Twenty-nine years ago today still stands out in my mind. I didn't go to school that day. I was allowed to stay home to await the news. This was long before cell phones were a common possession in our lives. I don't remember the exact time, but I do recall the phone ringing with the news. A new member of our family made his arrival - Baby Anthony. The title I held for almost sixteen years had been passed to someone else. "The baby of the family" was no longer me, it was my nephew. I was pretty excited about his arrival. I think I can say all of the family felt this way. I didn't see him in the hospital. Tony brought Paula and Anthony to Mom's house when they were released from the hospital. I thought he looked small. I know he weighed almost nine pounds when he was born, and many women would say that is NOT a small baby. What did I know? Judging by the size of Paula's belly, I thought he would have been bigger. I guess I didn't know much. One thing I did know - I had a new nephew and I was a new uncle and that was cool. I was pretty nervous the first time I held Anthony. I don't recall all the thoughts going through my mind, but I remember thinking one day he'll be a grown man.
I looked at my nephew and smiled. Those are great memories. Here we are twenty-nine years later and he is a fully grown man. I am proud of the man he became. May there be much peace and an abundance of blessings as you turn another year better. 
Happy Birthday Anthony!
