As I sit back and reflect on this last year I cannot help but have a smile on my face. A smile that often wasn't there, rather a look of sadness, worry or uncertainty was in its place. But for today there is a smile. A smile as I think about not what my daughter went through, but that she was strong enough to overcome. A smile as I think about all the moments that I was able to share with her that, at times, I didn't know if a would. A smile that was there as I watched her learn to drink from a bottle at almost 2 months of age, roll over, learn to verbalize her emotions, "crawl", sit up, smile and go on as though the world, for her, was perfect. I cannot fully express my gratitude to so many of you who have gotten us to where we are today. I know the faith and prayers of so many of you have made the difference in this journey.Darla Jane is truly a miracle, a blessing in the lives of those in our family and those she comes in contact with. Her smile can light up the down hearted. Her presence teaches all that there is so much more than just us.
She is so much more than a child with a heart defect. She is a teacher, an inspiration and and angel on earth.
We would love it if you would take a moment to leave a comment for her, something that when she read it, as she gets older, she will know of the difference she has made in the lives of so many from the time that she was born.
When I am around DJ, it is very apparent that she has such a distinct spirit about her--a spirit that is strong but tender, and definately special! So grateful I have been able to witness the miracle that she is. And I will never forget those sweet cheeks with that beautiful red hair! I hope DJ will come to understand someday what INCREDIBLY AMAZING parents she has!! Happy birthday sweet girl!
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday sweet girl! She definitely has a light about her! She is absolutely adorable!
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday Darla Jane! There were many moments on your birthday that I thought about the moments that proceeded your birth only a year before. What a miracle and a blessing you are! You have helped so many strengthen their testimony of faith and prayer. You are such a sweet and happy little girl. I cannot wait until you and Sasha are running around together, wanting to spend every moment together:) We love you DJ!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday little Darla Jane! Ivy, Tanner and I love you so much. They ask about you nearly every week and want to know how big your getting. They still remember coming out to meet you when you were just 3 months old. We wish that we all could live closer so that they could grow up with you, and we also understand how important it is for you to live close to the best children's hospital around. We think of you and your brothers and sister often. We love you very much and hope you have a wonderful birthday!!
ReplyDelete~Love Auntie Sheri, Ivy and Tanner.
Okay first of all, little Darla Jane, the picture of you hanging out eating cheerios with your head resting in your hand is stinkin' hilarious. You are such a cute ball of love I only wish our families would have spent more time together. I loved meeting you on your first day of life and watching the life flight team get you settled into your hospital bed after an adventurous helicopter ride. I loved meeting your parents and admired the smiles they had on their faces when being hit with a tornado. You were Zeke's first heart friend, and his neighbor in this hospital for a few weeks. It's been fun to watch your progress and see you every so often. I hope you had a fabulous time smearing cake on your face. :)
ReplyDeletelove and hugs, Jenn, Royal, Andelyn, Titan, and Zeke
From Grandma Julie
ReplyDeleteTo darling darla Jane!
Oh how grateful and happy we are for your first birthday! It is a day to celebrate the life of a little princess who is so very special to me. We have been so proud of your whole family this year....they have shown such faith and strength and patience, and they have found great joy in your beautiful life.
We were so happy to get to see you on FaceTime for your birthday...you were happy, smiling and chattering up a storm in your cute little sun hat, rolling around in your walker while you were out helping your daddy work in the garage.
You are an angel from heaven and we thank our Heavenly Father for sending you to us and preserving your life. I love you so much!!!!
Love,
Grandma Julie
From Grandpa Dave:
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday my little princess. What a year of miracles it has been. We are grateful that since you were born you have lifted us by the strength of your amazing spirit, just as your infectious laugh now fills our hearts with joy. We loved your enthusiastic approach to your birthday cake – way to go girl. We have learned more than ever through your example, the example of your parents and your brother and sisters the value of each day and the importance of choosing to be happy and celebrating all we love, every day. Your special spirit has drawn us all closer to our loving Heavenly Father as we all prayed for you and then watch his loving hands embrace you and your family. We look forward to years of enjoying each day watch you grow up. Love you forever, Grandpa
Dave