Let's Go Grow

Just days before Hank was born I sat in my office at the seminary.

I remember staring at my giant, swollen ankles and feeling Hank’s kicks and pokes and tiny hiccups.

I wondered what he would be like. 

We had waited a long time for this tiny boy, and he was truly a miracle born out of some of the most difficult times our lives.

Amidst the excitement I was weary of the change.

I felt a little sad to leave behind such a wonderful era.

I was nervous that I wouldn’t be enough or do enough for this tiny boy.

In the middle of my anxiety I glanced at a sticky note I had placed on my computer screen just days before.

It said,

“Let’s Go Grow”.

When it was time for Hank to come, that little phrase brought me courage on the way to the hospital and comfort through delivery.

Let’s go grow.

When we left the next day our family had grown.

So had we.

As I write I’m snuggling my sleeping one year old boy.

Today is Hank’s birthday.

As I look back on pictures and sweet moments from this special year the little phrase comes to mind again.

Let’s go grow.

Hank started walking this week. His tiny, clumsy steps grow more confident and steady every day.

First steps are scary. Hank is so brave.

Let’s go grow.

A year ago today our lives changed forever.

I had no idea the healing and help that would come with this tiny boy.

He makes Jake and I better.

He helps us grow.

Hank is a little young for birthday wishes so I made one for him.

My wish is that he’ll grow. That we’ll grow.

Happy Birthday sweetest boy. Love you most.