One Year Ago

Vince got cool new shoes. He needs them for his parapodium, which we will add pictures of in the next post and explain what it is all about.

Chirstmas Eve. Vince was pretty tired, he fell asleep during church, which really suprised us.

He was not to sure about his new hat, but I think he likes it now.

He also got his first basketball hoop, he will be ready to take on his dad very soon.

First of all, we hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Years. We did, it was wonderful to spend our first one together at home. Both sets of Grandparents made it down during our vacation as well. Vince got a lot of toys and clothes. Even though he did not quite get what Christmas was, it was still fun to see him open presents. He seemed to like the paper more than the gifts, I am sure it will be different next year. New Years was nice, we all stayed home this year and Vince even tried to make it to the ball drop but he fell asleep at 10. Vince also got two teeth over break. He got his first one on Christmas day and the second one on New Years Eve. We are both very happy he got them because teething was really hard on him. I know he has a lot more to go, but I have been told the first couple are the hardest. I hope that it true.

Secondly, one year ago today we found out that Vince had Spina Bifida. It is really weird because I remember the day so vividly and yet it seems like it was so long ago. It is hard to believe that so much has happen in just one year and although 2009 was one of the best we have had to date, it was also the most challenging one we have had. In a years time we have gone from knowing nothing about a subject (in fact I could not even pronounce Spina Bifida at first or Myelomeningocele) to knowing way to much, but I still would not consider us experts as with every day there is something new to learn. Vince has been the most wonderful thing that has happened in our lives and has shown us what it is to be heroic and brave. He has truly taught us what love is and I know will continue to teach us the meaning of many things. To anyone who might be reading this who is just starting on the journey, pregnancy really is the hardest part. The NICU is not much fun, but at least you have your baby in sight and once you get to take your baby home everything feels right. There are many ups and downs and it is easy to be paranoid about everything, but try to just enjoy your family. We know that our journey is really just beginning but today feels like a momentous day, we have survived our first year and I think we have been somewhat successful with it. I know we have said this a lot, but thank you for all of the love, support, and prayers this past year. We know that they have made a huge difference.

Love,

Nick, Andrea, and Vince