Big boy bed...

We talked a lot about what to get Brayden for his birthday and finally decided he needed a new bed and soon. He was currently in a toddler bed, which was quickly getting small for our growing boy. We decided to get him a bunk bed with a full size on the bottom and a twin on top. That way he can grow into the full size bed and we hopefully won't have to get him another bed until he moves out:). I researched different websites and stores and we found a reasonable bed and mattresses. We also changed the theme in his room to sports. Which is one I figured he can have for a long time. He LOVES his bed! He loves for Travis and I to lay down with him and read because now we fit. He's already had a slumber party with his friend. I think one of his favorite things was to help us set up the bunk bed. He had a Home Depot apron on and was actually a big help. He loved it!

Happy Birthday Brayden!

We can't believe our little man turned 4 this week! I know we all say that, but time flies when we're having fun. 4 years ago on his birthday I was screaming in a birthing tub asking for an epidural. Hahaha, it's funny because I was at a birthing center and knew full well that I obviously couldn't get that there. I was determined to go natural and I did mainly because at the time I didn't have a choice:) You imagine the birth of your first child to go a certain way. I especially did being a labor and delivery nurse and seeing multiple births every day. It didn't go quite like I thought it would, but it was beautiful and the end result was perfect. Beautiful, healthy baby and happy/tired mom. I remember looking at Travis after we had Brayden and he had tears in his eyes. He just said, "my son." It was a special moment.
Brayden has been a gift to us since the moment he was born. He is laid back, loving and lovable, encouraging, sensitive, and a very sweet little boy. He even told me today "Mom, thanks so much for doing my laundry, you did a good job." :) That doesn't mean that he doesn't have bad days, but luckily they are few and far between. He loves his family and friends, loves helping daddy do anything, and loves playing with his sister. He is still learning his letters, colors and numbers, but can do a 100 piece puzzle by himself and is great at sports. We are excited/nervous for him to start school this year but know it's time and he's ready.
To celebrate Brayden's 4th birthday he decided he wants a Curious George birthday party. That's very fitting because he watches his show almost everyday and loves reading his books. We had over his best friend Cooper and his 3 cousins. The kids painted, played a Curious George game, I read a book about George making pizza and then the kids made "pizza" cookies to take home, we ate pizza and of course cake. I think the thing they enjoyed the most was just playing out in the backyard, (thank God for the nice weather). I talked to Brayden before his party about being thankful for every present he opened. It was so funny. Every present, whether it was clothes, or some cool toy he exclaimed, "WOW!!!!" That was cute. Brayden, you are a joy to have as a son and we can't wait to see what God has planned for your life. Happy Birthday Mr. B!

Making "pizza" cookies

This was the hardest cake I've made yet because I had to free-hand the picture onto the cake, but it was a lot of fun and I didn't want to cut it up:)

Brayden at Azteca. He's been there every birthday since his first. Kind of a family tradition:)

I love Puyallup!

Peyton hanging out with her balloon

The library sets out chalk for families to use outside

I was impressed with the artwork

Brayden playing in a little tent set up next to the booth

Us

Poor Travis had to be there at 7:30 and didn't get home until 2:30, but of course he did it with a happy heart. What t good man!

We've lived in Puyallup now for 3 years and just love it here. It seems this city tries hard to be family friendly wherever we go. One of my new favorite things here is the Farmer's Market. It's so fun to go and look around at all the pretty produce, yummy treats, and get all the free samples:) This year Renovo has had a booth at the market and our HFG has manned it twice this summer. It's been fun, the kids love it and we've met a lot of new people. We pass out balloons, do a root beer taste test, face paint for the kids, and just talk to people. I know our family has enjoyed our time hanging out. Looking forward to next year!