Douglas

Thirteen years ago on May 23, 1999, we became parents to 7 1/2 pounds of perfection.  Our son had little pearly pink lips that were just so kissable.  His head was covered with soft, dark fuzz that felt like a soft downy pillow against my cheek.  He made all the precious newborn noises as he yawned and stretched.  I don't think either of us will ever forget holding him in our arms for the first time.

As we looked down at this precious bundle in our arms our hearts felt like they were going to explode right out of our chests.  So began our parenting journey. 

He was the only one of our children born on his due date.  And this is remarkable considering that the other two of our biological children were born 2 and 3 months early.

We are still amazed by our oldest son.  He is such a good big brother!  He is very patient and gentle, especially with Eliana.  We went to a park recently, and instead of tearing around with the other two boys playing tag, he spent the whole time we were there taking care of Eliana, making sure she was having fun and keeping her safe.  When we called them to come to the van, he picked her up and carried her with a big smile on his face.  It was obvious that he actually had enjoyed his time with her!

This year we got him a Kindle for his birthday.  He was pretty tickled since he  really isn't on the computer and doesn't play electronic games...and he loves to read!

We also each wrote some things we love about him on little slips of paper.  We put the little slips of paper in balloons and blew up the balloons...13 of them in all.  He had to pop the balloons to read the slips of paper.  We had everything from "I love how gentle you are with the little children" from Daddy to "I like that you are nice to me sometimes" from Casper to "I like that you let me help you milk the goat" from Annika.  The girls laughed hilariously every time he popped a balloon.  It was really fun!

As our first child, Douglas broke us in as parents. Thirteen years and 4 siblings later he is still breaking us in.  We kind of pity him sometimes.  As each new stage comes along, as parents we try to figure it out, and who has to take up the slack when we mess up?  Our dear eldest son!

We love you Douglas!