HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUCY!!!

One year ago today, Lucille Amelia Mekkelson entered our lives.  As a newborn, she endured things that no adult should ever have to experience.  But she was amazingly tough, and she inspired us to stay strong and have faith in her ability to survive, heal, and thrive.  To this day, she continues to inspire us and serves as a daily reminder of how precious life is.  And she continues to inspire and give hope to others who are facing a scary and uncertain future clouded by the specter of gastroschisis.  

Happy, happy, happy birthday my sweet little Lucille.  A year ago, it seemed like this day would never come.  Words simply can't describe the emotions I feel when I think back on where we were then, and where we are now.

And just in case there still some tissues left in that box, I will close with Erik's heart-melting Facebook tribute to the birthday girl...

Her name means light and she was born on the summer solstice...and she's also apparently a Miami Heat fan (we'll forgive her for that last one). So it's no surprise she brightens the day of anyone around her like a ray of warm sunshine, whether it's her proud parents & grandparents or the guy stocking shelves at the grocery store. Happy 1st birthday Lucille. WE LOVE YOU! 

First Taste of Milk

Lucy turns ONE YEAR OLD TOMORROW!!!  Let that sink in for a minute.  That means it's time to switch from formula to cow's milk, and thank goodness, because formula ain't cheap.  Here she is experiencing her first taste of milk, and letting out an impressive burp of approval.

And here she is playing her new favorite game, Close the Door.

E-I-E-I-O

Here's what Lucy is learning at daycare...