4 years

Four years ago today you were born.  While most mom's remember every little detail of their child's birth I remember almost nothing of yours.  In fact, I didn't actually get to meet you or see you on the day you were born... it was a few days before my doctors would allow me to move from my bed and visit you in the NICU.  But I do remember the pictures your nurses brought me.  Pictures of you on that first day.  As soon as I saw them I knew you were a keeper :)

Caleb, there were so many things about the day you were born that I didn't expect.  I didn't expect you to be born 6 weeks early, I didn't expect to have an emergency c-section, I didn't expect to not be with you during your first days of life, I didn't expect that I would not be the first one to feed you, I didn't expect that we'd both stay in the hospital for weeks but rarely get to see each other, and I didn't expect that you would be born into a season of such sadness.

But Caleb, you have exceeded all of my expectations.  In all of my wildest dreams I couldn't have imagined someone as smart, funny, silly, adorable, cool, sweet, creative, caring, and hilarious as you.  Everyday, I am so proud to be your mama.

So even though the day you were born wasn't all it should have been... today we will celebrate because you are such a special gift.  I love you.  Happy birthday.