Tonight, I gave you ice cream.

And I remembered what it was like, to create your bucket list. I didn’t know how long I would have you. And life had only taught me about loss.

So when your complex open heart surgery was scheduled, I made you a bucket list.

You were not even a year old.

I don’t remember all of it. I wanted you to be in your kiddie pool. Experience the ocean. Taste ice cream.

Ice cream. Tonight, you kept opening your mouth for another bite. But every single bite shocked you, because it’s cold. And we don’t do it often.

But tonight, we celebrate. Look at all the firsts you have had – so many more than I would even allow myself to dream about back then.

And now – I dare to dream. And you continue to amaze and exceed all expectations.

It’s a long road ahead, but we journey together. Happy sixth Heartiversary, my warrior.