We are the Stow Family and this is our story. Our lives are blessed by Love, Joy and Hope. Follow our sometimes interesting stories on loving our two boys, exploring parenthood, and celebrating a little extra - two parents, two boys and an extra chromosome!

Monday, January 5, 2009

Gratitude for a New Year









Dearest Malakai,

Happy 2009 my angel! I am always excited at the prospect of a new year, a canvas that is clear and ready for us to fill with colour and laughter and milestones and joy!

We had a really great holiday in Durban - your first road trip! You were really excellent in the car for 6 hours, but we did travel at night so that you could sleep the whole way. We got to visit your Granny Rowe (Daddy's mom) and you met your cousins Joshua and Amber! We stayed with Granny Dye and we also visited Megan, Conrad and Keaton in Scottborough. You sat on the beach for the first time and you absolutely loved the sea sand! You were full of it by the time we had to leave!
Otherwise, you have done so many new things over the past two weeks - you are now sitting (like a tripod) for short times, you are rolling from your back onto your tummy and you are really enjoying playing with your toys now! Also, you spent your first night in your room last night. Needless to say, you took it in your stride without any problems! I can't believe how you are growing and changing!

My angel, I know that the next year will bring many more exciting times for us. I look so forward to every day with you! I know that you are going to do well and mommy and daddy will be by your side every step of the way!

I am also excited because I have found a place called The Institutes in the USA that has had great success in working with babies with Down syndrome - not only do the children who go on this programe keep up with their peers, but they actually read, write, talk and do math above average! Mommy is excited and is going to learn more about this programme and see if we can do it here for you! This just confirms for me that we must never 'downsize' our dreams for you - rather we must dream big and walk tall! In a world where many other babies with Down syndrome are even denied the right to live, we will never leave you behind my angel! We will fight for your right to be here, to be healthy, to be loved and to be accepted!

You are always and forever my Reason for Being,
Love,
Mom

5 comments:

Elriza Paul said...

Wow, absolutely love the photos, especially the ones by the sea! Glad you guys are back safely and hope to see you soon!

Lots of Love
Elriza, Wes & caden

Life As I Know It... said...

Hi Loren,

The pictures are stunning and Malakai is adorable!

Have a great new year!

Claire & Family!

The Sanchez Family said...

Malakai is gorgeous!!!! I am so happy to have found you, Malakai and your blog. I look forward to reading it all. Malakai is a blessing for you but you too are a blessing for him :)!!!!
Thank goodness for parents like you.

Bethany said...

Hi! Thanks for stopping by my blog and letting me know you are out here in bloggy land! Your son is gorgeous!! Holy cow!

Unknown said...

What amazing photos dear Loren! I knew when you were taking them that they would be absolutely stunning! It was an honor and privledge to bring in the new year with you and Darryl and little Kai! Thanks for being such great friends - actually the very best! May this year bring you all lots of peace, love and joy! God bless! Megs