Mind the gap.

Hudson's cleft is something I think about on a daily basis. Even if I tried not to think about his cleft lip or palate I would fail. I'm always reminded of them. And I like it that way. It's a part of who he is. His baby pictures cover the walls of our house and the space on my phone. His sweet and crooked little smile and nose bring me back to the days of a gap that was once there. And his laughter, oh how I love his laughter! Every chance I get I peek into his tiny mouth to see something extraordinary. Another gap that will soon be gone and two little uvulas that will become one. And I will miss that sight dearly.

It's easy to be reminded of how blessed we are and have been just by looking at the face of Hudson. We could not have asked for an easier babe through it all. He's been a champ and he's kicked all the "can not's" in the face! I can't tell you how happy I am that he was born the way he was born. I have enjoyed it all! There has not been one doubt or regret in my mind. No sad tears have been shed over his cleft. And I thank my Heavenly Father for that. He has given us our strength and our peace of mind. We know it was no mistake that Hudson is ours and that he was born with a cleft lip and palate.

Friday morning at 10AM we will say our goodbyes as the nurses disappear with our son. That part is never easy. But we have faith that he will be well taken care of by his surgeon and the others involved. And I already can't wait to have him back in my arms where he belongs. All in one piece. I have extremely high hopes that he will be awesome through this surgery and recovery just like he was his first one. Curtis and I are constantly praying for the health of Hudson, especially when his surgery date is just days away. He has already gained the pound back that he lost a few weeks ago while he was sick. He's done with his medicine and he's back to eating like an animal! He's been happy and active and has been sleeping great the past few nights. Never underestimate the power of prayer.

Friday they will take away the last thing that has made him different from every other baby. But Curtis told me "NO. He'll always be extraordinary." He's Superman in our eyes. He has and will do amazing things with the life he has been given.