Thursday 21 July 2011

Anniversary

Dear Joseph,

The 21st July will always be an important date to me, even more important than your EDD (estimated due date). I don't think a year will go by that I don't reminisce about this day, in 2009.

I had roomed in with you, and the morning was so busy. You lay in your crib, very content, you had a feed at around 11, and then dear J, our ward sister came in to speak to me. She explained how thrilled she was with both you and I, and how well you had done. She explained about the four medications you would need to have daily, and she explained about your milk, and how to organise prescriptions. It was clear that she was emotional, you were one of the smallest babies to have been accommodated on that unit from the moment of your birth until the day of discharge. She was immensely proud of you.

Finally at around 3pm we were allowed to leave. Your dad drove so carefully and slowly, and we finally got you back to our little flat in Stubbins. We opened the door and your dad took you around the flat and told you all about where we lived. We put you down, and Atticus the cat, came up and sniffed. It was then we realised that you were actually very very small! Atticus was twice your size!

I don't remember much of that day. I remember my friend Jenni popping around with some baby things, I don't remember what we ate. I remember the crib being at the side of my bed, and being so excited. We all went to bed at the same time, and I couldn't stop touching you. After a few nights I had to move you to the foot of the bed, as it was too distracting having you near me.

I remember on the Friday after you came home on the Tuesday, I took you for your first outing. We went to the toy shop, and to the Cultured Bean. You were in the sling, all nestled and safe, whilst I had a drink and tea cake. Your dad came to pick us up and take us home. I was so proud to have you with me.

The last two years have gone in a blur. I still sometimes can't believe that this strapping, grown up, clever little boy is the same baby, so tiny, so sick. You grasp life with both hands. You are stroppy, you are opinionated and you are, quite frankly, hilarious. You know what you want, and you do whatever it takes to get it. And I love that, I love your spirit, and your humour. I think you are amazing. And never let anyone tell you any different.

Love

Mum

Joseph enjoying a special homecoming cupcake!

10 comments:

  1. *sniff* Lovely post :)

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  2. Absolutely love this post :D Joseph you are one of the cheekiest little chaps I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, and your Mummy is rather lovely too (though don't tell her I said that ;) )
    Happy homecoming Day and may you continue to amaze (and amuse) your Mummy :D
    xxxx

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  3. Another *sniff* here. Bless you

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  4. Laura Precious21 July 2011 at 15:58

    That is such a lovely post. A very special day to celebrate. x

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  5. I think I've got something in my eye. Excuse me.

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  6. Lovely post, really wonderful.

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  7. What a beautiful post.

    Happy Homecoming Day Joseph! Your mummy is rightly very proud of you.

    Sam xxxx

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  8. Fabulous post and so glad that I could be there to see you both on this very special anniversary!! Completely agree with the hilarious comment, that grin is enough to melt icebergs!!xx

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  9. ha ha ha NOMMMM!!! Such a beautiful story and a great picture to remind us all that strength and hope come from adversity! Happy anniversary to you both (and Daddy of course xxx)

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