Happy 2nd Birthday Jonathan!

Happy 2nd birthday baby boy!  On the morning of your birthday I can't help but reflect on our last two years and all that we've been through as a family.  July 19th, 2012 feels like a million years ago...

About a week before you were born, your big sister got sick with a cold and was admitted to BCCH.
It appears that Gabrielle went to extreme measures just so she could make sure she was in the same building as you when you arrived in this world and once she was feeling better, your Dad would sneak her down to your room so that you could visit with one another.

They were very good to Jonathan and I and they let us stay 4 days until Gabrielle was healthy enough to come home.  The four of us, left the hospital together and were greeted by two very thrilled brothers waiting at home!  I remember the feeling of strapping both of you into your car seats with a little girl who was squealing with happiness and with a round, chubby beautiful baby boy who I couldn't believe was mine.  Oh the feelings of joy I felt, leaving the hospital with my two babies and bringing them home to their big brothers.  Life was grand and our family was complete.

Having you felt like a completely different experience.  I had the confidence and calm of an experienced mother but I marvelled at the absolute miracle of a new baby in a way that I never had before.  Your sister taught me not to take anything in this life for granted and I saw you with a completely different set of eyes, and I have no one but Gabrielle to thank for that.  Your sister has enriched our lives in a way that I never ever in a million years could have imagined.

1 day old

Our first family picture at the hospital.  

Home at last!

Our summer at home in the backyard

First birthday 

2nd birthday 

At 2 years old you love...

* playing soccer
* trying to keep up with your big brothers
* dogs
* jumping on the trampoline
* your bottle and blanket
* making us laugh.

Thank you for all the joy you have brought to our lives in a very difficult and dark time.  You have reminded us that we need to keep living when many days we felt like we couldn't.  Your sister's spirit is alive in you Jonathan, I see it everyday.  We love you so much.  Happy Birthday baby boy.