McKenzie's 5

5 years ago, I was given the most precious gift ~ McKenzie Raye.  I had waited my whole life for this baby but had no idea just how much this little one would change my life.  Her entrance into the world was a rocky one.  She was whisked off to the NICU with daddy hot on their heels.  She was 7lbs and 7oz ~ 100% fighter.  McKenzie was born with an unnamed chromosome disorder.  She has challenges but almost always has a smile on her face.  There are some really tough days when you are the parent of a child with special needs.  More doctors than you care to juggle.  More therapy appointments than can possibly be scheduled in a week.  Sleepless nights either because they are awake or you are awake waiting to hear a noise.  You have to learn how to navigate questions, comments and looks, and accept a completely different way of life than the stuff you imagined.

The great thing about having a child with special needs is that you find the best doctors.  You are taught physical, occupational, speech, and other types of therapy.  You become very organized ~ because your priorities change. You are able to navigate questions, comments and looks ~ sometimes with grace ~ sometimes with sarcasm!  You welcome a completely different way of life.

The best part... you find people that love their children for everything they are and are not.  Parents that truly celebrate each and every milestone. People with huge hearts that would do absolutely anything for your child.  It's never about where you live, the car you drive, your job title, how many vacations you take... it's about waiting for that first step, that first word, sorting colors, coloring for more than 10 seconds, grabbing your hand to communicate their wants, signing "more" when swinging and listening to the most awesome giggle in the world. 

I love you

Happy Birthday McKenzie!!!