15 years ago I became an aunt for the 4th time in my life. So this should not have been new or exciting for me. But it was. This time was different. This time was special. This time I was getting a nephew. I had 3 beautiful and wonderful nieces. So this nephew business was an entirely different experience.
I will never forget when my first nephew was born. My sister had been walking around dilated to I think 3 for a few weeks. She had went to the hospital and been sent home. So she calls our mom and tells her that her water broke. My mom is in a panic and says we will be right over. My dear sisters quick response was "Wait about 2o minutes I want to do my hair and makeup first." She then yelled at us for taking so long. My mom sped and ran every red light and stop sign that got in her way. She wanted to meet her grandson! This was sometime around 2 -3 in the afternoon. It was a long labor. Around 12 hours later my first nephew was born. Jackson Bailee Rider. He was so little and looked like a mad old man!
He wasn't a baby that liked to be held or rocked. But even at a month old he would get quiet and watch a ball game. Or the Fresh Prince of Bel Air. I guess that was a clue to his personality! He was such a wild and crazy kid! At about 8 months old he jumped out of crib at daycare. He always wanted to work and to help. He would pick up sticks for hours! He was adventurous! He could keep you laughing for hours. He still is and still can.
I have so many stories I could tell you about him. But none of them can show you his mischievous smile, the special twinkle in his eye when he has a great idea or the look of compassion and care that he has when he is concerned about someone he loves.
He has grown into a handsome young man. He is sweet, caring, loving and has a very sensitive heart. He can make you laugh and always will try to take care of the people in his life. Any girl that is lucky enough to date him should treat him with kindness and love because that is the way he will treat her. Besides my sister (and his sister and his aunt!) are slightly nuts and will hunt down anyone that hurts him!
I am so beyond blessed that I have been able to watch him grow into the young man that he has become. I can not wait to see all that life holds for him. I know that it will be as amazing as he is. He is such an amazing kid. I miss him like crazy and I hope that he had a birthday that was as amazing as he is! I love you Cracker Jack!!!
