Making acquaintances.

Ryan came home for Christmas leave and of course everyone greeted him with great excitement.  In spite of his large size and deceptively grown-up appearance he is just a large, cuddly teddy bear and all the kids seem to recognize that as soon as they come into contact with him. 

This trip home also gave him a chance to meet his new niece, Savannah and get reacquainted with Layn.

I think it was love at first sight.  He and Layn got along famously and Savannah loves her uncle as long as he has a bottle somewhere nearby.