March 7 - the day of my 20 week ultrasound when Ryder's cleft was identified.
July 10-17 - after spending 9 months of never being apart Ryder had to spend 7 days in the NICU.
September 25 - Mom called to tell me she had to have surgery (I put the puzzle pieces together after we hung up the phone - Mom had cancer).
October 4 - Ryder's lip surgery.
October 8 - Mom's surgery.
November 5 - Mom's first day of chemotherapy.
November 26 - Ryder's ear tube surgery.
These days I'm happy to see go - GOODBYE days and don't you come back no more, no more, no more, no more!
All those days in between? I'm sad to see go. All those days I spent crying and worrying instead of loving in the moment - thanking God for that second of breath where I was surrounded with His love, goodness and grace. If there's one thing I've learned this year, it's to be thankful for the little things - from warm blankets on my bed to my heart beating. From gas in my car to the bills getting paid. From health insurance to cover our many medical expenses to the team of doctors who have entered our lives via our precious Ryder (even if I don't always like what they have to say).
As we begin 2014 I pray that I take the lessons learned from 2013 and use them as tools to help me savor every second of this upcoming year. This year does not promise all things easy and perfect but it does promise days filled with choices to live, love and be happy in the little things.
It's going to continue being a journey over the next few months - mom still has 4 more months of chemotherapy, Ryder still has a gazillion doctor appointments and his palate sugery is only 7 months away but all those days in between? Why they're filled with God's love, grace and goodness and I'm determined to see the sunshine on cloudy days. To not just wait for the storm to pass but to learn to dance in the rain!
Thank you Lord for allowing us to see a new year approach! And although there are a lot of unknowns this year we pray that we see your love and goodness in ALL things! May we glorify you in everything we do and may you always be the focus of our life - even if we don't always feel you near. And when those storms hit, can you promise to dance with me so I don't feel all alone on the dance floor? Thank you and AMEN!
wow you are very strong and i love your blog. it is very very warm and encouraging. We will pray for you and your wonderful mom. My name is Irene i am Mike Rodriguez sister, i meet you at the wedding. Our heavenly Father is always with you and he is your dance partner. BLESSINGS TO ALL OF YOU
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