Remembering Kenny on his 37th Birthday

Today is my son's birthday. He would have been 37 years old.

It's one of those days where remembering him is both joyful and sad.

I have been thinking about the day he was born. How my contractions started in the early hours of October 10, 1980. 

I remember that we had to go by the place where your Dad worked to cash a check because we didn't have enough gas in our car to get to the hospital. 

I remember hitting every red light on the way there. 

I remember Sr. Mary Kay, our midwife and a Catholic nun, putting you in my arms and telling us we had son.

I remember counting your fingers and toes.

I remember the little boy who was always quick to smile and laugh.

I remember the moody teenager.

I remember the good and the bad times.

I know that you were working hard to put the bad behind you and looking to the future.

Happy Birthday, Kenny! I love and miss you every day.

Kenny's birthday celebration, c. 1987. Personal photograph of Dawn M. Kogutkiewicz

Double the Joy with Twin Boys!

 

Congratulations to my cousin Jackie and her husband Luke on the birth of their twin sons, Milo and Mika! Congratulations to my cousin Mike and his wife Kristy, Milo and Mika are their first grandchildren. Also, congratulations to my Aunt Barbara and Uncle Kenny because Milo and Mika are their 16th and 17th great grandchildren!

Dear Milo and Mika,

Welcome to the world precious little boys!

I hope you have eyes that are filled with wonder.

I hope you are as mischievous as all little boys can be. 

I hope your laughs are big belly laughs.

I hope your hearts are full of grace.

I hope you will always be each other's best friend.

I hope you will be reach for the stars and the moon and everything this world has to offer.

Most of all I hope you know just how much you are loved little ones!

Love,

Dawn