Balloons for Stephen

October 15th would have been my cousin Stephen's first birthday. Precious baby Stephen lived an amazing 44 days- 37 of them at home. Stephen and McKenna were due on the same day, October 23rd of last year. Stephen was born with heart problems that doctors were not able to cure. Jessy and Aaron decided after a week in the hospital that they would take their baby boy home to enjoy his days with his big brother and big sister. Thanks to Blogger we were able to follow Stephen's story. I know many of you also followed as he proved the doctors wrong and lived 44 days!

On Saturday, October 16th the Bowmans along with their family and friends in Idaho had a balloon release and party to celebrate Stephen's first birthday. They asked family and friends around the U.S. to also release balloons to remember him. Danielle had to work so she had to release her balloon at home while I headed out to my parent's to release with my parents and grandparents.

It was a beautiful sunny Saturday afternoon! My dad was in charge of taking pictures... :)

The one balloon was a "dud". The lady at Flowerama couldn't believe it wouldn't float! She was going to put it in the garbage but I asked if I could still have it because I knew McKenna would like it!

The Bowman family has done an absolute amazing job at "remembering Stephen". I can't even begin to imagine what the last year has been like for them. Having a child the exact same age has made their story hit home and really hard. Aaron and Jess we all want to thank you for your strength, courage, and faith. You two are amazing people and I feel lucky to call you family! :)

PS- Just yesterday the Bowman's found out that another little BOY will be joining their family at the end of March!!! We are thrilled to hear that he is healthy! This time around Jessy and Danielle get to enjoy being pregnant at the same time, as they are both due in March! God is good!