Santa, is that really you?

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year!

Our first Christmas with Daniel, was in a word amazing!! We know he will not remember any of it, but to have him home with us and hold him, was by far the best Christmas gift imaginable. To have Christmas dinner with family, and know that he was right next to us throughout the day, was a miracle.

It all hit me Christmas morning, when I ran out to church before the busy day started up, that this Christmas could have been a lot different. But with all the love, prayers, support, and medical care, Daniel is well on his way to continued health and progress.

Anthony and I wrapped many toys for Daniel, and WE definitely got the biggest kick out of all the gifts, more so than Daniel. But we made a big fuss over all his toys.Our family and friends help to SPOIL Daniel this year. We already need to purchase a toy chest, as everyone was so generous.

You will see that “SANTA” (AKA,  Uncle Ryan ) dropped by for a special visit to our Christmas angel.

Unfortunately we have to share a bit of bad news as well. We were at the pediatric ophthalmologist this Monday, and Daniel is very near sighted in his left eye. It is not focusing well, and he will have to start wearing glasses before he turns one. As for the next few months, we will have to patch his Right eye every day for aprx. 5 hours to make his Left eye do “more work” and focus more. Near sightedness cannot be cured, but at least we can hopefully strengthen the eye.

It was difficult news for Anthony and I, as we were becoming so accustomed to sharing good news. But in the scope of Daniel’s roller coaster beginning, we need to put in into perspective. So, after a few hours of feeling a bit sorry for ourselves and for Daniel, accompanied by some tears, we gave ourselves a “reality check.”

Daniel has plowed through all obstacles before, and he will take this one on as well. We know that ALL children in the eyes of their parents are the most wonderful gift,  and they are. But Anthony and I firmly believe that Daniel is destined for something great. We don’t know what it is, when it will happen, or the reason for it. We just believe it in our hearts, and it is this belief we keep reminding ourselves of when the bumps in the road occur. If Daniel is always brave, he should expect nothing less from his parents.

Please enjoy the holiday photos , and know that we said prayers of thanks to all of you, for the collective love you have all sent our way this holiday season and always.

Here is to a great 2009!

With much love,Christine, Anthony, and DANIEL

PS Other updates. Daniel is 16 lbs, 6 ounces, 26 inches long. Daniel will have his next visit to the pulmonologist in early Jan. Also, Daniel had his first visit with Early Development Dept. at Robert Wood Johnson. Daniel is doing well, a little weak in his shoulders, but will get stronger with increased tummy time exercises.

Daniel and Mommy on Christmas morning getting ready to open presents.

FYI, we wanted to let you know that the beard is fake. Hard to believe, it looks so real

Daniel in his Christmas outfit.

Just doing some tummy time!

Dan the Pirate!

Daddy and Daniel just hanging out!

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