Happy 1st Birthday, Ryder!

One year ago, we welcomed this precious little boy into our lives...

Ryder Richard
May 12, 2008
1:56pm
7lbs 11oz 20 inches long

As a full year has passed (okay, more like flown by) Ryder has brought so much life, joy, and laughter into our lives.

He is a little thinker...

At one week old I could not help but wonder what he was so deep in thought about. Even in those first few weeks Ryder was so alert, wide awake, and taking in the world around him. Today, I love the intense look he gets on his face when he is deep in thought. He tends to be one step ahead and always thinking about what is coming up next. He keeps us on our toes!

He loves his da...

Oh, how this little guy loves his "da". As an infant he took his best naps on daddy or in bed with daddy. Today, Ryder's face lights up when Eric returns home from work. He is lost when his beloved "da" is gone...aimlessly walking around looking for him and asking for him. Simply put...this little boy loves his daddy.

He goes with the flow...
Sure, I remember life prior to Ryder. However, it is so much sweeter with him in it. The day we brought him home he just fit into our family...he was meant to be here. It was barely an adjustment going from two to three kiddos. Ryder has always been content to be a part of the action. He is happiest when amidst the chaos that is our life. He is happy to take a quick shower with mommy (for the sake of time)...even at a month old.

He is the baby of the family...

Often, I cannot believe the things I find myself doing (or not doing) with the baby of our family. He totes a bottle around with him...taking a sip here and there (something our older two boys never did). Am I thrilled with this? No, not really. However, about two months ago he began getting down off our laps mid-feeding and there was no stopping him. At one year of age he is still in our room. Yes, the lack of remodeling a bedroom (or two) is delaying Ryder's move into his own room. Secretly, I am somewhat okay with that. Indeed, he does still wake up in the middle of the night for a bottle (or two) and we happily oblige. Does he truly need it? No, it's habit. Eric and I are both guilty of playing a quick game of peek-a-boo with Ryder following his middle of the night feedings. Time seems to be just driving right by us...so we indulge in the little moments (no matter what time it is).

He is a flirt...
This little grin says it all...he likes to flirt. He likes the ladies who cast a glance his way in the grocery store and smile at him. He smiles back, tosses in a little wave, and perhaps a raspberry or two. I say work what your mama gave you little guy;)

He adores his big brothers...

There is no denying it...Ryder ADORES his big brothers. I love in the above photo how he is touching both of them. When he started smiling the biggest smiles were reserved for Parker and Garrett. When they take the opportunity to sing to him, talk to him, play peek-a-boo with him, or tickle him he basks in their attention. When they run circles around the living room/dining room, rev their engines, and pretend to be on dirt bikes he joins right in. His little legs may not keep right up to speed, but he is always in on the fun!

He is our little frog...
A cute one, too! Around five months he mastered this little stance. In time his stance became an all out hop. Love it! Love him!

He is beautiful...
Let's face it...this little guy of ours is beautiful. With his big eyes, one dimple, and smile he is going to break some hearts. Am I biased? Certainly. Would I feel the same if I wasn't lucky enough to be his mommy? You bet!

He is happy...

Yes, Ryder is one happy little guy. He loves life and what it has to offer. He smiles often and smiles BIG! Uncle Jerry insists it is the cheesiest smile he has witnessed. Keep on smiling sweet boy and continue to take pleasure in the small things...walks, balloons, and goldfish crackers make the world a better place;)

He is strong...
OK, this photo may be a slight exaggeration of Ryder hanging from the monkey bars, but he is strong! I said it time and time again when I was pregnant with him, "This little guy is going to come out doing kart wheels!". Within an hour of being delivered (while laying on his stomach before he was taken to NICU) he lifted his head up and began peering around. He amazes us on a daily basis with his physical strength. He was quick to roll over, crawl, stand, and walk. He has signature moves (such as the way he stands up) that some adults are not capable of! Keep on moving, our little monkey (or frog)!


Happy 1st Birthday, sweet Ryder! Through your older brothers I have learned how quickly times passes; therefore, I believe I have a greater appreciation for these last 12 months. You bring joy, laughter, and love to many. I am honored to be your mommy and look forward to what the next year will bring. I love you, sweet boy!!!!