Laiken

Today marks 2 years since Laiken passed away. I've always said cancer is a "4-letter word", but especially when it comes to children.
Laiken fought a hard battle, always with a smile. She was always so positive that it was infectious.

While I was working at KFRG, and she was at CHLA, I would keep in contact with her through Myspace. It always made my day to see a message from Laiken in the inbox. I'd ask her how her day was, and she'd always say she was doing good, and wanted to know how we were doing. Later on, I'd read a post from her Mom about all of the procedures she had to go through that day, and yet, Laiken still said she was doing "good". She was brave and more courageous than most adults I know, and she had a heart of gold. In the short time I knew her,and the brief encounters we had, she taught me a lot about life. And even after her passing, she reminds me to be thankful for every minute I have with my son.

Laiken loved life. I decided that every year on this date, I try to do something "special" with Landon. Something to celebrate life in general. Last year, I took him to Sea World for the first time. This year, maybe Chuck E. Cheese... maybe going out for ice cream. Nothing extreme, but enough to create memories that I will remember forever. Life is short.

To all the parents out there, be sure to hug your little ones tonight. Remember- It's okay to be silly with them and dance around the room. It's okay to eat dessert first. It's okay to make a mess with play doh, paint and glitter. Sometimes a meal consisting solely of french fries is okay. Wearing your Pajamas outside is okay too. Just remember to have fun. Love life. Live life.