran around Reeds Lake in the years we lived there.
      We sure were blessed to live in that town. And who can forget Randy taking you to get those expensive basketball shoes! Oh and Tom Nuyens running the race with you in Grand Haven, you and Laurie and I in the rollerblading race. I was thrilled to come in only minutes behind you two. Talk about the opportunity to stay young at heart, you girls gave it to me. Now the grandchildren do. I still think you should write a book someday.
      Let me know when you and Pete want to talk commitment about Seattle!
      Love mom xoxox

      Reply
  • Kristy January 31, 2011, 7:16 pm

    I was just jamming to Ace of Base totally reminiscing…. OMG! Those were the days….

    Reply
  • Evita January 31, 2011, 7:43 pm

    Hi Tess

    Yes! I wish you could see the huge smile on my face as I write this! I loved what you wrote about abundance and prosperity! Yes, it is all so much a state of mind!

    What a beautiful story and what a phenomenally happy ending! You were open enough to getting a sign and you were conscious and… there it came, and then some :)

    And what a treat to see Kristy here too and hear from her a bit about her experiences! You both rock!

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:03 am

      Evita,
      I’m happy I could inspire you today. I don’t know what to say except all the lessons and struggle and difficulty brought us an unimaginable abundance of good and love in life. I’m blessed to be your friend.

      Reply
  • Jane Rochelle January 31, 2011, 8:00 pm

    Hi Tess, and Kristy …
    This is a beautiful story! I love the relationship you have, and the way you seemed to help each other grow into strong, beautiful women. My son grew up much the same way … he’s an amazing young man now.

    Tess, thank you for reminding me to spend my life living. When you … “doubt what is possible, you become stuck. Life becomes limited.” I needed to hear that ~

    Sending hugs ~ Jane

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:16 am

      Jane,
      I love your blog as well. Please write about your son and tell us about him. Aren’t kids wonderful? Can imagine life without them. I’ll inspire you anytime…just contact me. Check out Jane’s story at http://www.teenytinypieces.com

      Reply
  • Ande Waggener January 31, 2011, 8:03 pm

    Tess, what an inspiring story! I applaud you and Kristy for believing in what CAN be done and not in what can’t be done. Staying conscious of the end and refusing to leave the path will take you to amazing places, as this story affirms. Thank you so much for sharing it!

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:09 am

      Ande,
      Thanks for stopping by, and thanks for the kudos. I had such a huge responsibility as a young mom. I was determined and tough. I thought about giving up several times but didn’t because I was taught to take responsibility, pray, seek help and keep putting one foot in front of the other. I did have on a card, this too shall pass. And the hardship did.

      Reply
  • Patti Foy | Lightspirited Being January 31, 2011, 8:48 pm

    What a great story, thanks for sharing it. I admire the courage ALL of you had, and likely still have to this day. And of course, I love the part about the sign. I got chills as I read it. So very cool.

    As for overcoming for me, sometimes it’s to forge ahead (Lord knows I’ve done my share of that) but sometimes it’s to accept that there’s something magical happening in the difficulty itself. The real trick is knowing how to tell the difference.

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:19 am

      Patti,
      Yes courage move me out of MI and into sunny AZ and courage helped me stayed married all these years, Now I’m applying it to my blog;) Thanks for yesterday. Mission accomplished!

      Reply
  • Angela Artemis January 31, 2011, 10:06 pm

    Tess, I loved this story when I read it in the book – still love it! It just goes to show you how you can limit yourself if you think small thoughts. Thank goodness for your daughter’s sake you didn’t do that! It all worked out beautifully.

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:20 am

      Angela,
      Thanks for reading my book! I don’t think small thoughts ever go through that girls head. She just moved into a management position and loves it. Thanks for being in my life. xoxo

      Reply
  • Bryan Thompson January 31, 2011, 11:01 pm

    Tess, what a miraculous post! Your daughter’s story reminds me of Napoleon Hill’s story – where his son was born without ears – and how the doctors never expected him to hear, speak, or get much out of life at all. With enough faith and determination from his parents, Hill’s son learned to get by and to communicate with others. Eventually, enough medical advancement made it possible to have hearing.

    Faith is an absolutely amazing thing. It gives us drive to see the impossible! Great reminder!

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:25 am

      Bryan,
      I forgot about that story! As parents and as a family we experience many blessings with a physically challenged daughter and sister. We never used “I can’t.” Never. Thanks for being here today.

      Reply
  • Marnie February 1, 2011, 6:49 am

    Wow, that song takes me back!

    My current challenge is probably what most people with kids, a job, and an entrepreneurial spirit confront – finding time. It seems to always be a battle. But I seem to be getting better at it because, just as Kristy believed, there’s no other choice but to succeed.

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:26 am

      Marnie,
      You can do it and you already know that as they grow up it does get easier. Then you look back at it all and miss it. LOL I sound old don’t I!

      Reply
  • Debbie Hampton February 1, 2011, 8:55 am

    I,too. take meaning in little insignificant things which would mean absolutely nothing to some one else. I see it as tuning into my own intuition and wisdom. Might be seen as a little crazy by others, but works for me. Let’s me know I am on the right path heading in the right direction.

    Thanks for sharing such an inspiring story. I did not know you had a book. Will check it out.

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:28 am

      Debbie,
      Life sure is easier living with faith and paying attention to intuition. Blessings on your path. And yes check my book out on the sidebar. It’s a page turner and quick read that’s full of stories and wisdom.

      Reply
  • Leah McClellan February 1, 2011, 10:32 am

    What a beautiful story, Tess! I didn’t get this far in the book yet, but what a wonderful example of not letting obstacles stop us. I had to laugh about the price of the university because I did the same thing, though it was for myself. I was taking classes in the evening, one per semester at an ivy league college because I only wanted the best for myself (or didn’t know what my options were, really)…until I discovered :::drum roll::: community colleges and state universities! lol Full-time it was, come hell or high water, as the saying goes, and I did it.

    I know what you mean about signs! That’s amazing about the song–wow. Couldn’t be more clear, I’d say.

    Good for you, Kristy! Good for you, Tess! You’re both awesome and such an inspiration :)

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:33 am

      Leah,
      Isn’t it great to find like minded friends? What university did you attend? That’s awesome. It sure has helped that she has it on her resume. We have no regrets and it was so fun to visit her in Chicago. I don’t think my husband missed a game. I did because towards the end of her Sophmore year she couldn’t keep up with the team. It was heart breaking for me to watch. Thanks Leah.

      Reply
      • Leah McClellan February 3, 2011, 8:44 am

        Yeah, like minds are great :) I had evening classes at UPenn at first. But then I realized that what I was paying for one class (on a waitress salary :) would get me a whole semester at the community college, and then I could transfer to a state university (Kutztown)…well I had to get practical, especially when I realized it would take 20 years at that rate to finish! The regular undergrad program wasn’t possible, not only due to cost but because I was very non-trad (hadn’t gone to high school, for starters). Shoot for the stars, land on the moon :)

        Reply
  • Lance February 1, 2011, 12:00 pm

    Tess,
    My kids call me clueless too!!!

    …I’m thinking it’s a good thing!!!

    What a great story of sticking with it….wow!!! Kristy is one very amazing individual, and I’m sure she gets a whole bunch of that from YOU!

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:34 am

      Lance,
      You bring up all good memories for me when I read about your family on your blog. I think that’s one big reason why we connect so well. Yes we’ll be clueless together.

      Reply
  • Chris Edgar February 1, 2011, 12:12 pm

    Hi Tess — this is definitely an inspiring story and it’s going to be an important one for me to remember as I face my own challenges. When I look around and I see only barriers it’s important to remember that greater barriers can be overcome.

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:36 am

      Chris,
      Great to see you here! Yes we can all get through our challenges together by remembering each other’s stories. Your comment means a lot!

      Reply
  • Dave February 1, 2011, 12:37 pm

    Hi Tess,

    What an uplifting story. I love that you didn’t research the cost of tuition before going to check out the college. It sounds like you might not have made the trip if you did, that’s a lovely piece of synchronicity right there, too.Reading your daughter’s comment on this post was every bit as inspiring as the post itself, I hope I have that kind of relationship with my sons when they’re adults.

    Cheers,
    Dave

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:37 am

      Dave,
      You’re exactly correct so that makes me clueless for a reason correct? LOL Kristy always was a writer. I keep telling her to write a book!

      Reply
  • Belinda February 1, 2011, 12:49 pm

    I love this story, Tess. I love how your daughter followed her passion, worked hard for it and showed us all that nothing has to stand in the way of our dreams. Your daughter is an inspiration and so are you and your husband.

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:38 am

      Belinda,
      Yes she inspires me now. I’m getting paid back! Thanks for coming over and joining the conversation.

      Reply
  • Debbie @ Happy Maker February 1, 2011, 1:21 pm

    Wonderful story. I can in someway identify with this story. I was a single parent with 3 daughters. All through elementary, middle and high school I told them that they weren’t through with there education until they finished college. (I never had the chance to go to college when I was young) I had no idea how this would get paid for, but with scholar ships and loans all three of them made it through college. I am so proud of them. Whether it be phycial or financial any situation can be overcome with the right attitude.
    Thanks for a heart warming story.
    Debbie

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:40 am

      Debbie,
      I admire you…there’s no way I could have raised them alone. That’s why we went to so much therapy.LOL And that’s what led me to getting a masters degree in psychology!

      Reply
  • Jannie Funster February 1, 2011, 5:22 pm

    Like Momma, like daughter. Brave, strong, never giving up.

    I really really like what you say about not letting the worried of how to finance something get you stuck. Sometimes even just a little money put towards something can give you the push you need.

    Such a lovely sporty family! You all make my day to read about!

    xxoo

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:41 am

      Jannie,
      Remember I’m mirroring you with the strong and brave stuff. You spot it you got it my friend! Yes a little money goes a long way with determination, action and faith.

      Reply
  • Keith February 1, 2011, 8:00 pm

    Hi Tess,

    I remember well this story from your book. It still shot straight to my heart when I read it again today. Tess, your family is freakin’ awesome! Seriously!

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:42 am

      Keith,
      Thanks for reading my book. And I know your family is freakin’ awesome as well from your blog. Rock on my friend.

      Reply
  • Jonathan Manor February 1, 2011, 8:50 pm

    Great post Tess. This really represents the idea of perseverance, and how doubt can limit someone from doing something when nothing has happened yet. It seems that nowadays more people live with self doubt than with any ambitions or will to go through with something. It’s great to see that even though you thought it was impossible, you were hoping for the best.

    Reply
  • Tess February 2, 2011, 5:44 am

    Jonathan,
    The key is to get great friends for support. I had so many and believe me I reached out! That’s why our stories are so important, for those who don’t yet believe.

    Reply
  • Megan "JoyGirl!" Bord February 2, 2011, 10:30 am

    Tess, no matter what you just keep on going, don’t you?! And your daughter does, too. That’s advice I’d be wise to heed. I love your energy and determination! Can I be like you when I grow up?! (And can I please “grow up” now?!)

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 2:29 pm

      Megan,
      You are too funny! I’d advise you to never grow up, I like you just the way you are;) xoxo

      Reply
  • Farnoosh February 2, 2011, 10:41 am

    Dear Tess, what a heart-warming story and what a courageous and brave daughter you have…..I am *so* proud of her and find her to be such sweet inspiration.
    My true inspiration comes from my much-younger brother who had an accident and lost vision in one eye and most of the other. He is also a prodigy child, a genius, a PhD student with jobs, offers from Google and conferences begging him to speak, and he is so smart it’s sick. (I am lucky he also works for me and for Prolific Living part-time)…..and he is my true inspiration. He has turned his handicap into a living opportunity. I love that. Thank you for a fantastic story!

    Reply
    • Tess February 2, 2011, 2:31 pm

      Farnoosh,
      I think you should write about your brother on your blog. You are both blessed to have each other’s support and love. Thanks for sharing a little bit about him. Tell him I said hello.

      Reply
      • Farnoosh February 2, 2011, 3:42 pm

        Tess, if I write that post, it’s gonna be for you, that’s for sure. Maybe someday. Thank you so much for being ever so supportive and sweet.

        Reply
  • Nea | Self Improvement Saga February 2, 2011, 11:16 am

    What a great story! Your daughter is blessed to have such supportive parents.

    Reply
  • Sandra I Always Well Within February 2, 2011, 3:10 pm

    Tess,

    What an amazing story! Kristy is awesome. She is so lucky to have you as a Mom. My challenges are tiny in comparison. Thank you both for the inspiration.

    Reply
    • Tess February 3, 2011, 5:39 am

      Sandra,
      Our entire family is blessed to have each other. It was so much work when I was young and now it’s just plain fun!

      Reply
  • John Sherry February 3, 2011, 1:17 am

    Tess, you bared your heart and soul in this story and the honesty and love that shines out makes a guy like me well up it was that moving. To share such true stories touches many people but is brave as you have to open up your life beyond your normal boundaries. I truly admire you for this and the warm way you present it.

    A few weeks ago I was unsure of my next steps and then saw a car number plate twice in the same day as a sign. Even more amazingly as I write this there is an advert on TV for a film called ‘Just Go With It’. What can you say? Sign delivered. With love and respect. John

    Reply
  • Tess February 3, 2011, 5:40 am

    John,
    Thanks for your wonderful compliment. These are the stories we need to share because we can all relate in some way. I love your sign and the license plate twice in one day…that’s amazing.

    Reply
  • Betsy at Zen Mama February 3, 2011, 9:27 am

    Wow! What a lesson! And I really needed to hear your quote: Abundance is a state of mind. Prosperity is a choice. (may I quote you tomorrow on Facebook for my Zen Tip?) I’ve always loved synchronicity and looking for signs. And isn’t it good you didn’t know any better about the cost of tuition. “Dumb luck” or “Ignorance is bliss” is so true! It keeps us from doing some things that we wouldn’t normally do! Thanks Tess, for a great post!

    My comment luv isn’t working all the time but my latest post is 15 Positive Quotes to Brighten Your Winter Day….

    Reply
  • Hilary February 3, 2011, 10:21 am

    Hi Tess .. what a lovely story, and wonderful family tale – with you all pulling together. Kristy is an inspiration … she’s always been a leader .. and she’s willing to go the extra mile – as you are for your family and your kids.

    Great to read about – thanks for sharing with us .. long may you all be happy .. with love Hilary

    Reply
  • Peggy February 3, 2011, 2:24 pm

    Dear Tess AND Kristy,

    I LOVE Kristy’s spirit. I loved her story in your book Tess! The best part of reading your blog is when you write about your kids, your family, your life. Every time I read about Kristy, I can’t help but be reminded of how much she’s like my Christina :-)

    Rock on ladies!!

    Love, Peggy

    Reply
  • Aileen February 3, 2011, 4:12 pm

    Tess, thank you for sharing this incredible story! It really is amazing how unstoppable a person can be when they are aligned with a vision of all possibilities. It’s a truth we all need to know and keep in mind. – life can appear to give us limitations and if we’re not wise, we can make the poor choice of believing the limitation will stop us. – you said it brilliantly,
    “When you worry about expenses or about how unfair life is and doubt what is possible, you become stuck. Life becomes limited. Victimhood limits your vision of what life could be.”

    Reply
  • Gijesh February 4, 2011, 4:31 am

    Thank you very much for sharing such an inspiring real story…thank u so much
    may god bless u ..

    Reply
  • Gary February 5, 2011, 9:01 am

    I found you a few months back and have real enjoyed your posts. My grandson was born with only the heel of his left foot. The only way you would know is if you know. He has a special shoe, of course, but participates in several different sports. My daughter has always de-emphasized the idea of “being different” and encouraged him to do anything he wanted to do physically. He does so with relish.

    Reply
  • Renee Alam February 5, 2011, 5:22 pm

    Hi.I found your blog under the 52 letters project and was hoping you could help us in our 2,011 letter project.We are trying to collect 2,011 letters from all around the world…it’s not just about getting the letters,but learning about other people and other countries,states,etc. We hope you can join to help us reach our goal…we are getting sign ups everyday,but have a long way to go. :) Please also help us spread the word if you can.Thanks!
    http://2011letters.blogspot.com

    Reply
  • Rand February 6, 2011, 10:38 pm

    Thank you Tess and Kristy!

    I have a life long knowledge and appreciation for what kind of motivation you have Kristy.

    My brother is gone now, but his love and strengh of being is still with me.

    He has left a path for me to follow…just as you have.

    Much peace and many more dreams for you to accomplish!

    Reply
  • Joy February 7, 2011, 4:07 am

    Hi Tess,
    *grin* I used to love this song..thank you! I see the signs all of the time..and I’m often called clueless as well..think it allows me to experience and appreciate magic and transforms ordinary to quite extraordinary.
    Amazing inspiration in the story you chose to share here..and Kristy’s comment brought tears to my eyes..so much love and joy..You chose to inspire your children to dream, then to allow them to live out those dreams..as you do with us as well:)
    The ‘success’ you have is a result of the energy that you share..thank *you* for sharing as you do! You continue to inspire me greatly!

    Reply
  • The Exception February 8, 2011, 10:24 am

    Tess – What a wonderful story – what a wonderful daughter you have. I think that we often forget that the obstacles that we face are often a matter of our own thinking over anything else. People with physical disabilities do amazing things because they believe it is possible – or they refuse to believe that it isn’t… and when they have the support (like your daughter has) the sky is truly the limit.
    Thank you for sharing this!

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  • Vlad August 21, 2011, 1:37 pm

    Hi Tess, Thank you for your post! As a father myself, I can relate to your experiences. Our kid’s victories, big or small, become our own. We enter into parenthood often ill prepared for the challenges that being a parent present. For me, having my son changed me and the way that I relate to life forever. In fact, my son once asked me when does a boy grow up to become a man? I answered that based on my experience, a boy grows up to become a man when he has a child of his own… Thank you for your inspiration!

    Reply
  • Kaylee February 8, 2012, 5:32 pm

    What a beautiful story! It’s a perfect example of what great things can happen if you don’t get in your own way. Thanks for sharing!

    Peace,
    K

    Reply

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