3rd birthday!

 I can hardly believe this fact. My little Jack is 3 today. Before I opened my eyes this morning, I was remembering the sounds, smells, emotions and feelings of being at Mission Hospital on April 28th, 2009. How at 7:30 that day (the time I woke up today), Dr Hashad had come in and we decided to start the Pitocin again to get some contractions as I was not progressing at all. We were exhausted but still excited. Honey and Grampa got on the road that day at 4am to make it. I went to bed that night nauseated and overwhelmed- but not by you Jack. I was overwhelmed by the IV, catheter, lack of use of my legs, and being up and through surgery and contractions for a day and a half. But you-- you made it all seem like nothing. I remember that first moment that I held you in my arms-- I haven't been the same and I never will be.

Today we had fun ALL day. We had pancakes for breakfast, a trip to Home Depot to buy some tomato plants, a visit from Aunt Lori, Lindsey and Hailey to plant the plants and then have tacos for lunch. Then we opened your presents- we got you about 6 things and I videoed you opening them- you were so different opening them this time than every other time in your life. We got you a plastic tool set, R2D2 spinny thing from Disneyland, Thomas book and electric toothbrush with Thomas on it. Toy Story Lego set from Gramma and Papa and plastic golf set from the Smurphs (the Mike and Stacy Murphrees). Also- I got you a tractor in Texas that makes sounds. You loved all your toys and of course your cupcake- that you helped me make yesterday. You took a short nap before talking with all your grandparents on Skype and then a walk downtown for dinner at Ruby's. Then the way back- you ran along the sidewalk half the way home!

When we got home, before our bedtime routine- both you boys ran around the dark backyard carrying flashlights I bought today at Home Depot with glowing handles. Just running around in circles with your lights while giggling- I'm pretty sure these are moments I'll never forget. Or if I do, I'll read about it here.

Happy Birthday Jack. You are a joy- you are so smart with articulate speech- you are so handsome. I cannot stand it.

Charlie-- you are all those things too-- it's just not your birthday today. Sweet dreams my love bugs.