twenty-one.5

Each morning, the first thing I do is look at my memories on Facebook.  I realize this might be sad.  But, mostly it is a mood booster.  It's a way to get me ready for my day.  For the past week, the memories have been a good reminder of this season--to be thankful.  And, boy, am I thankful.  For so much, but mostly this journey God has placed us on.  The unexpected journey that has turned out to be so full of love and community.  The memories in the past week are a constant reminder of all of the things I am extremely thankful for.  I remember this day so well.  Today was the day the genetic testing came back.  I remember sitting in our special room in the step down unit and hearing the doctor say, "oh no....oooohhhh no."  I honestly think he was worried about coming to tell us our son had Down Syndrome.  Little did he know I had already accepted this diagnosis and wasn't scared, fearful, sad, or really any negative feeling.  I was hopeful.  I knew this boy was full of hope.  I knew my family was just filled with a new hope in Alex.  Dr. Vitaliy had no reason to be afraid of delivering the diagnosis to us.  Perhaps he was surprised when we didn't cry.  I remember him rubbing my back and telling me it would be okay--and that he had his own son with a disability.  Again, this was God's plan.  To make Dr. Vitaliy the doctor on duty for our diagnosis.  This Dr. Vitaliy is like no other.  When he hugged me that afternoon before leaving, it was a heartfelt hug.  He cared.  Deeply cared.  And, that folks, is exactly what we have experienced along the way.  People who care.  Perhaps it is easy to care because Alex is who he is.  Perhaps there are just that many good people in the world.  Perhaps it's a combination of both.  But, for those reasons, I am far from sad with Alex's diagnosis.  I'm kind of excited to see where he is going to take Down Syndrome.  I'm excited to be a spectator to see what barriers he is able to break down.  I'm excited to see what inclusion looks like for this family.  I'm excited for his life.  There's no reason to be sorry--he's a sweet boy who just turned 1!  And, for that we celebrate!!  And, in case you wondered, he's pretty sweet even when he sleeps!  Enjoy your day and remember to be thankful for the many blessings in your life--especially the little, unexpected ones!