We've Only Just Begun, Four Years Around the Sun #MondayMotivation

He captured our heart

Four years ago, I became a mother for the second time. Our son came in the world spontaneously, suddenly, and forcefully. Indeed, he arrived within an hour and a half of our arriving at the hospital. Upon examination in the labor and delivery room the physician told me to let him know when I wanted to push. He left the room and ten minute later, I felt that sensation and told the nurse. She was reluctant to get the physician because he had just been in there, but I insisted. The physician returned, broke my water, and there in spectacular appearance (after only two pushes) was my son--our son. And he was perfect.

And, although I wasn't sure that it was possible because I loved my daughter so very much, my heart expanded and my capacity for love grew.

But then, he wasn't allowed to go home.

Having a baby in the NICU is terrifying.

Our four year old bundle of love

The night before we were to be discharged, he was discovered to have an aggressive eye infection and he was transferred to the NICU--our perfect baby. We went from celebrating to worrying. They didn't know the cause of the infection nor did they know the type of bacteria causing it.  There were tests and tubes and an incubator and I was pumping milk and sleep walking my way to the NICU to nurse him and my faith was tested.

It was the most terrified I have been in my life.

I work in medical malpractice. I only hear bad stories. Indeed, bad, tragic medical outcomes is a decent portion of my professional work. So, sometimes it can be challenging for me to see the potential bright side in the midst of it. Still, I have faith. So, I have learned the delicate dance of questioning while believing...

We were one of the lucky families and had a brief NICU stay.

We were blessed to have been discharged from the NICU in less than a week and have never spent another day in the hospital. And, we have been celebrating ever since!

We've only just begun, our NICU baby has completed four years around the sun. 

Last week we continued our celebration and rejoiced that he turned four. He is an energetic bundle of love. He gives me the biggest hugs and wettest kisses. He is thoughtful of his friends, while also tormenting his sister. He thinks that I hung the moon and I know that he holds my heart. With all that I am and all that I have, I am honored to be his mom.

So, even though his birthday was last week, I hope that you join me and wish him a happy birthday. Please share your good wishes in the comments!

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