stretching socks to slide over toes, pulling cotton over heels, doing what you can not; and yet you can walk--back-swayed, arms out, pigeon-toed--but amble you do, and who knew ten years ago today when we hoisted you into sunlight, the first grace of gold on your growing cheeks.
And here we are, me growing tired of your questions, after I once prayed for you to speak, your voice like a beacon I longed to reach as I watched machines breathe in, breathe out, breathe in, breathe out...
...as I stood with my hand on your tiny head, like a golden egg I hoped to protect with the power of my palm, and the collective prayers of people worldwide you had yet to meet-- a mosaic of hearts who held you, held me, as their own.
And despite it all-- worry, fear, confusion, grief-- they never let go.
And now here you are, so tall, all right angles and grip, curiosity and grit, running up the beach, saying, "Drop, Tonz, drop," hucking that ball far out into the sea, just a boy and a dog, playing fetch, and yet stitched together with universal love, and a miracle that hides below the waves, as that same May sun warms us all, each and every one.
After 94 days in the NICU, we were so blessed to bring you home, happy homecoming Elias!
Happy Homecoming Day, Elias! I love you so much and am so proud of all that you have become out here in the big world with its elevators and house numbers and adventures every day! Hope to see you soon, buddy!
Posted by: Ginna | 05/06/2014 at 01:38 AM
Beautiful. Remember the day he came home from the hospital like yesterday and look at him now! It is all the love you and Nick give him! You two are the best!
Posted by: Mom and Dad | 05/06/2014 at 05:54 AM
Love this one too!
Posted by: Greta | 05/14/2014 at 06:38 AM