Today is Sam's NICU buddy Bennett's birthday. Many of you have learned abut Bennett from reading my blog, and I just wanted to take a moment to say what a great day today is. Bennett is a boy who has beaten more odds in his one year of life than most of us will face in our lifetime. But Bennett has done more than just beat the odds.... he is thriving. Bennett is full of charm and personality. He is doing so much now that it makes me smile. That little man melts my heart every time I see him. I am so proud to know Bennett and look forward to celebrating each and every one of his achievements as out boys grow up together.

But it is not just Bennett I am celebrating tonight. Bennett is lucky enough to have Elisa as a mom. Talk about a tower of strength. I met Elisa on my 3rd day in the NICU and can't imagine having survived all of this without her. Elisa is a rock star. She has earned this title, my respect and my love.

So, all of you out there, raise a glass in honor of Elisa and Bennett. They have traveled a long road to get to this momentous occasion and they have earned this moment of pride and love.

Stolen from Elisa's Facebook ... this is Elisa and Bennett today revisiting the OR where they first met.