Welcome to this crazy old world, Ronni Wren

A tiny, bright light made her way into this crazy old world Friday morning and her name is Ronni Wren.

Ronni becomes the 15th person to join our family since her great-grandfather, and namesake, Ron Kostelnik passed away in 1993. He left a prolific legacy of love and laughter that ripples through generations and from coast to coast.

Ronni’s great-grandpa played in the Ice Bowl and she made her debut in one too. Her mother Tara rose to the occasion of an approaching storm with such grit and grace, she and her new little daughter earned an early discharge from the hospital. They tucked themselves into their home just in time to monitor Snowstorm Fern from their own, cozy windows.

Ronni’s big sister Margo greeted her there and, if you ever find yourself wondering about the state of humanity during times that try men’s souls, watch a three-year-old tenderly stroke an newborn’s back while they share precious real estate on their mother’s lap. That tiny hand on that tinier back swelled my heart.

All births are stunning miracles. Time stops for just a moment as life begets life, and then it marches on so quickly you can barely catch your breath.

Our job is to celebrate each precious moment.

By the time I post this, Ronni will be three times as old as she was when she made her debut. Though I live 1,000 miles away, I don’t want to miss a moment.

Yesterday, my phone buzzed softly while I sat in church. The priest had just warned us against the evils of cellphone addiction and I had agreed and vowed to spend less time on my own. Still, I peeked into my purse and saw a Facetime Call from my New Jersey family. I hesitated for just a moment, and then grabbed my things and hustled out of church. With a giant storm descending on the East Coast, and a brand new life in the house, I thought God would probably understand.

I know my dad would have, for sure.

From my car, I enjoyed the most life affirming catch-up . I offered another quick prayer of gratitude as I hung up.

Life can be so many things — miraculous, beautiful, painful, challenging and sweet. Mostly, though, it’s fleeting. We really have to give it our best shot.

I’m so grateful to add another little branch to our family tree.

Welcome to the world, Ronni Wren. We’re glad you’re here.