The Sixth Day of Christmas

Our first family portrait taken December 25, 1999.

Ben takes a look at our newly decorated tree early December 2000.

Our worst Christmas ever occurred December of 2001. My grandmother passed away on the 2nd just a few doors down from Ben's ICU cubicle. On the 17th we were once again told to prepare to say goodbye to Ben. This photo was taken between the 17th and the 25th since he is still hooked to the respirator.

Christmas 2002 was a weird experience for Ben. He was overwhelmed so to speak. He wanted to participate but couldn't figure out how. He therefore "shut down" until he knew he was in a comfortable setting and began to play with toys for the first time.

Christmas 2003 was great for Ben. In the photo he ready to visit Nana's. Although he was not ignored, his motor skills didn't allow him to enjoy the all that was around him. No one thought he was capable of experiencing the joy and fun of the season except Mom, Dad, and Jessie.

Ben was a sick little boy this Christmas (2004). He tried so very hard to be a part of Christmas morning but pneumonia kept him from participating. Me and Ben stayed at home while our family's celebrations continued.

There are no pictures of our Christmas of 2005 other than Jessie opening her presents. Ben should not have been in the hospital due to some jerk substitute doctor's opinion a few days before that led to Ben's hospitalization.

This is Ben on Christmas morning 2006. How can I express my joy and love for this child? There's no way. This is our Christmas card to you. God bless you, everyone!