By 
Thirty two years ago today Don and I were at the hospital. I was in denial, if that is possible when you are in labor, that Alex would be born that night. He was 2 days early, and because his sister had been very very late, I was convinced he would be too. Anybody looking at me would have said NO I don't think so! Earlier in the day, even my doctor told me he would make his arrival later in the day. He was right, it was a short labor, Alex was born right before midnight. He was 2 1/2 lbs. larger than his sister, and we were absolutely thrilled we had our girl, and now our boy. And we still are. But Alex will always be my baby. And he is still cute, just as cute as this picture shows! Happy Birthday Alex, from one proud Mom and Dad.
'Sqwahr' is how a beautiful girl in our family tried to say ‘squirrel’ when she was two years old. She was embracing the human need to communicate and express, even if the attempt wasn’t perfect. Welcome to our family and other sqwahrs.
Happy Birthday Baby Boy
Thirty two years ago today Don and I were at the hospital. I was in denial, if that is possible when you are in labor, that Alex would be born that night. He was 2 days early, and because his sister had been very very late, I was convinced he would be too. Anybody looking at me would have said NO I don't think so! Earlier in the day, even my doctor told me he would make his arrival later in the day. He was right, it was a short labor, Alex was born right before midnight. He was 2 1/2 lbs. larger than his sister, and we were absolutely thrilled we had our girl, and now our boy. And we still are. But Alex will always be my baby. And he is still cute, just as cute as this picture shows! Happy Birthday Alex, from one proud Mom and Dad.
I love asking experienced parents what they remember most about their children's childhood. I'm part of various Mom's Groups where discussions on bullying, personal gifts and safety are primary concerns for parents. However, what was really important to your children when you look back?
Happy Birthday, Alex.
Happy Brother Day, Michelle.
Happy Son Day, Don and Michele.
Thanks Tiffany! Actually, it should be "Happy Husband Day, Michelle"! Sorry for any confusion. Michelle is my Wife, Michele is my Mom. Please don't read too much into my wife and mother having the same name.... at least it's spelled differently.
Tiffany, I would almost like to ask Shannon and Alex what was most important to them, from their point of view. But from mine, I guess I would say having the dogs that we did, seemed to be something they both enjoyed a lot! They loved to travel when we did, and they loved swimming. We had an inground at the home they mainly grew up in, and that was a highlight. Then we started the cottage thing, sold the house with pool as we had the cottage. They enjoyed friends over and family. Since they were the two oldest grandchildren, it was Aunts and Uncles for awhile, but they were not old people. I'm the oldest on my side of the family, and everyone was younger. We didn't see Don's side too much,as they lived 3 hours away. Main reason. For awhile the piano was very big in Shannon's life, but she started when she was 5. Loved it. By the time she was 9, school was taking over and she wanted to quit. I was tired of trying to get practicing in, so she did. She now regrets not playing. I don't know what I would have done differently, looking into a crystal ball would have helped! Alex liked sports, a lot, and wrestled in high school. He set a goal for himself that he would make All City, and he was in his senior year. He also made All City Academic, an honor as well. Their education was probably the most important thing for us, for them, as we sent them to Catholic schools for their entire 12 years. So in connection, religion for me was important for them,to be exposed to it, and to understand it. Now they are making up their own minds and I have no problem with that. We gave them a solid foundation for their lives and I am very grateful that we were able to do it. I don't think this generation will be able to do that for their children. Too expensive. How's that?! Did I answer what you wanted?
Happy Birthday Alex
Mum's prerogative to embarrass eh?
I have a great time TRYING to embarrass our kids.
You were very lucky here, Michele posted a photo that is
cute.
Have a great day and don't get too close to the candles!
By the way think you look like your Dad.
Good photo though.
Well done Michele
I did briefly think of the few pictures we have of Alex on the fake fur rug, sans diaper. He was about 6 months old. Just couldn't do it. I like the one I chose, he was such a darling, just like he is now.
And speaking of candles, I do have one of Alex and Shannon at his second birthday, and Shannon is holding him back from the candles! She was 5. It's very sweet...