1 Year Birthday

For some reason, maybe because I know it will be so emotional, I have avoided posting about Chloe's 1st birthday. Maybe it makes it more real that it has been 1 year if I write about it. There are times when it is still hard to wrap my head around what we went through last year.

Thank you to everyone who prayed for us on April 19 and the days leading up to it. We truly felt your prayers and God's comfort and peace the entire day. It was a huge blessing.

It was a special day that we spent remembering Chloe and talking about her. We took it easy without any major plans. We were in San Diego so I went down to the pool to be quiet and journal in the same journal that has recorded all of the entries about Chloe. I flipped back to some entries from the prior year, but I didn't read much. It was so raw that I knew I would fall apart if I went back to that place and I didn't want to be a wreck all day. I didn't want to be in a dark place on her birthday - I wanted to celebrate the short life she lived on earth. I wanted to smile because I knew she was smiling and having a great time in Heaven.

We went to breakfast, thought about going to the San Diego Zoo, but decided against it. We drove back home along the coast and just experienced whatever came our way. It was a good way for us to spend the day. The only thing I didn't do, which I'd like to do in the future, is have a birthday cake.

Making it through the 1 year mark was a big deal. Getting through all the "firsts" was a challenge at time. I felt a huge relief on April 20. We had survived an entire year, I felt like if we could do the first year, we could get through the rest. And I was surprised at how I was able to enjoy my birthday on April 22. Last year it was such a blurr.

God really worked a miracle by giving me a grateful perspective on Chloe's birthday. Instead of being angry, I was grateful and thankful for Chloe, even though our time with her was so short. Honestly, I think the fact that we have a new baby on the way makes a huge difference. If that wasn't the case, I think there would be more anger. Instead I can focus my energy on what I'm grateful for - Chloe's little sister and the fact that we will be better parents because of Chloe.

All is going wonderfully with the new baby. Today I'm 24 weeks.We had an ultrasound last week and everything looks perfect. It was hysterical, she yawned and we got to see her mouth stretch wide open. So cute. She is moving like crazy. I love every minute. I never felt Chloe move so each little kick is treasured.

There are still moments of fear, when I think of 100 things that could go wrong. But I try to capture those thoughts and remember that God has a plan for this baby and for us (Jeremiah 29:11). I'm trusting in Him, even when my trust feels shaky. I know He is faithful and loves us.

Thank you for checking in on us and for praying for us and our new baby. We are blessed that people take time to read about our family and pray for us. You are more of a blessing than you could ever know!