85/365

A year ago, my friend Kristen had her second baby. Due to a nightmare's list of complications, Kristen died twice in the process of delivering that baby. Literally. I'm not talking about the "I thought I was going to die" stuff women say. I'm here to tell you that she literally and physically flatlined twice. I won't go into too many details because a) they're private and b) I'd probably mess them up anyway. But, the truth is this. Kristen was basically brought back to life the day her daughter was born. And it is one of the most remarkable stories I've ever heard.

Today Regan turned one. And as I watched her blow out the candles with her mommy and open presents with her mommy and dive headfirst into a cake with her mommy standing by, I couldn't help but get a little choked up. I said a silent prayer thanking God that that little girl wasn't celebrating her 1st birthday without her wonderful mom. And then I said a silent prayer thanking God for my mom. I wonder if Regan will ever really comprehend what her mom went through to bring her into this world. They are both miracles to me. And I can't help but wonder if I will ever comprehend what my mother has done for me in my life. From day one to today, she is in so many ways, my miracle. I know that's cheesy, but if you know our story, you'll understand that we almost weren't in each others lives either. (but that's another day...)

So here's to Kristen and Regan. And here's to a God who works miracles. Everyday.