Yes, it's true!  The Ryke-Man will be upgraded to Big Brother status in September 2017!

We are so happy to share this exciting news with you, and couldn't feel more excited to bring another beautiful blessing into this world.  We know God has great plans in store for Baby Steen #2, and Ryker is already proving he will make a GREAT big brother as he constantly reaches for and kisses the baby, growing away in mommy's tummy!

Thank you for your love and support of our growing family!

Early last fall, Ryker's Mimi got him these really cute Ugg boots to wear.  They're the BEST boots for little feet, because they go on easily, no socks are required, and they keep Ryker's feet VERY warm! (Thank you, Mimi!)

At the time, I thought to myself, "Even though these boots are somewhat expensive for a little guy, he is not walking yet so we will be able to keep them in really good condition and use them for the next little Steen, whenever that time may come."

What I didn't realize, however, was how much I was underestimating Ryker James Steen!  What I didn't realize, was that THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR WALKIN'!

You see, a few weeks ago, after going on a walk with Ryker outside around our neighborhood, I was taking off his jacket and boots and noticed that his pristine little Uggs were torn, ripped, and completely worn out.  There is a hole in both toes, a hole in both heels, and the bottoms are darkened from wear.  My first thought was, "Awe man! They're ruined!" But the negative context of that thought quickly turned to excitement, "They're ruined!"  Do you know what this means?? This means Ryker has been up on his feet SO much, walking (and even running!) SO fast in his gait trainer, that he has actually worn holes in his little shoes.  This, folks, is one awesome accomplishment!  And this got me to thinking...

As parents, how often do we get upset with our kids for muddying their shoes, getting paint on their clothes, ripping their jeans, scratching their new bike, or ruining something? Now I get it, sometimes we should be upset about our kids ruining some things (my sister and brother-in-law have become pros at removing permanent marker after my two sweet nieces decided to use a black sharpie to decorate all of the white woodwork in the basement of their brand new house).  BUT, how often do we get upset with our kids -- or upset over a pair of ruined shoes -- just because our kids are being KIDS?  Do you know how many parents are out there that would LOVE to have their child scuff up shoes, or splash in the mud, or even cut their hair (which is a great fine motor skill!)?

This is a new mindset for me, and perhaps a new mindset for many, but I will do my best to celebrate every scuffed up shoe, muddied outfit, torn pair of pants, broken window (because I anticipate Ryker will be playing a LOT of baseball in our backyard) and ruined item that results from Ryker being a wild, rambunctious, active little boy.  These times, while I'm sure they can (and will) be stressful, are here for just a fleeting moment in life and they should be celebrated!

So, long live boyhood.  Long live CHILDHOOD.  And long live Ryker's little Ugg boots...which will continue to be worn, re-sewn, and cherished as a reminder of how grateful we are for every little step he takes.