To my kiddos...

I always take for granted the things I assume you just know because I've mentioned it before, or because I think you just know it...I wanted to make sure I write these things down as I think of them so I can be sure that you do know....

Connor Thomas & Hannah Colleen: 

        *  You are the strongest two people I've ever met, you have been through so much in your short years, and you rarely ever complain.  You haven't always been dealt the fair hand, but you always make the most of it and find the positive--not a common trait of kiddos your age.

         *  Your momma is the proudest she's ever been of you.  Every day you astound me with the things you do and say, not to mention the way you treat each other--occasionally arguing, but always with respect and love.

         *  You have the most incredible support system of family, friends, and friends that are closer than family, who love you and will be there for you, no matter what

         *  I know that you will grow into respectful, caring, sensitive, honorable, tremendous adults, you have proven that much to me and others already.  

         *  You both have the best Donahue sense of humor, there is not a day goes by that you haven't made me laugh in some capacity or another...your humor is a gift, never waste it

         *  When you second guess or begin to doubt yourself, step back, take a deep breath, and call each other.  I have learned from my own brother that there is no one that can be as honest and understanding with you as a sibling.

         *  You need to slow down at times and look at what is happening around you.  You both move so quickly through things that sometimes I'm afraid you're not enjoying yourselves;  I ask that you always take at least 60 seconds every day to just stop where you are, take a deep breathe, and look around you (no matter where you are) and remember what you see and hear--trust me, it will mean the world to you when you look back at those times--it's the best piece of advice I've ever received.

         *   Always strive to do your best, no matter what it is you're doing;  never finish a project/job/assignment unless you are proud of it and have every confidence you did the very best you could--trust me, it will pay off
         *  I am the luckiest mom in the world to be able to call you my children, you truly have made it the best job I could have ever imagined.   I love you with all of my heart and soul.
                      Love,
                        Mom