Ryan is 19!

Today is Ryan's day.  Finally!  Patrick had his day and Meghan had her day. And, now, it's Ryan's turn.

I know it sounds cliche, but it really does seem like yesterday, Ryan, that you entered the world as quiet as a church mouse!  The nurses and the doctor kept trying to make you cry and I was so upset asking them to leave you alone!  You haven't changed since you were born.  You have always had a quiet, reserved nature.  That doesn't mean you weren't a typical child and a typical teenager - you definitely had your moments.  But, for the most part, you were the one to stand back and observe, take things in stride.  From an early age, you knew what was worth getting upset about and when it was best to let it go.  I think God made you this way because he knew you would need that quiet strength to get you through some really tough times.  And, that strength that served you so well when you were little, has also served you well into your young adult life.  If you let it, it will serve you well in your future.

Ryan, your future is full of opportunities. The greatest success is being able to recognize these opportunities and be willing to take advantage of them.  The story that is your life is well underway.  Be to sure to write each chapter well and to fully develop your characters!

We love you, our little jumping frog, Yibbit!  My little girl is a young woman, but these are the faces that stay in my mind every day!