My second born is known for her fiery temper, her ragged determination and at times her complete lack of tact.

Yes she is also admired for her strength of conviction, loyalty and affection.

Ice skating was what consumed her heart from the moment she first stepped on the ice back in 2007 yet when Livvy died in 2008 the desire to skate left with the impact of grief. To quote Eden from this time “It doesn’t seem important anymore”. Add to this the beginning of senior school a break was needed from the sport.

So when last year she asked to return to the sport I was excited but nervous at the same time. Many of her friends had moved forward, how she was going to feel.

We were truly blessed with the chance of working with a new coach who Eden had admired for such a long time and is to be honest an amazing coach who really understands her. The new excitement for the sport was obvious in her willingness to jump out of bed at 5am.

Anyway Monday she participated in her first open competition. It wasn’t the result that was the victory it was the smiles I saw on her face, the fun I saw her have. The laughter she shared with her coach. That brought joy to my heart.

Losing a sister has affected my children in different ways, Eden lost her joy, patience and direction for a while, my heart was bursting with pride on Monday as she did me proud.

Also taking 2nd place isn’t a bad start back either.

As a parent who loses a child you go through so many emotions watching your other children grieve breaks your heart all over again.

I know Eden misses Livvy so much but it was wonderful to see her spark fired up again. Her dreams become important to her again.

I know her little sister is with her always.

To some it may have just been an ice skating competition for us it was so much more.

My Star