5 yrs ago, in Oceanside, California, at 4:55 p.m. Ryan Anthony Alger was born. He weighed 8 lbs 2 oz and was 20 1/4 inches long. We were waiting for him for weeks (12 days to be exact).
Dear Ryan,
Happy birthday! You are so ‘acited’ to be 5. You have been looking forward to this for a long time. I on the other hand, wouldn’t mind freezing time for a while and hanging out with my little boys for a bit longer. These five years seem to have gone in the blink of an eye. A few years ago you couldn’t talk, and now you say things that astound us! You are a leader at school and your teachers cannot stop saying great things about you.
You are smart, funny, sassy, and inquisitive. You are a “what if” kind of kid and worry too much. In the last year you have grown closer to our dogs, Nikki and Shelby, and treat them so nicely. You pet them, say goodbye to them, and always check on them. I’m sure you can’t believe that a few years ago you were constantly getting into trouble for being mean to them.
You love cartoons and playing Wii. You also love anything to do with fighting. You have guns and swords and are always making up games. You can play with action figures at the dining table for hours. You still love matchbox cars and transformers. And, just like when you were much younger, you still have to bring toys in the car with you. That is something Luke has copied. My car is like a giant toy box!
You also enjoy spending time at Grandma and Papa’s house and going to GG’s house. You get spoiled with cartoons, candy and toys but its ok. We’re glad it makes you happy, and we know you need some time away from us. Auntie Lisa takes you to soccer once a week and you are really good.
You and I are probably more similar than I realize and that is why we are constantly butting heads and having issues. Underneath the sass you are a sweet, caring boy who just wants to play:)
Today, Auntie J and Auntie D called from New York just to say happy birthday to you while they are on vacation. Uncle Eddie called, Aunt Lisa stopped by on her way to work, and friends and family left you emails and messages on Facebook. You are a popular guy!
I can count on one hand the amount of time I have been apart from you for an extended period of time. I have been around for almost every breath of your life and I love that. I wouldn’t have it any other way. You changed my life in the most profound way. You teach me everyday.
I love you all the days,
Love Mom
Our Knight in shining armor
p.s. I stole this from Gail’s email because she had the best picture of him in his costume 🙂 we haven’t downloaded our pics yet. sue me.