HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY ISRAEL!

I really can't believe those words are coming out of my mouth! How is it possible that my baby is 2 years old already? WOW! These past years with him have flown by so quickly. But I can honestly say I was fully present during each moment. I think back on my other two children and find it hard to remember details and exact moments without having to look through pictures or at videos. I determined I was going to do it differently this time around because I know exactly how fast it passes. I wanted to remember every single moment, milestone, achievement, joy, smile, sorrow, tear drop, doctors appointment, weight check, physical therapy appointment etc. And I have! I can remember everything...and I LOVE it! So just as quickly as these years have flown by...they have also gone slow enough for me to remember. I have tried not to rush any stage in his life, or forget any "not so favorite" moment. Because this is his story...the journey of Israel. I am tearing up as I can recall memories like a flood rushing in.

I remember...

The moment we found out we were pregnant.

The first time I "saw" you.

Our first moments together.

The first time you touched the sand.

The way your Daddy loves you.

Your first Shriner's appointment.

The way your brother loves you.

The first time you held your own bottle.

Your first (of many!) haircut.

Your 1/2 birthday.

The first time you sat up on your own.

The moment you discovered YOU.

Your first finger foods.

Your first Christmas.

Your first pair of legs.

The way your sister loves you.

Your first surgery.

Your first birthday.

Your first steps.

Your first parade.

The MANY faces you make!

Your curly hair.

The first time you drove.

The day you mastered my iPhone.

The first time you crawled!

The way "YOU" NEVER let "YOU" stand in the way of what "YOU" want to do!

The day we learned you were a thrill seeker!

The day you could stand on your own!

Your LOVE for both milk and movies :-)

Your amazing smile that brings light to even the darkest day.

The way I love you more then I could ever express!

Israel David...I am so proud to be your Mommy and blessed beyond words (and so unworthy) that God chose me. You are my miracle everyday. You bring so much life and joy to this family. God has big plans for you boy...and even though I haven't the slightest idea what they are, I know He is working out every detail. You continue to amaze me each day with everything you can do and the way you overcome every obstacle placed in front of you. I look forward to this next year with you with great expectation. I love you Izzy!