Happy Birthday my little Casey bug!  Three years ~ where did the time go?  I hope someday you read this, when you are older, and can appreciate what I'm about to say.  In your short 3 years, you have endured more than most.  An endless stream of ambulances showing up at our house at all times of day.  Countless trips to the E.R., many of which ripped you out of your cozy bed in the middle of the night.  Many frightening moments when you saw mommy and daddy run to brother's side as he seized...with big tears in your eyes as you watched.  Who knows how many nights you are awakened by brother's noisy raspberry sounds and shrieks when he can't sleep.  You have a big brother who can't talk, can't play, and doesn't really notice you.

And yet you've blossomed despite it all...a true sign of God's redeeming power.  You are the smiliest, happiest, funniest, most sparkly little one I've ever seen.  Your eyes glisten all day every day.  You are undaunted, unstoppable, and ever joyful.  How do you do it?   God is fashioning the most compassionate, tender little heart in you as a result of the crazy family you were born into. 

I've seen you lay your hand on brother and pray for him as he seizes.  I've heard your tender prayers of  "God, please heal Cody's brain so he can talk to me" every single night.  I've seen you excited to learn sign language so you can communicate with him.  And I've seen how you approach others with disabilities and treat them like they are special, unique, and of high worth.  When other kids ask you 'what's wrong' with Cody ~ I've heard you answer, 'His brain is different.  But God doesn't make mistakes!' 

In short - you have taken the challenges you've been given - and turned them into victories.  You honor the Lord with all of these choices.  And someday when you are old enough to truly understand this post, you will know why your daddy and I treasure you more than life itself. 

And beyond all of the ways you overcome the adversities in our life....you are just YOU!  You say the funniest things!!  I love the way your little brain works.  I love it that you love to read books all day and all night!  I love your tousled blonde curls, your fat little feet, and your sweet singing voice.  I love your heart.  God blessed us beyond our wildest dreams when He gave you to us.  And no matter how old you are, we will always be here for you ~ loving you ~ cheering for you ~ and believing in you. 

We have a lot of fun in store for today...a picnic at the beach, a birthday celebration with family, and some pretty cool presents!  But the real present is getting to live out these last 3 years watching you, be you!  Thank you little man!

with hugs and kisses,

mommy