Happy Birthday, Brennan!!!

Today is Brennan's 1st Birthday!!! I honestly can't believe he's a year old already. This has been the fastest year of my life. And while the year has been a quick one, I feel like I have learned more than is possible in just one year. To think that one year ago, I knew absolutely nothing (really absolutely nothing!) about Down syndrome and now I know so much about all aspects of it....as if Down syndrome has always been a part of my life. I have spent countless hours reading books, articles and blogs, have attended conferences, workshops, classes and have been honored to meet many families who are travelling the same path. But, alas, today is supposed to be about Brennan and not about me.

From the day Brennan was born, he has looked directly into my eyes, like he could see straight into my soul. He reassured me that I was the right Mom for him, even when I wasn't sure that I was. I will never forget the first time he smiled at me and the tears I cried as I felt like he was telling me that everything really would be okay. He has such a calming effect on me and on others. My friend, Brooke, once said "if you're ever having a stressful day, all you need to do is hold Brennan and you will immediately feel a sense of calm." Even Eric, who is admittedly not a "baby person" loves getting one on one time with our little man.

Brennan smiles like he means it. He gets the biggest smile when he sees me - as if I'm a long lost friend he is so happily surprised to see. He is adored by his siblings and loves them in return. He can be somewhat shy and reserved around people outside of our family, but at home he just glows. He's the perfect addition to our family and I love him more than I ever thought possible. Happy Birthday to our sweet little ray of sunshine!