Monday, June 6, 2011

Our 1st Year

I can't believe that it was just a year ago that Grace arrived in our lives. In some ways it feels like just yesterday, but in other ways it seems like a lifetime ago. Our lives have certainly been changed by her presence!

Here we are in one of our first family photos
Like every new parent, we thought she was perfect! In fact compared to the other babies in the NICU she looked so healthy (she was so much bigger than most of the other babies). We were in such shock  from the surprise of her heart defect that we didn't really comprehend just how sick she actually was. I remember the day before her surgery my cousin came to visit and we talked about just leaving the hospital with Grace. She really did look good.
Somehow we decided that it would be best to stay there and have the surgery so her heart would be fixed. That was the scariest experience. To hand our precious little girl over to the surgical team was a test of strength and courage, but we knew there was no other choice and we were blessed that Grace would be receiving the best possible care.

The road to where we are now has been challenging, but Grace has faced each challenge with determination and will. We follow her lead and are experiencing joy we could never have imagined!

Yesterday we were fortunate to celebrate with our wonderful family and great friends! Grace is truly a blessing to us!





















There were balloons, bubbles, and lots of smiles! Grace had a wonderful time!!
We are so thankful for all the love she has received and continues to experience each day.
Thank You!