A birthday wish for my sweet little girl!

Years ago, I was at my brother's best friend's wedding.  In his best man's speech, Bob talked about how the bride and groom, Jen and Mike first met.

Jen's sister is Bob's wife.  For what I 'believe' was a significant period of time, the two suggested that Mike should ask Jen out.  And Mike's response went something like "It ain't gonna happen".  But over time he changed his mind.  Twelve years (and two kids) later they are still happily married. 

Bob told Mike and Jen that their love story proves that sometimes the best things in life are the things you least expect.

I know that to be true.

With a history of infertility and a six month old baby at home, another baby was the furthest thing from my mind in the summer of 2005.  But it seems God had a different plan for me than I had for myself.

April 11, 2006

In April of the following year, six years ago today, I first held one of the great loves of my life in my arms.

The years with Cathy have been filled with uncertainties and challenges.   When she had her first seizure in my arms at five months, when she was tested for horrific, debilitating genetic syndromes at nine months, I imagined the absolute worst.  And while I wouldn't wish that type of worry or heartache on my worst enemy, it gives me a perspective on life that might not otherwise be possible.

Instead of a child that is completely dependent on me for even the most basic 'activities of daily living', I have a bright, active little girl who laughs hysterically as she steals bases in kickball, who hugs her brother when he is hurt, who beams with pride when she reads a story to me, who is happy to snuggle up on my lap and watch Sid the Science Kid for the 100th time. 

She is kind.  And funny.  And she continually amazes and inspires me.  Every day is a blessing.

Just a few weeks ago...

There have been trying moments over the years for sure, but there's not been a day in the last six years where I've felt anything other than lucky that she came into my life. 

I keep asking Cathy if she could just stop growing.  If she could stay my little peanut forever, but she tells me "No.  I am growing every day."

Every day she's amazing.   And today, I wish her the happiest of birthdays!!!