8 is Great! Except when it's your kid, and then 8 is getting too old, too fast.

5 days old

At the same time I was spending my Amazon Christmas gift card on a present for my son's birthday, my son was spending his Amazon Christmas card on a surprise, out-of-the-blue present for his daddy. He needed my help on the computer, and wanted to make sure I didn't spill the beans to Rick.

Love him.

1st birthday

When we prayed the other night in his room before bedtime, my prayer went on a bit longer than normal, and when we finished he said, "I was praying my own prayer in my head, asking God for wisdom."

Love him.

2nd birthday

He went the whole week without burping or talking about burping so daddy would buy him a shock pen. It was a deal they made, to make me happy (it was a hard task for him, I know!)

Love him. 

3rd birthday

"Mama, I'm gonna make you a promise...I'm not going to move out until I'm 50, 

so you won't be sad."

Love him. 

4th birthday

We bought him roller blades for his birthday, and I spent the entire night before fretting for the safety of his elbows and knees and he went out there and skated like he's been doing it for years. 

Love him. 

5th birthday at Knott's Berry Farm

Once a pretty shy kiddo, he has grown into a confident, outgoing, sensitive young man. 

Love him. 

6th birthday at Benihana

His little sister is his best friend, and her happiness and comfort are always important to him. 

Love him. 

7th birthday

The other parents at school always say, "Oh that Loudoun, he is hilarious!" Yes, he keeps us laughing ALL.THE.TIME.

Love him. 

8th birthday - 2012

Loudoun, I look at you and see such a grown-up kid. Someone with so much love and happiness in his heart. Here's to a great year, bubba. We love you. 8 years ago you changed our lives, and I live everyday so proud to be your mama.