Happy Birthday, Sunshine Boy

Two years ago from this hour, I was in church with my sweet David and 3 children. I was full to overflowing with child and more than anxious to have this babe in my arms rather than in my ribs, back and throat (all you mommies know what I mean ;0). Half way through the missionary farewell (or whatever you call them now), I knew today had to be the day. I breathed my way through the contractions in the meeting, hoping I wasn't a distraction to the speaker standing one row in front of me (we are front bench kind of people). After the meeting, I found my honey (who was forever in the hallway with our rambunctious 16 month old), called my parents to come pick up the kids, grabbed my bags for the hospital (which were ready and waiting) and headed to the park. WHAT? you say. The park, of course. I was done, done, done have my contractions begin and end with no progress in sight and so - just to be sure this was the "real thing" - I walked curbs until my body could handle it no more. When I was convinced this was it, my honey helped me in the car and we headed off to the hospital. Early that evening, our precious Bennett Scott Wilkinson was born at 7 pounds 6 ounces with a full head of blonde hair.

I am grateful I did not know then what I know now. But - if I did - I don't know if I would do much different. Sure, I might take more pictures or capture more of the everyday on video so I could relive his preciousness time and time again. But I would probably also stress, worry and do all in my power to change the Lord's will for our family. But what is to be will be and that is not up to me.

But God is wise and all knowing and He has a perfect plan for our family. For nearly twenty months (19.7, actually), we loved, cuddled, tickled, kissed and adored every last moment with that sweet babe. He was Joy. Pure. Joy. And our family was made so much happier for his presense.

One might question how one human being so young could have such an impact in such a small amount of time. I might too if I hadn't lived the evidence. But our Bennett IS extraordinary. He came with a Gift. A Gift to love and help others feel God's love. He spread Light wherever he went and made the world a better place during his short time here on earth. And - even in his passing - he continues to inspire others to live in the moment, shower love on those you love and live a life of Hope, Light and Joy.

Here are a few pictures of our Memorial Day Celebration. We invited our immediate family to our home for a Brunch in honor of Bennett and then proceeded to the cemetery to let off balloons laden with love notes. It was perfect. Simply perfect.

Thanks to all who attended, visited his grave and help make the day so special for us. Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for our all blessings despite our heartache and loss.

Here's a little video of Ashton singing Bennett's song at his grave yesterday. He kept asking me when we could "bring him home." Man, he misses his brother . . .