...And that I certainly have done this Summer - Lived what I love.
Ten years ago, a list of my favourite things would have included:
- Barbie Dolls
- Ice Cream
- Chocolate (..Yes, I was the fat big boned kid in the class - but everyone deserves a treat ...or two)
- Making Bracelets
- Splashing in the Pool
Just to mention a few..I'm sure at that age I could have created a list that would stretch from here to timbuktu - and back again.
But...
It wasn't until later on in life (..Okay - I'm not that old!) It wasn't until a few years later, that I realised some of the best things in life, some of the things that make me happiest are intangible and free.
From the age of 15 I worked out that some of the things that make me the happiest, and that bring out my vibrancy and enthusiasm is making others happy - and making others Smile.
So this Summer I have lived what I love;
Camp .. Friends .. and the Incredible Children I work with.
I have been fortunate enough to spend my Summer working and volunteering on Camps and Playschemes for Children with Special Needs - as well as having the honour of taking the children on holidays!
It may sound pretty corny, but I get so much out of working with children with additional needs and making them Smile. A Smile is something that you truly cannot give away, because it always comes back to you. The children I work with certainly bring out the best in me and make me glow with a Smile from ear to ear.
I enjoy helping others and am extremely passionate about helping the kids I work with to fulfill their potential and to make the most of their summer - Breaking down Barriers. Nothing is impossible, Everything is always possible - with a little bit of fun creativity ;)
"Placing one foot in front of the other, they can climb to higher lengths. Reaching beyond their own limitations, to show their inner strength. No obstacle too hard, for this warrior to overcome. They're just men on a mission, to prove that disability hasn't one."
So this summer we had a break from school, a break from the work routine: This Summer we all took part in climbing, sailing, rounders, cooking, crazy silly photo challenges and Camp's got Talent.
Everyone took part, Everyone was included, Everyone had fun - and Everyone, had the Biggest Smile Imaginable on their faces.
One of my camp's was particularly incredible - a mix of able-bodied and SEN kids but they weren't two cliques, they weren't separate groups, they weren't seen as different - They were...
FRIENDS.
What an Amazing Summer!?
Keep Smiling,
T <3
