Thursday, May 1, 2008

What a Year!!!



Today is Ethan's 1st birthday!!

In anticipation of today, I've spent a lot of time reflecting on our experiences this last year. As many of you know, Ethan was not a "planned" pregnancy. However, we were very excited when we found out I was pregnant and we truly felt like he was a gift from God. Initially, I doubted my ability as a mother to raise 4 children but I felt that God would not send me another child if he didn't trust me enough to raise and care for him. It wasn't until Ethan was born that I realized how much responsibility my Heavenly Father has entrusted me with. I can't put into words how blessed our family has been to have Ethan in our home. When he was born, our family was complete.

I've created this montage in honor of Ethan who has worked so hard to make his mark in this world. As I have mentioned before, it is a little long (about 10 minutes). The first 2 songs in this montage are extra special to me because I used to play them in the hospital while I sat at his bedside and stroked his tiny head. (At the time I couldn't hold him and it was the only spot I could caress that didn't have protruding wires or tubes.)

I will never forget all of the prayers, love, and support that was given in our behalf during this last year. I want you all to know that we couldn't have done it without you. I pray that together, we will have many more years to celebrate.

I hope that you take the time to watch and honor this amazing milestone with us.

---Allison

14 comments:

carolyn q said...

I will have to take the time to watch your montage tonight when I get the kids to bed and can have a quiet 10 minutes to watch it.
I do hope that Ethan's 1st Birthday is absolutely wonderful. I agree first birthday's are special but this one is extra special.
You are a wonderful mom and I can see why God entrusted you with the children you have to raise.
Hugs,
Carolyn

Kingsford Family said...

Happy 1st Birthday Ethan!!!
May you have many more to come.
Eat lots of cake and ice cream and make the most of this special day!

Michele & Taryn

Christina said...

Happy Birthday Ethan! I hope you have a super fun day. What a blessing this day is.

best wishes,
Christina
Jacob's momma

The Gatherum Family said...

Happy Birthday Ethan! Wow, I am a blubbering mess after watching that video. I don't think I could do it Allison, I really don't. EVERY night my kids pray for Ethan. Here's to many MANY years to come! Love, Adrian

Fowers Family said...

Great Movie, you have a great day!

Gavin's Mama said...

Ethan,

Happy 1st Birthday...may you have many more special birthdays! Hope to meet you one day soon!

Love,

Your Heart Buddy Gavin, mommy & daddy too!

Alison (Abby's Mom) said...

Happy Birthday Ethan! You are an inspiration. I remember when everyone sang Abby Happy Birthday at her first birthday party, I bawled. This is truly a special milestone for you and your family. Enjoy it!

Melanie said...

What a great tribute! He is truly so darling and I love that little smile. I also love how cute he and Gavin are together. Happy Birthday, Ethan!

kelly said...

Well I bawled through the whole thing.
Happy Birthday to Ethan!

Mp said...

Happy Birthday Ethan!!! We love to see these great milestones happen...Ethan is truly a living inspiration. Thanks for sharing the video of his life. Hears to many more celebrations in the future!!!

Hugs,
Mike & Family

Ryan & Brytten Pettit said...

Happy Birthday Ethan, you are one special boy! What did we do to deserve them, we are so blessed?!
love, Brytten (Teagan's mom)

~Rachel said...

Allison,
What a beautiful tribute to Ethan's first year! I cried through the whole thing, not out of sadness but of the joy he brings to all. He is truly a miracle and we love him so!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY little man.
Love Uncle Mike, Aunt Rachie, Ashely, Katy, Sarah, Noah, Jacob and Hannah

Grammy Staffy said...

Dear Curtis family,
I found your blog through looking at Gracie's blog. What an inspirational video you made.
Happy Birthday Ethan!!! May Heavenly Father bless you that you will have many more.

Zaltana said...

What a fantastic tribute to a wonderful little boy. Here's to many many MANY more wonderful birthdays Ethan! We love you and pray for you.
Love,
~the Newbolds~