Happy 2009 Vera

Dear Vera,

Happy New Year to you. You're 10 months old now. Although you spent the first days of your life surrounded by beeping machines and tubes, you managed to come out and see this wonderful world. Though most times you've been home, you've also been to parks which were too bright for you, you've been on car rides where you enjoy looking at the bright passing lights, and you've seen fireworks for the first time! You must be wondering what the celebration's all about. Let's just say they are for you. Although you've had your 1st fall, your 1st bout of flu, and you're finding it difficult to breathe well with all your congestion in the chest, you're coping with them. From a newborn who could not see or follow very well, you're now captivated by any face that speaks to you and you stare innocently for the longest time. Though you cannot yet swallow well, you did enough to pass your 1st VFSS (swallow study), and you enjoy sips of water by mouth. The best part though is your toothless smile, you respond whenever you're tickled or massaged. All mommy asked for was for you to see and smile - but you've given us so, so much more! Hmmm...looks like we have to set new expectations for you : )

In 2009, you're probably gonna get a g-tube because you're getting quite good at ripping off your ng tube; you're probably gonna go to school for the 1st time (early intervention programme) and get started on vaccinations (we hope you'll take them well).

Mommy and Daddy have been blessed with a lot of people who shower love on you. I think that's why from a highly irritable little baby you're now actually pretty calm and happy (when you're well that is). Love and attention works wonders.

So thank you for coming into our lives. And showing mommy what life is about: Joy through sorrow, achievement through perseverance, and love through kindness.

Happy New Year Vera!