Today, my grandson, Ethan Arthur Betty, is one year old. I am in Texas at the moment but am returning tomorrow, so I’ll get to see the little birthday boy tomorrow evening.

I would think that little Ethan was adorable even if he weren’t my grandson. He has big blue eyes, curly blond hair, a happy disposition, and a quick grin. He’s also tuned into what’s happening around him and can speed crawl with the best of them. He is about two minutes from standing up and running, which should add another wild and crazy dimension to his character, not to mention additional running and chasing for his already fatigued parents.

I have had the wonderful gift of being present for each of my grandchildren’s births (well, Nico was delivered in an emergency C-section, but I was there until just before and then shortly after). Seeing these little sweethearts as they arrived into the world has been a profound privilege, and I am grateful that my daughters felt comfortable with my presence. Little Ethan was born shortly after midnight on December 14, 2022, and he was happy to be snuggled with and cuddled by his two adoring parents. I held him for a short time too and was surprised at just how small a newborn is. It had been 31 years since my last baby was born, after all.

Ray and I are madly in love with little Ethan. Of course, we are also madly in love with our other three grandkids. Kids and grandkids clearly demonstrate the exponential power of love. The more you have, the more love you have for them. It’s an extraordinary and wonderful phenomenon.

Happy Birthday, Ethan. Here’s to a wonderful upcoming year. I am hopeful I’ll get to watch you accomplish those toddler milestones. I’m also very happy I’ll get to hug and kiss you all along the way.

Here are some photos of Ethan over the year.

With Mommy

With Mommy and Daddy

With Grandma Cindy

With Auntie Rachael

With Grandpa

With Mommy and Daddy

With Grandma Len

With Luna, Nico, and Lyla

With Grandpa

With Auntie Sarah

First Thing This Morning on his birthday