To my Maggie, on her birthday: 
I never dreamed in a million years that today, in 2015, I would have a little person who is 10 big years old. It was only yesterday that I was this age, right? Margaret Grace Bland danced into our lives on July 7, 2005, and made our days richer, our moments funnier, and our hearts larger. She is so very smart, silly, and witty. She redefined my life by making me a mother. And, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Happy Birthday, Maggie. You are the 1st most special blessing I have ever received. You make my days 1 billion times better. Thank you for hugs, kisses, night time ‘nuggles,’ and infinite amounts of giggles. Daddy, Samuel, and I are so very thankful for the gift that is you.

In just a few, short minutes her double digit birthday will come to an end, and with it, another day closes with the flu in our house. 

I worried last night that, although Maggie’s party was last weekend, she might have a miserable birthday today. I knew we’d be couped up in the house and that Samuel would be miserable with fever. But, she just made me even more thankful to be her mama. We watched Little House and ate lunch together, while Sam slept. It was such a good day, and she was content. 

Our sweet friends had a guinea pig that they gave to Maggie for her birthday. She has wanted one for years, and we have always said no, but for some reason my heart changed its mind. So, Waddles made his way into Maggie’s world today, and she is smitten. 

   
 
He is really cute and makes such sweet noises. I think I like him, too!  

Over the 4th of July weekend, we had our annual waterslide fun at my folks’. Maggie’s party was a lot of fun, and she got to spend a few nights at Granna and Grandpa’s with her cousin, Avery. They are fantastic friends, and there were plenty of giggles during our stay. 

   
    
    
    
 
Samuel is seeing an immunologist soon, as a lot of Dup15 kids have mitochondrial issues and weakened immune systems. Having the flu 3 times in 6 months is abnormal, and some of his blood work came back elevated, so it looks like he may need some immunoglobulin therapy to help fight illnesses that come his way.  We are praying continously for answers. 

Next week, Mag, Sam, and I get to join Scott for a couple of weeks in Colorado, while he works. We are really excited about having a semi-vacation and being able to enjoy new scenery for a while. I can’t wait for mountain air and views, along with a new zoo to visit, and the quaint shops downtown. It will be a much-needed change.