Happy belated Heart Transplanniversary

October 6 will always be a special day in our family.  It's weird to say that we celebrate on that day because although I feel that we should be happy for the blessing that we received on that day, I can't help but think of the grieving that Rylynn's donor family will do each year on that day more than most.  I just wish I could tell them how special their gift is and how deeply, deeply thankful we are.
This year we spent the day with just our parents and Rylynn's aunts and cousins.  We had dinner, let the kids play and just enjoyed our time together. 
My dear childhood friend's sister also gave us a wonderful gift this year.  She came to Lampasas and took family pictures for us.  You may remember that Cheri also came to Waco in March of 2011 to take our family photos too.  It was the most wonderful gift because Ry got very sick just weeks later and we were so thankful to have a set of beautiful pictures of her to remember her happy, beautiful smile.  Just after Ry's transplant, Cheri once again offered a session for us.  Because of one reason or another, it didn't happen until October, but it couldn't have been more perfect.  She brought her trusty assistant (and the birthday girl) Cheryl along and it was a great time.  Ry enjoyed seeing them and actually cooperated with lots of smiles.  Thanks girls, this was the best gift ever!  Here are a few pictures of our family from the professionals and that evening after dinner.

We wouldn't have made it through without the love and support of our family, we love them all so much!

And if you're interested, check out Cheri's work here.  She's so talented.
CThompson Photography