Independence.......

This year independence means a lot more for me. Last year for the 4th of July we were anxiously awaiting the arrival of the newest member of our family. Sean was safely tucked away in the comforts of my belly. We knew he was safe there. He wouldn't have any heart issues in there. Of course we knew he'd have to come out some time.

I had really hoped that if he was going to come early (I was due July 19) it would be on July 4th. Unfortunately for me it didn't happen. I'd have to continue on through some of the hottest days on record just a little bit longer. I so longed for my independence from him. Don't get me wrong... even though I knew he was safe and even though having him in there gave me the freedom to tote my big behind around in a bikini just a little bit longer..... I longed to.... yearned to see my toes without having to contort in so many different ways. I longed to be able to sleep without swinging my big belly over every single time I turned in my bed.

I needed to be just me again. Not me plus 1.

Of course he came with much fan fare and we decided on a date for his heart surgery. October 4, 2010. That was exactly 9 months ago. I handed my son over to the best surgeon & his team and prayed hard that he would be returned to me with renewed independence. I prayed that he would be freed from the oppression of a bum ticker. And he was. He was given a new lease on life. His bum ticker lived to beat again and beat better.

It's Independence Day 2011 and I'm thankful for the men & women who have & continually fight for our freedom. I'm also thankful beyond words that my son is here, alive & well.