I can't believe it...

My FIRST baby is a TEENAGER. How did that happen? It seems like it was just a few years ago that at this moment, I was about halfway through a 27 hour labor. I was excited, scared, tired and couldn't wait to meet the little munchkin I'd felt fluttering around for so long. Finally, at 12:09 pm he arrived...induced 3 weeks early...weighing in at 6 lbs, 13 ounces (WAY smaller than my other two!) and 21 inches long. He was healthy and screaming and we went home a couple of days later.

As a first-time mom, I remember the early days as being...well...not easy. I was amazed at how little I knew about taking care of a baby. Of course, little Tyler and I figured things out and by the time he was a couple of months old, he was a happy, smiley little fellow. He fought many ear infections during the first two years, but has been perfectly healthy ever since.

Over the years (that have flown by like minutes) he has always been a smart, precocious, caring little boy. Once, at about age 6, he was in the room with Nana as she was watching an episode of Oprah about saving money and when the show was over he told Nana he thought maybe he should open an IRA. As early as second grade, he started asking what he could do to get a scholarship to college.

At age 10, Tyler became a big brother, something he'd been wanting to be for a number of years. From the beginning, he's been so sweet to his siblings. They really look up to him and even Noah asks "Where TyTy?" when he's at school or not around. Both of the little ones feel so special when they get play time with Tyler. It warms my heart to watch them.

Over the years, we've gone from little people, to Pokemon, to skateboarding and soccer to now phones, ipods, and computers. Yes, interests have changed and Tyler has grown into a fine young man (who now stands just 3 inches shorter than me).

On this very special day, I wanted to say...Tyler, I love you. Thank you for being such a great son. I am so proud of you and pray that as you enter your teenage years, you will always remember who you are. Sometimes it may be difficult to make the right choices, but you are a strong young man and your heart is in the right place. I know you're going to do great! Happy Birthday!

Love,
Mom