I remember their first encounter....and remember witnessing the exact moment their lives became entwined. My son was just shy of his 2nd birthday...Rylan was celebrating her 13th. Through various circumstances, she ended up at our pool that evening and decided to imbibe in a little swim. My son, Jaden, who you could describe as shy at best, couldn't resist the opportunity to join her. It wasn't the warmest June evening....but those two took on the cold swim with a vengence. It was during this swim that the magical moment occured. It was nothing more than a glance between them, but if you caught it...you could see it....almost HEAR it click.

Needless to say, they became almost inseparable. She became his baby-sitter, his psuedo-big sister, his teacher and his mentor. The feeling was obviously mutual....as you would swear by the stories Rylan told, the relationship was more than just that of a baby-sitter and her charge. Pictures of Jaden hung in Rylan's locker at school and she told stories of him constantly. There was no one in her life that didn't know of Jaden's exsistence or his newest accomplishment. Because of this "connection"...my husband and I got to know Rylan (Ry as she was called) better, as well. She became our "adopted daughter". Bright, witty, charming, funny and dependable....always there when you needed her....and even when you didn't! A true light in our lives!

Rylan, on the eve of your "anniversary", you are sooo missed, and still so loved. You will always hold a very special place in all our lives, and just know that Jaden has been forever touched by your time with him. You two were meant for each other......."Two Peas in a Pod"... if ever there were.

Fly high and fly free Ry!

The McCallums

Rylan was such a sweet girl. She was funny and outgoing and very talented. This is so sad.