Seven!

Seven years ago, something happened that changed our lives forever. After two sweet little girls (and feeling like I had things figured out) I gave birth to a baby boy! I never had brothers, and to be honest, I wasn't sure how this boy thing was going to work. I remember my mom jokingly saying, "Well, I'm not sure if I can help you much. I've only raised girls." Boys are different. They are rough and tumble, non-stop wrestling machines, but nothing can melt my heart more than a hug from my boys. It seems like that morning seven years ago was just seven DAYS ago! I just can't believe how quickly it has gone.

We've gone from this:

... and this:

To THIS!! It's funny that he has about the same amount of teeth now that he did back then (HAHA... we keep teasing him that if he loses any more, he won't even be able to eat! How I love the missing teeth!)

I can NOT imagine life without this sweet boy. He is very tenderhearted (even when he's trying to be tough) and is the most social child I've ever met! He can make friends with everyone, and is kind to all he comes in contact with. (Don't get me wrong... there are sibling fights at times, but usually he is just as sweet as can be!)

He loves to run, jump, climb, and play just about any sport (in fact he can't wait until he can play basketball and football for real), and loves the Nickelodeon series Avatar: The Last Airbender. So that was the theme of his party this year! First they did a "water bending" activity. They had to get water from one cup to another just using a straw. I think this was their favorite game.

Then they did "air bending." They had to blow through a straw and move a cotton ball across the blanket.

Next was "fire bending." They each made their own fire-ball and had to throw it through the ring of fire.

After a fun and crazy obstacle course, we went back inside for gifts and cake.

Make a wish!!

Sunday was B's REAL birthday, so we had Grandma Cheryl and PapaBob over for dinner, then later on, we had everyone else come for cake and ice cream. We are always so happy to see Grandpa Grace. He's the best!

Bryson sat and read Grandpa's card to him. It was so cute.

This fun shirt came from PapaBob and Grandma Cheryl. Love it!!

And of course, there is always fun, crazy chaos when you get the cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents together in one place. (Somehow I didn't get a picture of Aunt Christina and Timmy, but they were there too!)

Bryson loved all his gifts, but most of all he loved that so many family members were able to come. We always miss those who live too far away!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRYSON. WE LOVE YOU!!