Celebrating 12 years of Ryan

It was a rainy evening 12 years ago on Sept 9, 1996. I was a Senior in college and anxiously awaiting the birth of my first niece or nephew. In the pouring rain Mom and I drove to Bethlehem praying this little baby would be born healthy and safe. Our little Ry-Ry was born that evening and was the cutest most perfect child I had ever seen. Over the past 12 years, I have watched this sweet, kind little boy who called me "tu-tu" grow into a wonderful young man who is smart and considerate and loving. Even on the worst day I could always look forward to the sound of his little voice as he talked about his sister "doo-doo" or shared some funny story. As the oldest grandchild he has had to blaze his own trail with lots of little ones hanging on his coat tails. He attentively cares for his little cousins who look up to him always eager to be with him and is adored by his parents. The loving relationship he has developed with his sister Courtney is unique--the little old married couple--with their knowing glances and consensus decision making process. Rachel also adores her big brother despite the nicknames he has given her. Together they have quite a little threesome of which their Mom and Dad get to enjoy. Ryan is a 6th grader now and I can still remember holding this little baby thinking he could never be the oldest grandchild.....he was just the first! Happy Birthday Ry-Ry. We love you so much!