Happy Birthday Coy!

Our baby boy,

Words can not express how your presence has changed this world and our lives forever. You are the sweetest gift God has ever given and our love for you is immeasurable. On this day one year ago, you entered this world 4 months too soon. You were so tiny (weighing only 1 lb 4 oz) that daddy's wedding ring fit over your foot and hung on your little leg.

I still remember the first time I saw you, the first time I kissed you, and the first time I held you at 2 weeks old.


We didn't know how long God was going to let you be with us, so we cherished each and every second by your side. We stayed next to you everyday, along with your Grandparents, Aunts, and Uncles and Cousins. You quickly charmed your way into the hearts of many nurses; your angels who watched your every move. They loved you, and kept your mommy and daddy comforted and supported as well.


Each day that you stayed with us, was a victory and a gift. We didn't take a moment for granted, not knowing if it'd be our last with you. Every passing second, someone around the world was praying for your life and your healing. Mommy and Daddy are ever so grateful.


As we sat next to you everyday, we prayed and hoped and begged. We begged God for your life, your existence, your survival. We begged for the day that we could bring you home, the day you would sleep in your crib, crawl around the house, play baseball with daddy. We would have given anything for you. Anything.






The hours turned into days, the days into weeks, the weeks into months. You stayed mighty and brave and got stronger with every day. Three and a half months after your early arrival, you were well enough to come home! Daddy and I couldn't have been more excited!

You adapted quickly to life in your new home and mommy and daddy did too. You kept us awake many nights with feedings, diaper changes, and rocking, but we loved every second. Your Aunt Steph & Uncle Chase, Aunt Jenny & Uncle Tim, cousin Ryder, Aunt Mandy, along with your Grandma's & Grandpa's helped us those first few weeks you were home. Your Uncle Matthew, Uncle Thomas and Aunt Sara were also always thinking and praying for you; your cousins Macey & Thomas were born one month after you. They all couldn't love you more!


The weeks flew by and mommy loved staying home with you each and everyday. It was a challenge and was by far the hardest job I've ever had! But it was a dream come true. You are a dream come true.













Now at 1 year old, you are by far, the sweetest, most beautiful, loving baby boy I've ever seen. You never cease to amaze us with your courage and strength. You continue to develop and thrive and are growing by leaps and bounds. Mommy gets told by strangers and friends alike, that you have the most beautiful blue eyes and a gorgeous, warm smile. You love life, you love to laugh, you love to smile, and play. You have the sweetest demeanor and couldn't be happier.

You are crawling everywhere, absolutely LOVE your "sisters" Sugar Pie & Dixie, snuggle up with mommy and daddy when you fall asleep, and love to play with your toys. You are such a charmer and make friends everywhere we go. Mommy already says how you have 10 girlfriends. You seem to be mesmerized with your Aunt Steph. We call her #1's (aka #1 girlfriend).

Everyday is a day full of joy, love, thankfulness, and gratitude. A day we didn't know we had and days we don't take for granted. The doctors gave a 2% chance that you would turn out the way you are; we didn't care, we wanted you just as God intended. We love you more than life itself and cannot imagine life without you.

You are everything and more. God healed you to perfection. You are His son and we are thankful for this time on earth. We love you baby boy.

Happy 1st birthday!



(Last two pictures taken by Tasha Pool with Homeshade Photography)

Love,

Mommy & Daddy