There are a lot of surprises that come along with having you in our lives. There are feelings I never expected and challenges and changes that come about. One of the surprises of having you in our lives has been the new, different and growing relationships that have come due to your birth. Whether it be with friends or family, relationships have changed due to your presence. My good friend, Kara, told me that when she had her son she felt her baby brought family members together and that babes breathe "love and life into families." I have seen this happen with our family as soon as you were born. It was as if we all had a bit of a new beginning. It makes me feel happy to see how happy you make your grandma and grandpa. You are their first grandchild and it is such a special relationship. There is such a bond and love already and I can't wait to see how your bond grows over time. I look forward to grandma making cookies and playing games with you and grandpa teaching you how to catch a fly ball or ride the lawnmower like they did for me growing up. I remember the love I felt for my Grambo growing up, as she was my only surviving grandparent, and I hope you have the bond and love with your 4 grandparents as you grow. You are blessed to have such great examples in your life.
You enjoyed your first vacation at Snyder Beach this past month. You got to take 'road trips' with Grandpa, had your first dip in Lake Erie, had many conversations and snuggles with Grandma and finally met Great Grambo for the first time. You got to meet some of mom and dad's friends from high school and our extended family in Silver Creek. You seemed at peace by the lake, had longer naps, and I have a feeling you will love your summer visits to Snyder Beach for quite some time. I know it is my favorite place, both because of the atmosphere and the memories. Maybe it will be one of yours too.
Love you MJS.
