The last few years have been filled with stories of adventure, movement, and travel. But every so often, something even more special happens. Best friends get married, people buy their first homes, and new additions are made to families. While all of these have happened since the start of summer, one that stands above the rest is this little guy.
Owen Michael Wright
Born July 19, 2013
My only sibling, Stephanie, is now a proud mother of two. She is two years older than me, the same age difference between Owen and his sister Libby. Stephanie married my childhood best friend, Greg, in an ever-so-dramatic few years that involved him transitioning from “the friend who stayed the night for 5 days straight” to “the guy who was stealing dad’s only daughter that could no longer stay overnight”. In hindsight, there’s no better person to marry your sister than your best friend, so it’s been awesome to watch their family grow one at a time into the beautiful display of love that it is.
My family often recalls the home videos that showcase Steph in her 4-5 year old big sister prime. There’ s one Christmas video that includes the phrase “It’s just what I always wanted!” at least 15 times in under an hour. My favorite moment that I never let her live down is watching her take command of my presents, including a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles toothbrush that my mom noted to have two brush heads so that I could share with my sister. We’ve got plenty of fun stories from our childhood- I remember playing in the backyard with her on summer afternoons, being a part of high school musicals at the same time, and graduating from the same university after both of us going through the post-secondary program. I know with certainty that my niece and nephew are going to have some of these same experiences; they’ve got great parents just like Steph and I had. I’m just hoping Owen doesn’t end up with a broken wrist like I did. (Thanks Steph!)
Last week, as we brought Owen home from the hospital for the first time, I wanted to be the first to show him his new room. Stephanie had spent hours decorating the nursery, which includes a neat tribute to travel and adventure, with a handmade banner that reads “Explore” above the changing station. A natural wood clipboard holds a few vintage photos that I brought home from Switzerland. As I carried Owen into his room, I started praying over his adventures and asking for opportunities to show he and Libby the world. It’s a blessing that I wish I could make upon every child; the chance to see, to explore, and to connect with people and places that many couldn’t even imagine.
I didn’t have an annual bucket list item that involved a new family member, but this is one I’ll certainly add to the life list of amazing moments. I’ve now got a niece and nephew that are sure to be spoiled, sugared-up, and loved on by their uncle. Congratulations Steph, Greg, and Libby: here’s to the many adventures to come that we can cherish as a family.
To Owen:
May your life be filled with adventures to stir your soul, dreams that are bound to come true, an imagination that is ready to soar, and a family that is present to encourage and love you.
