It's early yet, but at our house the excitement is building rapidly. Phoebe's birthday is only nine days away.

For her it's a huge deal. In only nine days she will be as old as all her classmates in her grade one class. Because her birthday is so late in the year everyone in her class has already turned SIX. Phoebe has desperately wanted to be six for a long, long time.

As grampa, I'm excited for her, but not nearly as eager to see her grow up. Only two quick blinks ago it seems, I held her in my arms for the very first time. Although I was certainly ready for a grandchild, I had no idea how much this little girl would affect me. In the last six years she has taught me so much about the important things in life - like taking time to pretend, smell the flowers or go on an exciting adventure. Phoebe has taught me the importance of group hugs, laughing, horsey rides and a thousand other things. We have spent countless hours together. I treasure every single minute of that time.

It's hard to believe it's already been six years. While I love those memories I also look forward to the next six years, and the six after that, and the six after that... One thing I am certain of - it will be the most wonderful adventure.

-grampa dan