Happy 4th Birthday, Andrew!

Today is Andrew's 4th birthday! 

It is hard to believe it has been a year since the last one.   Last year Andrew and I spent the day in the clinic.  He received chemo.  I cried my eyes out.

This past Sunday we celebrated with a party. We rented a jump house and he invited his friends.  He was in charge of a portion of the guest list, and his energy could not be contained.  He raced through the house, from activity to activity, from friend to friend, and loved every minute of it.

As I consider the four years of his life, I realize that while I have cried, and been anxious, and ranted, and screamed, he has lived in joy and peace. Ignorance, as they say, has been his bliss. It has also been a huge blessing.

I often remind myself that I have six little eyes watching my every move.  They watch how I behave in difficult situations, express joy, cope with stress, handle disappointment, show love, and live my day-to-day life.  It is a huge responsibility, and I often wish I did a better job, for their sake.

However, over the last year and half, my eyes have watched Andrew live his life.  I have watched him struggle, and cope, and live each day to the fullest, despite difficult circumstances.  I have learned a lot from him.

Things like:

• Never pass up a puddle.
• Jump! Often. Jump! Everywhere!
• Tackle hard.
• Squeeze tightly.
• Ask to be held when you need it.
• Get down when you're ready.
• Defend your brothers, even when you are the smallest one in the room.
• When it hurts to dance, sway.  When it hurts to sing, mouth the words. But never stop moving to the music.
• Remember your friends' favorite things, and their favorite colors.
• Show concern for others, even when you are in pain yourself.
• Climb trees, even when it scares your mother.
• Push all the buttons, at least once.
• Smile. At everyone.
• Keep on running, even when you are in last place.
• A loud roar will always get a reaction. 
• Look past the smell and the sight of the homeless, and see the face of Jesus.
• As often as you can, and whenever you get the chance, grab two supportive hands (or one that's extra strong), lift up your feet, and fly.

Happy Birthday Andrew.  I love you.