Matt is ONE!

I already posted a photo on Facebook, but I wanted to post here as well. Just to be thorough, and to help in fulfilling my personal vow to blog more this year. On with the show!

Matthew hit a big milestone today - his first birthday!! This is a big deal for any kid, but when it comes to Matt, we are beyond excited to be celebrating the big "1" with him. We weren't sure if he'd make it to this point, quite frankly, after all the difficulties he had at birth. Those of you who don't remember, feel free to read his extremely wordy, four-part birth story that begins HERE. 

One year ago today:

 Just a few hours old, in the NICU.

About a week later, once he was home with us:

 One of Matt's gorgeous newborn photos by Stacy at Sugarbee Photography.

(Check her out! Not only is she a great friend, but she's a great photographer, too! She also has a Facebook page.)

And, one year later:

Mommy's little kitchen "helper."

Taken this afternoon. It's hard to believe how much difference one year can make!

We've had so many people tell us how blessed we are, in reference to our children (and our family as a whole). As much as we agreed, we never really understood the depth of our blessings until Matt came along and blew us away with his strength and ability to overcome. He is such an amazing little boy, and we are so thankful that he's here with us, happy and healthy.

So, to our precious baby boy, Matthew James (Matt, Matty, Matt-Matt, Mattimus, Mattster) - we love you so, so much!! We have enjoyed watching you grow this past year, and we are looking forward to all of the things the future holds.