I wish I could more accurately describe my relief and joy at reading this post, but it will have to be enough for me to say that it truly spoke to all of those "beasts" that reside inside this mum. And makes me feel better that I am not the only multi-dimensional mum out there!!

Or certainly not as tough and loving as you! Perhaps that I haven't been tested that way, but that ways I HAVE been? Wreck! You give me hope that I could do better, though! :) xo

Whilst at first I was most struck by the feeling of crazy disappointment/fear/confusion you must've felt at learning your older son also has a heart issue, I can see how resilience is the overall message. And realising just how important it is to stand up for what you want and need for your family. I am convinced that (like Maxabella put it so well) because your heart is so good and so big it will help buoy your family when it needs to. Your strength and empathy for others is consistently inspiring!!

And it's got me thinking that, in addition to the fact that he's a toddler and full of passionate emotion, my little guy may be having more trouble effectively expressing the cause behind his anger because I often hide mine. Great "lightbulb" moment reading this knowing that I want to always be more mindful and verbally expressive in my parenting. Thanks!!

What a beautiful post and a perfect reminder to savour those moments. I had one tonight...my 5 yo (who should have been in bed) ran over to my spot on the sofa, opened his mouth wide and breathed into my face! He wanted to show me that he'd brushed his teeth without our nagging - and the incredible joy on his face at having done that was priceless. Perfect end to the day :)