02/28/2010 Today, Dominic turns 16, and I couldn't be more proud of the young man he has become. He truly amazes me with how much he has grown since I've known him. He was just about to turn 10 when his first mom passed away. Can you imagine how it felt for him? His mom was everything to him and then she was gone and before too long, he had to make room in his life for me. How could this other woman love him like his mom did? Well certainly, I never replaced her. I will never be his first mom. But I believe that God carved this family in the palm of His hand. Dominic did make room in his heart for me. He is one of the joys of my life, my son. I can't imagine life without his shining sense of humor and his incredible compassion. Not a day goes by that Dominic doesn't find a way to make me laugh or make my eyes well up with the warmth of knowing that the world is a kinder place with him in it. He is simply amazing. Dominic, I don't know exactly what God has in store for you in this life. But I know that He will always walk with you. And as long as I am here in this world, I will always be overjoyed to call you my son. Happy birthday, Son. May your heart always remain gentle and kind. I love you.