Happy days & heartache

Today is my son's 9th birthday!  I look at that picture over there and I can't help but rejoice in how far he's come.  When this picture was taken we had no idea what would happen. . .if he would have any disabilities. . .if he would even make it.

While I rejoice in his life, I also grieve for his sister Ayanna.  She was only with us for 4 short hours.  Four hours spent in the NICU while the doctors fought to keep her alive.  I never got to know my baby girl.  My son never got to know his sister.  For that I will always be heartbroken.

But with each passing day, I focus less on the heartbreak of our loss and more on the beauty of life.  The beauty of the son I have been blessed with.  Loving him & watching him grow has truly been a blessing for me.  He pushes me to be a better person and for that I am eternally thankful.  I truly believe that God will not give us more than we can handle. . .and in most situations things turn out exactly how they were meant to.

Here's my main man now. . .his 3rd grade school picture.  Happy birthday my love!