April 1, 1990

Having a child is one of the most life changing decisions you can make and truly changes your outlook on life. Of course the world has always been a dangerous place but when you become a mother those dangers are more real, more personal. It was a difficult road for us to have a baby but once the doctors figured out why, it happened. My first pregnancy was very easy, I was sick just one time. Our first son was born on September 15, 1986 and since that day my life has never been the same. (In a wonderful way) I didn't think I could love a person any more fiercely than I loved Kevin. Fast forward two years or so. I wasn't getting any younger and since we needed help to become pregnant we thought it was time to start trying. I had something on my mind though. I had a deep fear that I didn't have enough love in my heart for another baby. I would give my life for my son. I talked to my mother about it since she had had three kids in five years. She asked me if I felt loved any less than my two younger sisters and I didn't. She said all children are different and you'll love them for different reasons. There will be times when you may feel that you love one more than the other but usually when that happens there's a reason as to why they need some extra lovin. That was all I needed to hear.

I was pregnant again only this time it was difficult from about the day the baby was conceived. I was sick the entire time and every prenatal test I had came back abnormal. At one point an amniocentesis was offered for a definitive answers and to see if we wanted to do anything about the pregnancy as well as genetic testing. I refused both. Long story short, I ended up in the hospital with three weeks to go. On April 1, 1990 son number two, Cameron, was born. There were complications and both of us almost died that day. I'm happy to say we're both here today, 18 years later! He weighed just 5 lbs. 4 oz at birth and was one scrawny little chicken man but he was feisty and grew into the healthy and happy young man he is today.

My mother was right, both of my kids are very different yet similar. Kevin is typical first born. He is more serious, opinionated and driven. Cameron is more laid back yet more of a risk taker. Both are leaders,respectful, kind and empathetic towards others. I couldn't be more proud of them but today is Cameron's day. Happy Birthday Baby!