Motivation

Let's just start by saying I've had enough "you're a real trooper" to last me a lifetime. I've lived through 13 orthopedic surgeries, being hit by a bus, emergency abdominal surgery, high risk pregnancy, c-section and a two week NICU stay.

I'm tough that's just a fact. Hit by a bus and made it to rehearsal that night tough. I always get through it because I have to. Everything changes when you become a parent. The stakes become much higher and motavation becomes selfish and selfless.

When I had the emergency abdominal surgery I was living alone in LA. I had a long lonely recovery. The memory of the pain haunts me and I'm pretty tough. Even before I got pregnant I knew I would have to have a C-Section. I was hysterical with worry towards the end of my pregnancy. I didn't think I could do it again. Somehow I made it through. And then there was Riley.

The night I had Riley I had a fair amount of pain, but then they told me if I could sit in a chair I could go see her. I don't remember much pain after that. I got to my baby the first second they'd let me and stayed with her every moment I could. I got around so well for Riley's sake that I was discharged before I knew it. I was at her bedside every minute I could and I only remember thinking about my pain a few brief moments. I had to get better, I had to smile more than I cried, and I had to keep moving because of Riley.

I am terrified of my upcoming hip replacement. I am sick at the thought of it, but I'll get through it. Riley's gift to me is that I have to smile more than I cry she just won't have it any other way. I think recording of Riley laughing could be the cure for depression. Her cuddles cure all and there is no greater inspiration than to be able to be the best parent possible for her. So, thanks to my beautiful girl I know I will get through this faster than I ever would before her and with alot more laughter.