I have to admit I was pretty emotional as Joel's 1st birthday approached. Some were sad tears, remembering how terrible it felt to leave him at the hospital and come home and sleep next to an empty bassinet. Or the worry and uncertainty of Joel's future after the diagnosis of the tumor after thinking it was just a harmless lump of cells that had grown in the wrong place. But after a whole (healthy) year with him, most of the tears were grateful and joyful seeing what a blessing he has been to our family. I am so thankful for the trial, through which God has shown us a whole new level and perspective of the love a parent has for a child. It has given me a tremendous amount of appreciation and love for all 3 of the kids, as well as a deepened compassion and understanding for any family struggling with the illness of a child. Anyway... Joel is so fun and easy-going, adding him to the family has been a breeze! (I just hope this next one fits in as smoothly!) He is 20 lbs. even, smaller than average like the other two, but that's easier on me because he is still not walking at 13 months! He crawls so well, he has no need to walk at this point I guess. His balance standing is so good though, once he takes a step, he'll be off!
Such a big boy! 1 Year Old today! July 18th, 2008
Not a new present, but we cleaned up this slide from outside for Joel to play with downstairs. He loves to go up and down the steps, but it's good practice on a small scale!
Every little scrap of paper he tore off, he held up over his head and said "ay!" (Hooray!)
He's always a happy guy!
One of my new favorites!
We had Joel's birthday party at Grandma Seeley's house so we could enjoy the pool in the afternoon. It was a perfect day and lots of family and friends came to celebrate with us!
Ready to go!
Done
Just relaxing, getting worn out!
:)
