Nearly a decade…. I can’t believe it, Ry. It’s been nearly a decade of hugs, kisses, cuddles and sweet, thoughtful conversations with you. Nearly a decade of reading books, exploring the outdoors, answering your questions, going on walks, praying with you, and tucking you in at night.

Being my firstborn… it’s amazing how much I remember about your sweet personality growing up… your likes, dislikes, and little quirks. I remember each major milestone as if it’s permanently etched into my mind. It’s so special being the first… in so many ways. You see, you will always hold such a sacred space in my heart, because you were the child who first made me a mother. The child who taught me patience, and an unfathomable type of love {the most exceptional form}, that which is unconditional.

When you were a baby, you loved looking at books from the earliest age. In fact, when you were only weeks old, you were completely mesmerized by my colorful psychology books placed on the shelves. When you were slightly older, you would wake up and spend several minutes thumbing through board books. If I came in before you were finished, you would get upset… indicating a desire for a few more minutes with your books. It was the sweetest thing! By the age of three, you were doing 100-piece puzzles in a flash! By the age of 4, you told everyone that when you grew up, you were going to be a Paleontologist. You have always loved learning… for the sake of learning! It is so beautiful to bear witness to….

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