Belated

I realized with shock and dismay yesterday after I hit publish, that I had omitted a very important joy of the day. So today, it's all about #16 (not the one I hinted at yesterday, that will have to be later).

Seven years ago, I met this incredible guy.

He is Josiah Israel, and he is my 2nd of 8 nephews. As most nephews are, he is one of a kind. My sister found out she was pregnant only a few weeks after her husband deployed to Iraq. At the time, the Army was only deploying people for 6 months, so we all expected he'd be back in time for the birth. Not so.

They extended his deployment to a year, but he was able to work out his mid-tour break to be when Josiah was due. I took 3 weeks of leave at the same time, so I could go help out with my sister's first born, Judah.

Judah's first snowman, Dec 2003

Those 3 weeks were some of the most precious times with these little guys. I mean, I love love love all my nie-neps, but Josiah was the only one for whom I was in town for his birth. I don't know if I should, but I have a special bond with him, and I'm very proud of him.

From almost the minute he was born, he looked around, saw his older brother and was determined to catch up. He was such a serious looking baby, we were all so relieved when he started to smile! He started walking at 8 months, taught himself to read at age 4 and now in 1st grade he is very bored (but a great student, nonetheless)! He has a great sense of humor, is a chess master and loves to dance (robot style)!

Teaching Uncle John how to play chess

 I have enjoyed many special moments with Josiah in the past 7 years. This summer he made his 3rd trip to visit me in D.C. (the first was in-utero, which he says he remembers. The second was 2 years ago, which I know he remembers!) Part of me can't wait to see what he grows up to be. Last time I asked him, his top three choices for what he wants to be when he grows up were: 1) a chef 2) a sidekick 3) a karate (his words).

But then part of me doesn't want him to get any older. I want to freeze him in time for his innocence, curiosity and sincerity.

I guess if he does have to get older, my hope is that he stays the strong and sensitive, sweet and silly, loyal brother and cousin, doting nephew and grandson, independent, talented and perfect Josiah that he is today.

Happy Birthday, one day late, buddy. I love you!