Exactly one year ago from the posting of this post, Isaac James Towle came screaming into this world… well, maybe not screaming as the following 2 weeks were spent in the NICU helping his lungs get fully developed.  Here’s the post from that day that feels oh, so long ago…

THEN//

Born: May 6, 2009 – 2:38pm
4 lbs. 11 oz.
17.5 Inches

******

Dear Issac,

Dude, you’re not supposed to freak us out this soon.
You’re just 6 hours old yet and we’re stressing over you… I know, you’re just prepping us for what’s to come, but seriously.

There are a lot of people praying for you right now.  Your mom and I are ridiculously excited to finally get to hold you.
Get strong.  We’re looking forward to big hugs.

No matter how long it takes for your little lungs to grow, and trust me they need to, you’re gonna sing just as loud as Daddy some day…
No matter what’s coming down the road…
No matter what… I’m here for you, man.

Don’t ever hesitate…
Don’t ever question it…
Just know I’m always in your corner.

I always will be.

I love you, buddy.

NOW//

*****

Dear Issac,

Dude!
You’re already a year old!  I know it sounds cliche, but it feels like yesterday you were that frail little baby that couldn’t keep his eyes open.
Now you’re this smiley 24 pound freight train that constantly keeps me on my toes!

There are a lot of people still praying for you.  Your mom and I are ridiculously excited to see the kind of boy you’ll turn into.
I can’t wait for the baseball games and the trips to the gas station for donuts and coffee/hot chocolate before we build something just like your grandpa and I did when I was little.  But, right now we’re loving the snuggles and the newly found excitement when you give hugs.

Life isn’t always going to be easy.
But, no matter what’s coming down the road…
No matter what… I’m here for you, buddy.

Don’t ever hesitate…
Don’t ever question it…
Just know:

There is nothing you can ever do to make me love you less.

Happy Birthday, buddy.
Here’s to many more!!!

-DAD