Meatball,
Another year has passed us by. I look at you and see a sweet little chubby boy and it's nearly impossible to picture you as a mini man.
14. WHAT?!?
You weren't born into the easiest of circumstances and I wish I could have made that better for you. What I do know is you were loved beyond words. I entered the hospital super pregnant at 42 weeks. You were stubborn and very happy just hanging out. When you were born, I was just in love but I was also scared, as I'm sure most parents are. I didn't know what it would be like to have a second kiddo. But you fit into my arms perfectly and you completed my world. Your 14 months on this Earth weren't perfect. We had struggles but I tried to give you and your sister everything I could. I wish I had the foresight to know what was ahead of us so I could have protected you the way you should have been protected.
We miss you so much, Meatball. Kenzy was writing to you today saying she wished she had you here with her. I know you would have been close because you two were inseparable. She always wanted to show you off and protect you, but as a big 14 year old, I know you would be protecting her now. Please watch over her from Heaven. I could use all the help I can get in these less than fun high school years. Liam loves you too. He's always wondered what it would be like to have you here with him. I know you guys would be running around outside and being boys together. He loves knowing you're there watching out for him too.
Each year that goes by, I feel like the love for you grows. The week leading up to your birthday I got a request for some of the Zachary's Heroes cards. It's been a while since we've received one of them and it was perfect timing. It helps me feel connected to you. Then the very next day I got a sweet card in the mail from a friend and old co-worker of mine. It was a sweet surprise to let me know that she was thinking of us as your birthday approached. More people reached out through FaceBook, texts and phone calls. To honor you dozens of people changed their profile picture and cover photo to you. This simple kind gesture brings me such happiness. Each year that you're gone, I'm afraid you'll be forgotten, but my friends and family keep reminding me that it won't happen. I am so thankful for them. It's what continues to help me March Forth.
I hope that this year brings us more great things in your honor. I love you dearly and I hope that you're celebrating the most amazing birthday in heaven. We are eating some spaghetti and meatballs and angle food cake this evening. Get it? A meal for you!
I LOVE YOU!
