Grins' Turns 8!!!

Grins was looking forward to his 8th birthday, especially because he was excited to be able to be baptized!  He hoped to be able to get baptized right on his birthday!  A bit before our trip across the country, though, we learned that Grins' uncle Adam had decided to be baptized on August 9th - Grins' birthday!  He was NOT excited about someone else 'hijacking' his special day - but once he realized he would get to be with all of his cousins, he decided to go along with the plan.  Despite the day being focused on the bride and groom, we tried to make parts of it special for Grins and hopefully he had a good day after all.

We were staying at Uncle Aaron and Aunt Niesha's family's condo in St. George.  With a lot of festivities happening that day, we had to wake Grins up - but we did it "birthday style" with  singing and breakfast in bed!

We then spent the day with some VERY HOT outside play (St. George in August is miserable!), some cousin time, and a lot of hanging out at the reception at the church.  Grins felt that since it was his birthday, he could indulge in as much cake as his little heart desired.  And so he did.

  

As soon as we returned to Salt Lake City, The Mr. took Grins on the traditional Birthday Hike in the mountains.  It was worth the wait!  (Note: Grins is sporting his beloved Patriots jersey - the gift he received for his birthday.)

Dear Grins,

How we love you!!  You'll never know what a blessing and a privilege it is to be your parents!  You are SUCH a sweet boy who is growing into such a remarkable young man!  Here's a little bit about you right now:

You love sports and all things active.  You love baseball, football, soccer, basketball and anything else you can try.  You would spend every waking moment playing sports if we'd let you.  You have a knack for sports and pick them up easily.  And you seem to have endless energy with which to play!

You are rough and tumble on the outside, but soft and sensitive on the inside.  You have tender feelings, and you let us know if they've been injured!  Fortunately you are quick to forgive and very loving to those around you; especially your family members.

You want to do what's right.  Even though it's difficult at times, you try to choose the right every day.  You often remind us to pray or read scriptures.  You try to show a good example to those around you.

You are a hard worker.  You love to get your jobs done quickly and efficiently.  You rarely complain about the jobs you need to do; you just get in and do them!  You like to work hard and play even harder.  

You love back rubs.  And fresh, cold drinks of water.  Each night you insist upon one of each.  You love playing legos, building things, jumping on the trampoline, eating seaweed and hummus, playing ball, riding bikes, wrestling with Daddy, reading (you're getting so good at it!), playing with other boys, and teasing your sisters.  

You are our pride and joy.  We love you so much!  Each day is such an adventure with you, and we wouldn't trade it for the world!!

We love you Grins!  Love, Mommy and Daddy