A Journey of Grace: Happy Birthday cake...for breakfast anyone?

"Even in the valley, God IS good."

Grace was born at 23 weeks in September of 2006. As a result of her extreme prematurity, she has hydrocephalus (VP shunt) and cerebral palsy. After 126 harrowing days in the NICU, she came home. Overcoming all the odds, she learned to walk, talk, and play like every child. On November 16th, 2009, our lives took another shocking turn. Gracie's shunt failed, and she suffered from a massive stroke. After 13 days in the PICU, 7 days in 1600, and 6 weeks at a rehabilitative hospital, Gracie is once again home. Now, we face SOME of the day to day challenges of parents with a brain injured child -re-learning, therapy, illnesses and seizures. Thanks for joining us on our journey!

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

Friday, April 16, 2010

Happy Birthday cake...for breakfast anyone?

Most mornings, we are rather busy. Between PT and OT, visiting nurses and doctors appointments--it's usually get up and go. Some days though, we have that little bit of extra time. On those morning, I like to ask Gracie what she would LIKE for breakfast. Sometimes, it's a little too out there, but usually it's within the realms of breakfast food. Today was one of those days. Gracie got up quite early after going to sleep quite early last night, and we were spending some good time together. I asked her what she wanted me to make her for breakfast and she answered "Umm. I just want to have some Happy birthday cake!!" with a big grin. Of course, I told her cake is a no go for morning...so she decided on "macioni and cheese". Poor kid. It sounded so good to her. So one more time, I asked her..."Happy Birthday cake,, Mommy!!" with an even bigger grin. I asked her who's birthday it was today ( we don't have any today), and she picked up her baby doll and said " Today is Faith's Happy Birthday party, Mom!!" So cute!! She finally decided on her breakfast, a highly nutritious one of Fruit Loops, and we went to her pediatrician for her hospital recheck. After that, we decided to enjoy this last day of nice weather. (Only in NY, will it be 78 degrees one day and a forecast of snow the next!!) We picked up my sister and James and headed to the park.

The trip to the park tired the kiddo's out, so while they napped, I went to the grocery store. My mind kept going back to Gracie saying it was Faith's happy birthday. I ended up buying the stuff to make a cake. I got home and made dinner and the cake. After dinner was over, I sent the kids outside with my niece and nephew, and I got the party ready.

This is Emily and Faith. Emily has been with the family now for 3 years!! Faith is actually only a few months old, but we like to celebrate around here!