Time continues to fly swiftly by. I still visit that bench, although not quite as often.  Another year has passed without opening that box. Perhaps next year I will have the strength and courage to do so.

Your brother grows and thrives, so vibrantly, he seems to glow from within. At times, I like to think that he carries not only his own brightness, but yours as well. Maybe it is just a reflection, a trick of the light, I can’t help but think of both of you when I catch a certain twinkle in his eye or the sun shines down on his shoulders.

Though we shared only a few precious moments with you in this world, they are some the most precious I hold in my heart. On this day you gave me the gift of motherhood, a gift I will cherish forever. Happy 6th birthday, Mary and Christopher. We love you so.

I sit. I wait. I whisper. I get angry. I get sad.  I leave the room. I go back. I’m patient. I’m frustrated. I’m exhausted. I love him. I want to run away screaming. I hold firm. I cave in. I silently scream. I sing. I hold him. I push him away. I count. I read. I cry. I count the minutes. I count the hours. We do not sleep. 

  
 
Keeping my hands busy and my mind calm, it’s currently more about the process than the end product. Although, it can be amazing that worries and stress can turn into something that keeps you cozy and warm. 

  
Big day for the little guy! Although Joe has been attending “camp” for about six months, today is his first official day of preschool. 

He’s attending the Early Childhood Program at Davis Primary School. His teacher is the sweetest lady ever, Mrs. Gregory. “Mrs. G” to her students. 

We’re all excited to see Joey start out his education and can’t wait to see how much he will learn and grow. Here’s to the  Class of 2030!

Once again, a year has gone by and now my chubby toddler has morphed into a (not so little) little boy. This past year has brought a lot of changes for you, and our family, but you have always surprised me at your easy going attitude and quick adjustment to it all. You’ve grown so much more independent and your personality has really blossomed this year. I love how kind and loving you are to everyone, how silly you can be and how you laugh and giggle. I love watching you learn and figuring out how things work.  I love how you always want me to read to you and ask me to “Come take a seat, Mom!” on the couch next to you. You’re still as busy as ever, but you always make sure to sit and snuggle with me. I hope that you will always do that no matter how big you get. I so look forward to what this next year will bring. Happy Birthday, Joseph William, you are my shining star. Mommy loves you so very much.

I”m three years old today!! Wow did that year go by fast! I have grown so much and can do so many more things now that I’m a big boy. I can sleep in a big boy bed, wear big boy underwear and can dress and undress myself. (with a tiny bit of help from mom or dad) I know my shapes, and colors – in rainbow order!- and can even spell and read lots of words. My favorite things to do are play with my trains and cars, do puzzles, do crafts with mommy and play basketball with daddy. I want to be outside ALL THE TIME! I’m so excited to see what this next year brings, I’m ready for anything!