Happy Birthday, Lauren

Five years ago I made the comment, "Maybe I will go into labor and not have to go to Open House". Well, I did.

I am still in awe of how far this little girl has come in five short years. She started her life on a ventilator. Her first 12 days were filled with two seizures, kidney/liver problems, a stroke, feeding tubes, apnea monitors, and wires sticking out everywhere. To think that five years later, it would all be a distant memory is nothing short of a miracle.

Lauren, I am inspired everyday by your determination, your sweet spirit, and that infectious smile. I am so proud of how far you've come and how you never let anything stand in your way. I know God has great things in store for you. It is no accident that you are here with us. Things might be hard sometimes, but you have so much strength and can handle anything that comes your way. You are my joy and I am so glad God chose me to be your Mommy. Happy Birthday, sweet angel!

Greatest Neighbors

We have an older couple that lives at the end of our street. They are pretty much the nicest neighbors I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. They took an instant interest in Lauren and our family. She buys Lauren Christmas gifts and has special treats every time we go over for a visit. Today they proved once again why I love them so much.

Lauren has a pretty dangerous bus stop, if I do say so myself. The bus stop is at the end of our road. It is a pretty busy street and there is a blind corner that cars come barreling around every day. I have put a request into the transportation department to change the stop. No surprise that it has been two weeks and I haven't heard a word from them.

My neighbor stops me this afternoon and offers to help speed things up. He knew that if other people called to complain about the dangerous stop that they might speed up the process. He said that he would love to call tomorrow if I would give him permission to help. Ummm, yes, please! I really love them....