You were my first-born child and the first-born grandchild in the family. When I found out I was pregnant with you, I felt a joy that moms only feel the first time they find out they are going to be moms. I was eager to tell my parents and your dad's parents. Everyone was so happy and excited with the news. You were "a boy"---that was so awesome. You were born five weeks early, right after Thanksgiving. The minute I had you I knew I was totally in love and knew I was going to do anything I could to make you happy. You were the first child, grandchild and nephew. You grew up having lots of attention. You were a beautiful baby. The years went by fast, and two years later your brother was born. You were a bit jealous because he was taking some of the attention you were used to getting yourself.  You started kindergarten reading and singing your voice away in school recitals. Around your fourth birthday we found out your vision wasn't that great because you were born with congenital cataracts. You went through a few surgeries and treatment and luckily your vision improved. You learned to play the piano beautifully and became very good at swimming. We traveled to Peru often, and everyone was so crazy about you.  In middle school you joined the band, playing the trumpet, and also started to love the social life. Your high school was definitely more socially than academically oriented.  You were pretty popular and loved it.  Later, you went to college and broke my heart for the first time, moving to another city. A week later you called me to tell me you were coming for the weekend. I hated to know you were away and probably texted and called you a lot those four years. I am sure you didn't like it but put up with your crazy, controlling mom. I was always so happy when you were here during the summer. I remember when we both went to Vegas to see shows and gamble. We had a great time. Later, you went back to school to get a degree in Information Technology. Technology was your thing for sure. So many times you have helped me with technology. My son, you had a huge heart, and you loved your family so much. You also loved video games a lot and loved to spend time with Meagan as well.  I so miss the weekends when you would come to play boardgames or poker here. You always cared about your siblings and found time to see them. 

I said when you were born, I knew I wanted to do anything to make you happy. Well, I did try all your life to make you happy and be there for you. I know you knew it. My love and devotion for you was always pretty obvious, and now that I no longer have you, I have no regrets, only a broken heart.

Mom