Giving Back

We have been so very blessed. The outpouring of love and support from our friends, family and all those that we come in contact with this past year is humbling.  We could never repay everyone for all of the warm thoughts and prayers for our sweet baby Matthew and our family, the meals, the visits at the hospital, the offers to take care of Alyssa and Jackson, the donations in Matthew's name to the Ronald McDonald House and the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital, the hugs, smiles, the shows of support, etc.  Words are not enough, but thank you!!

We have been given so much and are thrilled it can be passed along.  First, Brooke, our amazing photographer, is giving another deserving family a free session in honor of Matthew's birthday.  More details on her blog.  She has given us so much, the gift of her time and talent, and she's left us with the most beautiful reminders of our life.  We are so excited that another family will benefit from Matthew's big day!

Additionally, last night, we were able to give a gift that meant so much to us a year ago. I will never forget how relieved I was when I walked into the Ronald McDonald House late one night, stressed and tired, dreading the walk to another hospital to get food, and there was a group serving dinner.  I cried.  That warm meal and smile meant the world to me.  And last night, we were able to give that gift to someone else.  A friend and I served dinner at the Ronald McDonald House at Texas Children's Hospital. The looks on their faces were the same looks we must have had on ours a year ago.  How far we've come!  It felt great to give that gift back.  And when asked why we were there, I explained it was in honor of Matthew's first year, and Matthew is doing great.  He served as a success story.  What a great feeling!

Thank you to Allison who made the cornbread, Kellyann who made the salad, Jennifer M who provided the sodas and Kirsten who made the desserts and helped serve.  All of that, added to the crawfish etouffee was the perfect meal for Ash Wednesday.  It was a great way to honor Matthew's first year.  Thank you!  And thank you to all of our friends and family!  This past year would have been unbearable without you.  We love you!