Today is the first day of 2014. When I look back on the past 12 months, it’s hard to count all the ways my life has changed. A year ago, I was newly pregnant and had no idea all the turns my life was about to take. In February we were able to travel to California for one of my best friend’s weddings. It was such a blessing to be able to see Dianna on her big day – so BEAUTIFUL!! Shortly after returning home, we had our anatomy ultrasound. Those next few weeks were a blur of tears, fear and frustration. However, moving forward through the Spring I continued to grow, and grow and grow – physically, spiritually and emotionally. It amazing how every part of you grows as you’re preparing for motherhood. Even though now, my body has (somewhat) gone back to normal, I still feel the growth. There’s a piece of your heart and spirit that swells to make room for this new love in your life. That’s why it hurts so much when your little one is threatened or hurt in any way. Because this piece of you is them. Even though they’re no longer physically inside of you, there is still a space carved out for them in your soul.

Part of this year has involved connecting with other parents who have children with 1p36. And, unfortunately part of that is hearing the stories about babies leaving this Earth too soon. It is unfathomable to imagine the kind of hurt and despair a mother must feel after losing a child. The love I feel for Henry is too big for words to describe. I praise and thank the Lord everyday he allows Henry to be in my life … and Dan and I in his.

I won’t rehash all the updates throughout the year, because you’ve probably read them all already. Henry’s occupational therapist has left, but we’re trying to get him approved for physical therapy; which will hopefully start soon. In the meantime, I’ve been trying to work on his exercises at home. He’s rolling a lot more now. We’ve been letting him sleep in his big boy bed the last few nights. He has more room to move around there, so I think it’s good for his development. Also, it’s not as hard as I thought it would be having him 20 feet away at night. Of course, the video monitor helps.

Henry during one of our home PT sessions. Charlie decided to help:)

Henry is still very vocal, and has started giggling more and more. He’s also got his hands in his mouth all the time now. I think he’s going to start teething soon. This isn’t the best timing considering his lip surgery is less than two weeks away (Jan. 13).  He’s going to have to wear no-nos (elbow braces) for several days after surgery to keep him from touching his face. That and not being able to breast feed are going to make it pretty miserable for him. I’m just hoping it all goes by quickly. We certainly appreciate any prayers to encourage quick healing.

In closing, I was recently introduced to Flipagram. I thought this would be a great way to summarize the year 2013. I’m sure you’ve seen most of these photos already, but it’s pretty cool when you string them all together against a soundtrack. Enjoy!