Happy Eighth Birthday, Alec!

Eight years have flown!

When I was pregnant with you, Daddy was very nervous about being a daddy. He also took very good care of me because I was so sick. I threw up so much that I lost 11 lbs. and had to go to the hospital.

I was working at the Spa, cutting hair, and I would work a 40 hour week with two 10 hour days back to back. Everyone was in disbelief that I could stand up that long with my huge belly.

When my due date came around, my doctor wanted to induce me. Being the natural freak that I am, I said no. Two weeks later, you were still comfortable in my belly and I was very uncomfortable! We packed up our bags and went into the hospital to be induced.

You were born in the middle of the night. Nana and Papa, Grandma and Grandpa, and lots more people were there. They all came into the room to greet you; you were the first grandchild for everyone.

When it was time for me to go back to work, I cried a lot because I didn't want to leave you. You stayed at Nana's house while I worked and she gave you bottles and read you books and played with you. You used to go upstairs to Nana's window seat and make "spaghetti" with Papa's pens and pencils and say, "frinkle, frinkle!" while you sprinkled on pennies for cheese.

Now you are eight years old, and full of questions, answers, and smiles.
You are a wonderful and patient (most of the time!) big brother to Ava. I love it when you read to her or let her play on the "Alec playground" when I'm trying to fix dinner.

You and Benji have lots of fun playing with your Legos and Star Wars guys and making battle scenes and JunkBot mazes.

You are an important part of our family. Benji and Ava will learn lots of things from you. As you grow, Daddy and I will depend on you to help our household run smoothly.

You love science and history, and you are quite the artist and storyteller. You are very creative and like to make things from your imagination.

I will be teaching you at home this fall, and I am very excited to begin a journey of new discoveries and learning with you.

Daddy and I love you very much. God made you special; there is no one like you. You are a blessing from our Heavenly Father and we are grateful to have you here with us.

~Happy Birthday, Sander!~