Thirteen

In May 1998 I was home from college, applying for a summer job with a local university and awaiting the arrival of my nephew.  My sister was pregnant and she timed it perfectly so I could be home for the birth.

On the evening of May 18th we were put on alert that she was having contractions.  By midnight, my sister and brother-in-law were at the hospital.  The family gathered around as the first grandson/nephew was to arrive. 

It was an electric time.  One of the few nights I remember very vividly.  As we approched morning on May 19th, he made his arrival. 

MJ was the sweetest thing I had ever seen.  I was at my sister's house constantly to visit with him, to love on him and to soak him in before I went back to college.

I've been able to love MJ freely and I couldn't be more proud of him.  From before he could talk, hockey has been his interest.  We would go to games and he would sit and cheer with me.  When he started playing, there's been no stopping him. 

I've traveled to Canada to watch him play.  I've watched his hair go from brown to platinum blonde as his teams have made it to nationals.  I've been excited as he's been recruited by a team in Canada. 

I've watched him mature into an amazing, young man.

MJ,

You brighten a room even before you enter it.  Your heart and your character shine through as I watch you interact with friends, your brothers, your cousins and crazy kids at VBS.  You are a unique blend of coolness and compassion.  I am so blessed to call you nephew.  You brighten my life in ways that I never could have imagined.  You've also puked on me more times than I can remember. 

Happy 13th birthday!  You're almost taller than me, you're definitely blonder than me and you continue to bring a smile to my heart.  I can't wait to see what God has planned for you, not only with your hockey, but with your life.  Your future has endless possibilities, but I know God has destined for you great things because you, MJ, are great.

I love you,
Aunt Kelly