Six years ago tonight, I was in the final stages of wedding planning – and my best friend Stacy was in the final stages of giving birth. Poor Stacy had, unfortunately, not been able to be in the wedding party because of her due date, which was supposed to be 2 days after the big day – but she did more than her share of helping with the showers, the bachelorette weekend, and the endless planning. She had been a shoulder to cry on, a voice of reason, and my sounding board for the entire engagement – while planning to give birth to her 2nd child. That baby must have been on wedding overdose because he came 5 days early, just in time to be present at the wedding. Yes, folks, my wonderful “sister” Stacy came to a wedding 3 days after giving birth – and bringing that wonderful baby with her!
Little did I know how much that baby boy would come to mean to me. I was asked to be his godmother and proudly I can state that I have been there for pretty much every major event in his young life. I am “Aunt Becky” to he and his sister and I can’t imagine a day without news from their house. That wonderful baby boy, Bryce, is truly the light of my life!
Sadly, he adored his Uncle Daryl (the asshat ex) and is still somewhat baffled as to why he isn’t part of our lives anymore. But, when he ran into Daryl and the mistress at the ball park this past summer, I am told he didn’t care about the hurts or the absences – he ran up to him for a hug and immediately started catching up. Truly a life lesson I should pay attention – people you love are important, no matter what.
I have watched my Bryce grow from an infant who we could cuddle and cart around with us to an independent 2- and 3-year old who wanted to do everything for himself. Now he is 6 years old and off to school every day – learning his alphabet, numbers, counting, and all those other fun things that kindegarteners do. It has been quite a ride and I am so fully blessed to have been part of that life! From the moment he was born, that boy has meant the world to me!
So here we are 6 years later. While the marriage has shattered and that wedding now seems a distant memory, I still have that wonderful kid in my life! It’s almost worth it, though – Bryce is one hell of a lot better a human being than the ex is! If I could only keep one, I’m glad it’s Bryce!
So, Bryce Andrew, on your 6th birthday, I wish you a VERY happy day! Your Aunt Becky loves you very much and can’t wait for the next wonderful adventure! We’ve come a long way, kiddo, you and I – so glad that I have your little hand to hold in mine and the love for you in my heart! Happy birthday buddy!
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