Big News in a Birthday Package

August 16, 2025

When we were in Idaho for Max's homecoming, it was also Brian's birthday weekend. We began Saturday morning with a little gift-opening party. Brinley had been asking me if I had any ideas on what to get Bri. I didn't have much. He is tricky! If you ask him what he wants, he will usually say something like, "just for everyone to be together." I mentioned to Brinley that maybe she could get him Play-Doh or something like that for him to enjoy with Kaide.

So, when Brian opened his "Papa Kit" from Bryn and Derek, I didn't think twice. They had magnetic ABC letters, a Go Dog Go board book, puzzles, and more. When Brian read the card, however, the Papa kit was a gift that could also be used to play with his newest grandbaby, coming in March.  

Wait....WHAT?!?!?!

Brian got a huge grin, and I started squealing and jumping up and down all around the small living room. Parker was there too, which made it all the more fun. We hugged and congratulated them and got all of the details. Then Bryn and Derek FaceTimed the rest of the family. Erin was headed to a concert with her family, but Tanner, Kaide, and Aubrey were all together. Brinley told them the news, and lots of celebrating followed. Bryn was able to get a hold of Erin a couple of hours later. I think everyone was pretty surprised by their announcement, and I know we were all extremely excited. 

That little baby is lucky have Derek and Brinley for his parents. We can't wait for baby boy Atkinson's arrival next spring!