Yesterday, in a forum posting on cafe mom (www.cafemom.com/group/eebeebaby), “Imnosupermom” said about eebee’s adventures: “I don’t know if it is making her smarter, but it does make her happy, and that is enough for me.”

That response made me smile and reflect on how often parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles have used the words “happy,” “joy,” “smile,” and “laugh” when they describe their child’s reactions to an adventure. It occurred to me that perhaps we had somehow succeeded in tapping into that very illusive “joy of discovery” or “love of learning” that comes with those moments when you’re so engaged, intrigued or compelled by a new idea or experience that nothing else matters. And I also thought about another child I had just heard about….

ACHILLES’ STORY

Achilles and eebee sharing a hospital adventure

A couple of weeks ago, a mom e-mailed to ask about the length of the DVDs. In response to my response, this mom, Ali, let me know the adventures were a “godsend” for her son, Achilles, now about 6 months old.

Achilles has already had two open heart surgeries and had a pacemaker implanted. Achilles also has congestive heart failure. Being hospitalized and being physically distressed or in pain are ways of life for him already. The doctors have told Ali that when Achilles is upset, it’s essential to calm him down to avoid further stress on his heart.

One night, when Achilles was having a particularly rough time, Ali tried an eebee episode On Demand. It worked. He calmed down. After that, she said, “it’s just eebee for us.” Ali also told us how she and Achilles also play their own versions of the adventures now.

Achilles’ story made me think that this little guy is learning to fight and just maybe, he’s also fighting to learn.

the adventure continues…

COMFORT and JOY

While lifting spirits and spreading joy are this month’s theme, Achilles’ story along with all of those that you’ve shared with us, remind me that every day and every moment are rich with possibilities and promise.

And on that note…wishing you a very HAPPEEBEE HOLIDAY season and a peaceful new year filled with ADVENTURE, DISCOVERY and JOY.