How did we get here . . .

Well how adventurous the last weeks have been. We had a very wonderful birthday party for Johnathon on Sunday (11/9). On his actual birthday (11/11) Becky was able to have a small blood drive in his honor, we had dinner with one our closest friends, and I shadowed a Physician Assistant at my Doctors office. To end the day we came to find our "messaging tree" (the one we used to broadcast a boy or girl when we first found out) covered in blue ribbons with blue cards wishing us messages of hope and joy from our neighborhood friends. It really capped off what was a long day. If you were unable to make it above are pictures from the cemetery on Sunday and of the messaging tree.

"And now the rest of the story . . ." On 11/8 I enjoyed my first games back in hockey. I had 8 shots on goal and delivered a quick shot with hard skating. This left many of my teammates stating that I looked like I had not missed a beat. On the night of 11/9 I basically ended my hockey season. During our softball game I left my comfortable coaching position to partake in the play when a fellow teammate went down. In my one and only at bat I beat out an infield hit. After moving to third while jogging home I felt a twinge and something slide across the back of my leg. Instantly I knew this was not good and I began to keep moving and stretching as I could feel my leg seize up and I was not going to let this happen. The game ended shortly after this when Becky scored the final blowout run (please note Becky needs practice on sliding or else she is going to keep ending up severely bruised). Upon reaching home the leg locked up and I began icing it. After a couple of days Becky and I thought I was out of the woods as the swelling was minimal but no bruising had occurred. On 11/12 the bruising showed in a big way, covering half of the back of my leg.

After visiting the Doctor he diagnosed it as a grade 2 hamstring sprain (partially torn with active bleeding). So here I am back in physical therapy with little hope of returning back to hockey soon. Today I made the decision that I would return back to the ice for one more go at it on 12/6. Whether I make it for one game or one shift, my son taught me one key thing about life. No matter what you do keep trying. Being that this was the day he passed away I know he would want me to push hard. I am requesting any prayers of healing you can offer to send my way. I greatly appreciate this as my return to the ice not only signifies strength and perseverance but also my understanding that life must go one. Johnathon offered us a great chance to live the life of being child rearing parents. Though it was only a small taste, it was one that filled me with a lifetime of memories.

Thanksgiving will soon be upon us. Just like the title of the holiday Becky and I have much to be thankful for. We will be hosting a thanksgiving dinner get together with some of our closest friends and family members at our house this year. I hope to post a list of all of the things I am thankful for in the upcoming week. Till then stay safe, stay strong, and enjoy the life that we have (we only live once).

An Open Letter to Johnathon

Happy Birthday Johnathon,

Your party Sunday was so wonderful. All of your friends brought you presents of soft cuddly animals. Your Mom brought balloons and birthday cupcakes. Pastor Eddie gave a wonderful sermon regarding eternity and all of those who we may see there someday. Even those who could not attend the party sent cards, letters, emails, and gifts in your honor. The most beautiful thing we did was release the balloons so that they could float up to you. Though we miss you dearly I am not sad today. For today one year ago at 8:01 am you came into our lives. Everything was perfect at this moment. Though you never made a sound your voice was heard quite loud.

Johnathon, of all the gifts delivered the greatest gift of all has already been received. You coming into my life was the greatest gift your Mommy could have given to me. Though we both miss you dearly, be happy son. Today is a great day as you taught us to be parents of the greatest gift God can give us. There should be no tears of sadness only tears of joy. Happy birthday my precious angel and don't eat too much icing and get a tummy ache.

Forever Love,
Dad

P.S.
Mommy and I are so thankful for everyone during this time and I wish I was able to list all of their names but this list would be almost never ending. You truly captured many hearts.

Guess Who's Birthday is coming up????

November 11th is Johnathon's 1st birthday. We decided that we would throw a couple of parties in his honor. The first party would be this Sunday November 9th. We will be meeting at 11:00am to attend church at Calvary Baptist Church (in Euless) and then we will have lunch at Main St. Bar-B-Que at 12:15pm. After lunch (around 1:30) for those who want to attend we will hold a birthday decorating party at the cemetery for Johnathon. Feel free to come and go to any of the 3 events on Sunday.

On Tuesday November 11th Becky and several friends will be donating blood at Carter Bloodcare in Johnathon's honor. If you are able to attend, we would love for you to come and give the precious gift of life. Please contact Becky or myself as we are setting up times for the blood donations now.

We hope that you will be able to attend and share in this special occasion as we celebrate Johnathon's birthday. Thanks and God Bless.