Happy Birthday, Cal-i-o!

*and three (soon-to-be-four) freaking awesome

granddaughters too! 

Two years ago, I sat on the beach alone on the afternoon of July 5.  Margaret was up at Suzanne's home, helping Suz get ready for the birth of her second child, Callum, whose arrival was believed to be approximately two weeks away, while also maintaining contact with Rob as he and Jess awaited the arrival of their first child, Abigail, whose arrival was more than two weeks overdue. 

At low tide, I moved my chair down to the waterline. I then fell asleep.  I have no specific memory of falling asleep but I know I did. I know because my eyes opened to my cell phone ringing (fun fact, my ringtone is the CU Fight Song). I answered it to the sound of Margaret's voice telling me that Suzanne's water had broken and the two of them were heading from Suz's home to Overlook Hospital.  It was slightly after 5:00 pm.  I told her that I would take a quick shower, close up the house, and meet them there. 

Less than forty minutes later, as I traveled at a brisk pace north on the Garden State Parkway, Margaret called me back.  I no longer needed to hurry to the hospital.  Callum had arrived.  Two weeks early - just as his big sister Maggie had done. 

Today, my only grandson is two years old.  Already.  

Every time I see him, he greets me with a smile and his great, throaty "Pop Pop".  I cannot help but smile looking at his face.  

Happy Birthday, Cal-i-o!  

-AK