Happy 2nd Birthday, Ryder!

Two years ago, Eric and I welcomed this beautiful little boy into our loving arms...

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

Ryder, it has been an exciting year! Before our eyes you have shifted from baby to toddler. Your personality continues to emerge and my love for you grows each day. At age two...

You are delightful...

Earlier this year, as Parker entered full day Kindergarten and Garrett began preschool, I found myself having more one on one time with you. Together, we enjoyed many breakfasts (my first and your second). We could also be found on the couch cuddling or out on a walk around the neighborhood. On numerous occasions you accompanied your daddy as he ran errands on these mornings as well. You found happiness in these little moments and times of togetherness. I can assure you the feeling was mutual. I am thankful each of us got an opportunity for some quality time with you prior to Hudson's arrival.

You are a lover of God's creatures...

Throughout the year, you have become a fan of all things with fur and/or tails. Our annual trip to the pumpkin patch resulted in you chasing around cats versus choosing a pumpkin. You pursue Mammy's dogs and cats when visiting her house. Aunt Wesilee's kitty, Sis, brings a smile to your face. You spring into the air with great enthusiasm in an attempt to reach the birds above. You have perfected your animal sounds and greet creatures around you in their native tongue. In due time you shall have a pet of your own (or, at least one to share with your siblings); however, right now mommy and daddy know they have little time to care for one of God's creatures.

You are dramatic...

Oh, the drama of it all. You have perfected the art of eye rolling at an early age. You throw your hands up in disgust and have been known to throw yourself to the floor. You can draw out your bottom lip at just the right time. You shield your face with your hands when dealing with the shear horror of being told ''no''. How dare we? You exaggerate the words ''Ewwwww...'' and ''Yuck!'' by pulling your mouth to one side. At times, I cannot help but laugh at your antics. After all, being a toddler does not always have its' perks.

You are mama's mini me...

Big brown eyes. All or nothing. Sweet, yet sassy. Early riser. Wild hair. Tea drinker and lover of all things carbs. High energy. Talkative. Strong and muscular. Head strong. Connoisseur of chocolate. Appreciative. Together, you and I not only share physical traits, but numerous personality traits as well. God may not have blessed me with a daughter; however, my spirit unmistakably lives on within you.

You are entertaining...

Oh, the number of times I find myself laughing at you as we go about our day! Often, I smile as I notice the skip in your step. You find happiness in dressing and undressing yourself again and again. Your ensembles consist of items from each family member...a sock of Hudson's (tightly pulled over half of your toes), underwear compliments of Garrett (hanging off your tush), shorts from Parker (inside out, of course), two fuzzy, striped socks from mama (pulled up to your thighs), and a Schiets Motors shirt that belongs to daddy (it skims the floor as you walk). No outfit is complete without a pair of sunglasses or hat.

Dancing appears to come naturally to you and you are passionate about it. I find you imitating not only the moves displayed by your brothers, but of the stars on Dancing With the Stars and the contestants of So You Think You Can Dance. Keep on dancing, little Ryder!

You are a big brother...

As of February, you are no longer just a little brother. With the birth of Hudson you became a big brother as well. Truthfully, it was not a role I believed you would embrace with ease. It was merely weeks prior to Hudson's arrival that you surrendered your bottle. Again, it had been only weeks prior that you remained in our bedroom throughout the night. The complications surrounding my pregnancy and Hudson's birth brought about numerous changes in our day to day lives. These changes were trying on all of us; however, as the youngest you namely.

Yet, you relinquished your role as baby of the family effortlessly. You happily greet Hudson each morning when he awakes. A big smile consumes your face when you hold him. He has earned the nick name ''Hudsey'' per you. On occasion I have to remind you to ''be gentle with your love for Hudsey"; however, more often than not you are tender towards him. I look forward to watching your relationship with Hudson blossom over the years.

You are beautiful...

Yes, you are a boy; therefore, it may be considered politically incorrect for me to refer to you as beautiful. However, I will concur with those who regard you as beautiful. Your big brown eyes draw in those around you. Your (at times devilish) smile lights up a room. Your lone dimple is absolutely delightful. You have lavish locks that some girls desire (ahem, or dad).

Indeed, your inner beauty matches that found on the outside. When someone draws you in close and rubs your back, you in return do the same. Should someone cry out in pain you rush to their side, offering a hug. You are quick to let me know when Baby Hudsey is crying. I would like to believe it is out of love for you brother, and not that you are simply annoyed. You are joyful and appreciative when someone presents you with a gift, whether it be small or large. Little dude, I hope your inner beauty continues to shine as you grow.


Happy 2nd Birthday, Ryder. My little dude. You have touched my heart in ways you will never know! I love you!!!!

Love, Mama