Ethan's 8th Birthday was better than his 7th!

On my son's 8th birthday, it was a very happy day. We had a lot of fun, and we were blessed to have such a great kid. I will never forget his 8th birthday. January 27, 2013.

Compare January 27, 2012. That was the day that I got out of the hospital. I was dazed and confused. But, I wanted to celebrate my son's birthday. We went to Red Robin by the Boise mall. It was a Friday night. It was busy. It was crowded. The sounds, the lights, the activity! Too much!

To say that I was nervous was understatement. I was scared.

Then, I had to go to the restroom.

The journey was long and tough! I did not know what to do.

Then, my 7 year old son, grasped my hand and guided me through the restaurant. He held the door, and waited. When I was finished, he held my hand, and made sure that I was safe.

7 years old. He had to grow up too fast because of me.

One year later, he is 8. He is funny, talented, smart, irreverent, energetic, and curious.

On Ethan's 8th birthday, I ran some errands. I drove alone. I went to Home Depot. I shopped at Fred Meyer. It was a beautiful day, and I treated my self with a chocolate milk shake.

I felt so normal. And grateful that I feel so normal.

Later, we went to Red Robin. We laughed. I went to the rest room -- alone!

When we were getting ready for bed, I told Ethan that I loved him so much. He said, "I love you too Daddy." Then he fell asleep.

What a difference a year can make.

I am so blessed.

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