One Year Later...

What a year it has been, and looking back on everything that has happened in the past year, I'm not sure I can even summarize my feelings in a blog post. But I don't ever want to forget how faithful God has been to us... and to Brooklyn.

When our children were born, we chose a verse for each of them. For Brooklyn, we chose Ephesians 3:20-21, "Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end." One year later, this verse is so dear to our hearts because we have seen it, time and time again. And we want Him to have all of the glory.

I don't believe in coincidence. So, when Brooklyn came early, but was over a pound heavier than the doctors hoped for, I knew it was God. When she happened to be born in the hospital with the biggest and best NICU for hours and hours around, it wasn't coincidence. When they said she would be in the NICU for six weeks, and she was in discharged on the eighth day, I knew it was God. When we picked the closest available pediatrician off of Google, and she turned out to be one of the top pediatricians in the US who specializes in special-needs children, and teaches up-and-coming residents in medical school... that wasn't by chance. When I reconnected with an old friend on facebook who walked me through the medicaid waiver process... are you getting the picture? God's hand has so clearly been on Brooklyn from day one.

Brooklyn was born a fighter, and she continues to overcome obstacles daily, with a passion. She gets angry, frustrated, and tired, but she keeps at it. And most of the time, she does it with a smile on her face. Through all of the injections and treatments and therapy, she fights. And she has the sweetest spirit I've ever seen. If only we could all stay so sweet in the face of adversity.

I've learned so much from Brooklyn's life, and I can't wait to see what God has in store for her. I don't know why God chose me. Some people might be taken aback by having a special-needs child. And it is not easy, at all. But I honestly don't know why God chose to bless me with this little life. I get to witness miracles all of the time. I get to know unspeakable joy and pride when she accomplishes something she had been working at so hard. I consider myself absolutely blessed beyond what I deserve. God gave me Brooklyn, with all of her extra special needs, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

I'm so thankful for this gift, and can't wait to watch her turn one tomorrow... and see what the Lord has in store for her future many more years... He is so faithful.