March for Babies

After months of planning and fundraising, the day was finally here.

Only, it wasn't what I had planned.

It was the coldest day in April...and raining.

Still, the 2015 March for Babies will always be one to be remembered. This year over $150,000 was raised - a record year! Pete and I were personally able to raise over $25,000 through the support of our family, friends and community.

We were able to educate on the need for more research through sharing Alexander's story on several media outlets. Here was us on Paula Sands Live: http://kwqc.com/2015/04/10/quad-cities-march-for-babies/ and on WQAD: http://wqad.com/tag/alex-stopulos/. These stories meant the world to us and our media friends shared the information with such care. 

Despite the rain, wind and cold, so many friends and co-workers came out to walk - with umbrellas and parkas! My sister was able to walk with me. Even Alexander was able to be there for the presentation (my parents took the kids back to our house due to the weather). 

Alexander was reunited with his bestie from the NICU, Frances. The Mills family joined us for the walk and then came to our house for lunch and afternoon play. It was so much fun seeing those two play side by side, without tubes or monitors. 

The night before the walk, I was emotional. I cried to Pete that this was not what I had envisioned for the year that we chaired the walk. But it ended up being so much more than I could have ever imagined. It was one of THE best days doing something greater for a cause that means so much to us.

Dear Andrew & Alexander,

On this Mother's Day, I want to thank you for some very important lessons you've taught me over the past three years.

1) Patience, patience and more patience. 

You both know how to push my buttons - Andrew by shouting and singing heavy metal at the dinner table and Alexander by throwing his milk over and over at every meal. I mean, how many times can Alexander climb the stairs or can Andrew say, "why... but why?" At least Andrew, you will call me out by saying "Mom, just stop freaking out."

2) A clean, organized house isn't always the best.

Grandma Nana always has kept a VERY clean house. I often get embarrassed when we have company because our house is less than tidy most of the time. I think right now there are toys in every room of our house - even though they are supposed to stay in the toy room! You've taught me that cleaning can take precious time away you. And while I still prefer things to be picked up, I don't waste time worrying about what our house could look like. There will be plenty of time for you to help someday Alexander, since your brother already is a BIG helper!

3) Worrying is fruitless.

This is one lesson I still struggle with, but my experiences with you both help me remember not to worry over the things I can't control. This helps me enjoy our time together in the then and now, instead of worrying what could happen or what's going to happen. How can I worry with your smiles!

4) Words are very meaningful, but so are actions.

Andrew, you've never had any issue expressing yourself. Everyday I'm impressed with your vocabulary and catch phrases. Even today you told me, "nice save Mom," as I prevented Alex from throwing his shoes in the toilet. Alexander, you are a miniature man of very few words right now, but there is nothing better than when you reach up to me to ask for a hug and a cuddle. Someday you will talk just as much as your brother, but you have taught me that showing your love is just as great as telling. 

5) I coudn't love you more. 

I felt the deepest love I have ever known when each of you was born. And that love grows every single day. Not only for you two, but especially for your father. I never knew I could love someone so much as I do him. When he giggles over something you do, or talks about how cute you are, or smothers you in hugs and kisses - each day he expresses his love for you both. Through his expression, my love for him multiplies. You have brought out this great love in us.

6) The happiest moments are unplanned.

Once I became a mother, I learned there were so many things that we couldn't plan - especially with your early arrival Alexander. We had to take each day, even each moment, one at a time and cherish it. This has made me relish the small moments we get to spend together. You've taught me there is nothing better than nosy kisses, craziness at dinner, donut Saturdays, shooting hoops, splashing at bath time, telling stories before bed, forts, long walks in the double stroller, tickling, singing songs... the list goes on and on!

You are the best boys for me and I couldn't love you more! 

Love,

Your Mom

Easter and April 5

Easter has been a very special day for our family for quite some time. 

It was the day I was baptized and confirmed into the Catholic Church. It was the day Andrew came home after spending three days in the NICU. It was also the day that we learned that Alexander would be coming home soon. This year was just as big - the first Easter we were able to spend together as a family.

It was very low key, as the entire Stopulos family and grandparents were down in Kansas City, celebrating my brother in law Steven and his confirmation into the Catholic Church. Pete made an amazing brunch and Jaclyn joined us for food and fun on the patio. Watching the boys play together is such a joy!

Easter this year happened to fall on April 5 - the anniversary of Pete and I being introduced in Iowa City 13 years ago. It seems like only yesterday that we started dating but we've come so far together. It's crazy to think about how much we've been through. I love him more and more each day!

So this Easter we celebrate so much - family, love and Jesus.