Happy Birthday to my little Hero!

It's 7:31 pm and this time last year I was finally asking for my epidural and was about 5 cm dialated. I think my epidural was in by 7:45 and by 845 I called the nurse ready to push. It happened so very fast. She told me to wait for Dr. B, he wanted to be there. So I waited and at 10:06pm, my beautiful precious baby boy Zachary James arrived. He had a few minor problems at the time but was gorgeous and so perfect. I remember thinking "I have to call Mom" and then realizing she wasn't with us. However, I knew she was there and she was guarding my little boy as he needed some oxygen to get things going. I remember calling my dady at about 10:30 that night. It felt good calling him, reaching out to him and sharing my joy.

My perfect second son. My last baby.

I remember a few days before delivery I was freaking out because I could not imagine having enough love for 2 kids. Would I love #2 as much as #1? How is that possible? Someone told me that your heart grows and makes room for more love. That is true because I love both my boys more than life itself.

Unfortunately little Z hasn't had is birthday cake yet...he had his 1 year appt and got his first shots. yay! And has been asleep for nearly 3 hours. So we will celebrate tomorrow. My Zman is 18lbs and 3 oz and 29" long. Dr. Kate is very pleased with this. She has some concern for his soft spot so we go see a neurosurgeon on Dec. 9th. I know it can take 18 months for it to close up but what is the harm in going now, right?

Zachary you are my hero. You taught me so much. Thank you for never giving up and having the strength to go on. Thank you God for allowing him to go on. I love you little man.

March 9th

March 9th is a day of many birthdays. My BIL John and my nephew Josh. (Happy Birthday!) It is also the birthday of a very speical boy, Thomas. He would have been 3 YO this year. Unfortunately, Thomas is not here to celebrate his brithday with his Mommy and Daddy.

Thomas taught me so much in his brief little life. His Mom and Dad are 2 very wonderful, funny, smart and caring people. I will be thinking of you all this week and Jonathan and I are sending prayers to Thomas.

In my mind, I picture Thomas and his little buddy Ryan digging into some birthday cake and playing with some balloons. I also imagine my Mom and my dog Buster stopping by to wish Thomas a happy birthday. Call me crazy, but I can see that very clearly in my mind.

My mom's birthday is on the 19th, the first one without her here. My SIL Kim suggested we start a tradition and bring food to a battered Women's and Children's shelter. I love this idea. She also suggested a cake and some crayons and stuff. The kids will love that. I decided that I will not only do this for my Mom but I will also do it in memory of sweet Thomas. I know his Mom would love that! And I love the idea of sharing this tradition for Mom with Thomas.

I think I will donate some books and/or diapers and formula for Thomas and then the other stuff for Mom. What a great way to honor those not with us and to help those less fortunate. I think Mom and Thomas would like that!

Kristin and Sandy...our thoughts and prayers are with you both (and Thomas) everyday, but especially this week. Many hugs to you both!