24

February 16, 2014

Dear Caleb Matthew,

24 years ago today – at 2:34 p.m. – you were born.

I was almost 22 years old when you were born so even though you are my first cousin, I have always felt more like your aunt than your cousin.

I was single and only living 1 mile away from you so I was with you so much of the time.  You even had your own room at my house.  For over 9 years – until we moved away – you were part of my daily life.  You, my Caleb, were so much of my world.

When Rob and Crystol joined our world, you went right along with it.  In fact, “Daddy Rob” was what you called Rob much of the time because you heard Crystol calling him Daddy and me calling him Rob.

You even “walked like an Egyptian” with them.

You were with us so much that Anna thought you were her brother and you loved her like a sister.  And when we had to move away for Rob’s ministry, she cried because we were leaving her brother behind. 

In short, my Caleb, you are one of mine.  

You brightened my every day when you were little.

You were there, as our ring bearer, when I became Rob’s wife.

You were at the hospital when I became a mother for the first time.

You were there at the hospital when my Rob was dying.

And you were there helping carry him to his grave.

Thank you.

There is a bond between us, my Caleb, that was formed in your infancy that stands in my heart and mind for all time.  No matter how far apart we live, no matter how often I see you, no matter how long it’s been since we’ve talked and no matter how old you become, that bond is still unbroken.

I am always here for you.

You are one of mine.

And always remember, that will never change.

You are one of mine.

Happy Birthday, Caleb Matthew!

I love you!

Always have, always will!

Love,  

Janna