SEVEN

That is how old Braden is today. Seven! Seven years ago my life forever changed and I became a mother to this sweet boy! I love that he is such a good kid. He has always had such a tender heart and sweet spirit. I was certain when I was pregnant with him that he was going to be a girl because no one in my family had yet to have a boy first. I remember finding out that we were having a boy and being worried that he would be a rough and tough (even borderline out of control) boy. Not that it's a bad thing but I would always hear from parents, "Oh, he's a boy" as an excuse for their child's behavior. The task seemed daunting to raise a boy that would grow up to be a mature, respectful, worthy priesthood holder and he wasn't even born yet! I can honestly say that I couldn't imagine my life without a son because he has been such a joy. He is the best big brother and I love the example he sets for sisters and ME! He always reminds me as we're rushing out the door Sunday mornings that we didn't read the scriptures. Or when we're 4 bites into lunch (and he hasn't taken a bite) he asks if he can say the prayer. Oh, I just love him!

So, to celebrate his birthday we had a party for him this morning with 8 of his friends. They had a great time playing outside on the waterslide. Braden's only request was to have pizza and brownies instead of cake. Easy enough. We gave him Battleship and the Super Mario Bros game for the wii. Grandma and Papa McCune got him lots of clothes and Braden bought himself a science kit (he really wanted a microscope) and Children's Atlas with the gift card. He loved getting cards in the mail from Uncle Sean & Aunt Megan and Great Grandpa & Grandma Moutray. Thanks for remembering him! He sure felt loved! The rest of the evening was spent playing the wii with Andy and a game of Battleship with me. Overall, just a great day being together!

Happy Birthday Braden! We love you bud!