Happy 5th Birthday Brayden

We've have a crazy weekend... It's been so busy. We each had a great time. We laughed, played, ate, sang. We celebrated Brayden. Today my first born baby turned 5! So big! No longer a baby. No longer even a toddler really. Each time I tell him how sad I am that he's growing, he always says, "it's ok mom- I'll always be your son!" Love that kid.

Brayden,

Today you are one day older, one day wiser, one day closer to becoming the young man that Jesus created and your father and I dreamed about. We are proud beyond words. I feel I could go on and on about what you mean to us and how much we love you. Most days you ask us if we are proud of you... Our constant response is "we are ALWAYS proud of you.". Each day. Today I thought I'd write down on your 5th birthday, five things that made us proud in today alone:

1. Today, you had bubblegum for the first time. You have never whined or been upset that your friends could have it and you could not. You understood and respected our rule to wait until you were 5. Today was YOUR day. you tried Kung Foo Panda bubble tape! As a responsible young boy, you threw it away when it was time for bed and explained to Bryce why he couldn't have it.

2. Today, you went to Sunday School and I was told what a polite and good student you are- that you always use manners and listen to your teacher.

3. Today, without whining, you shared your toys with your brother. Thank you for being a good example to him and teaching him the importance of sharing your things

4. Today, as you do each day, you bring laughter, a good attitude, and a caring spirit into our family.

5. Today, as you do each day, you by JUST being YOU made me smile and thank God that he entrusted us to be your parents

We are VERY VERY proud of you. You are a complete joy. I don't quite remember life without you and I don't quite want to. :) I love you son. You enrich my life...I feel blessed.

Love,

Mommy