The Bockholts: July 2014

Yesterday, my baby turned one. And while I think most moms find that the first birthday is a bittersweet one, I think it was more sweet for me than bitter. While I am a little sad my baby is growing up so fast, I am overjoyed with the growing up that has taken place. I look back to a year ago, as we watched his little body hooked up to all sorts of tubes and wires and IVs. One year ago was a scary time for us. They weren't fully sure what was wrong with that tiny boy, and I have never experienced so much fear at the thought that something could go terribly, terribly wrong. After both Caleb and I were given blessings though, I knew we would all pull through it. I knew that we could get through this bump in the road and that in the end, all would be well. I watched that baby go from bad, to worse, to worse, and then suddenly to ok, then better, then even better, then good enough to get to come home... much sooner than the doctors and nurses had expected. And while these last 12 months have been full of pediatric appointments, neurology appointments, physical therapy, and developmental therapy, this boy is developing just the way he should. When everyone said there would most likely be some delays, he proved them wrong and hit his milestones just when he should have. In fact, you would never guess that the boy you see today went through all those struggles. He is perfect. He is beautiful. And I can't even describe the overwhelming gratitude I feel to my Heavenly Father for this wiggly little boy that keeps me on my toes. This year has not been easy. Not at all. But it has been such a privilege to be entrusted with his sweet spirit. Every sleepless night (which was most of them), every battle to get him to eat (which was most of them!), have all been worth it. I love being a mom. I love these two little people who I get to spend every single day with. They are awesome. And I know you all think you have the best kids, but you are wrong. Because mine are the by far the best :)