What a year...

A year ago today was one of the saddest days of my life and my families lives. We lost my step-dad Steve after a short, but very hard illness. We have been through so much in this year. I remember going to my Mom's house and praying that I wouldn't go into labor. Now, I have a bouncing little boy who is walking, but am also missing 2 of the best guys I knew. My grandpa Clynn also died the night before Ryker was born (November 4th). Here's what I remember about these 2 great men:

Steve
You were always smiling. Hunting was your thing (you would be proud- Dustin's trying to get his BBD *big buck down*) We think about you a lot when Dustin uses your elk call to get Ryker excited, or when he puts on your camo.
I remember that you told me I have a lot of dads and that you will always be there for me and it is true, but I miss you a lot and wish you were here. You sent me Ryker and I see a lot of you in him (mesmerized by those elk and loves the outdoors!)
We spent a lot of time together in the months before you passed. You were so so positive and give me so much inspiration to get through my trials. I walked into the specialty hospital for the first time last week- where we spent lots of time and where we got the news. I thought it would be hard, and it was, but I was comforted knowing that you aren't in pain anymore and that you did meet Ryker.
Thanks for being a great dad to me and for always being such a fun, loving person. Miss you and love you lots!

Grandpa Clynn
I remember the first time I layed eyes on you...what a sad day but you made me so comfortable (little back story- I met him at my Dad's funeral and had never met that part of my family before). Your love for me was always there, even though I wasn't there.
You were also such a fun person. I loved d the time we spent talking. You made me feel so welcome into the family and I never once doubted that you loved me. You also were a great example of strength in hard times.
Although I only got to know you for a short while, I really love you. You overnighted Ryker straight to us and I can just see you smiling as you sent me this fun, crazy boy and said "good luck! He's going to be a fun little handful!" Love you and miss you!

Since I couldn't let myself end this post while crying- I thought I would give some happy news.
RYKER IS WALKING! Yay horray! He is so brave and stands up and takes 4-5 steps, falls down and right back up he gets! He has also taken a liking to bringing me things. This morning it was graham crackers that he wanted opened and this afternoon- every book he owns. He also has become even more lovey and gives big open mouth kisses that leave me with slobber all over and a big grin on my face. Thanks Steve and Grandpa Clynn for sending me my fun little guy!

Remembering Grandpa

Hey everyone,
I have been meaning to post this for a long time but I just barely got the time. The night before Ryker was born (Nov. 4th) my sweet grandpa Clynn passed away. He is my dad's dad and just came into my life 2 years ago. I didn't know any of my father's family until his passing 2 years ago and then I met my grandparents and half-sister Amanda. They are all the best people that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.
Grandpa was a jokester and he always was upbeat. He has been sick for a while but still remained active with all of us. He was so fun and always would give the best compliments. I was his "pal" and he was a blessing in my life.
I know he went up and sent Ryker on a "rush delivery". I told him the night he passed that he better take care of my little one but send him quick (I was already having contractions.)
His funeral was amazing. He had planned it with my grandma and boy did it turn out perfect. The family all sang "As I have Loved You" at the end and it really is the perfect song for such an awesome guy.
So sad to see a great man like this go but I know he is up there with my dad and many others that have passed on. So glad he got to meet my little guy and spend time with him.
"Love ya, bye"-Pal