Today I am 7.

Seven. Wow. It’s been a tremendous year! But first, a recap of the last month.

School is going well. I am mostly enjoying math and science. I also like studying Ancient Egypt, which is the focus of AIM this year. Recess with my friends is a highlight and I like to bring my football to play either football or king of the hill with my friends. Here is a paper we had to write about when we were studying the election process. My dad was pretty proud of my first answer.

We had a great Thanksgiving break. Our school has the whole week off, which is really nice. I got to spend time with my friends, spend the night with Grandma and Grandpap and I got to go read to Cara’s preschool class (she had school that week!).

Thanksgiving was celebrated at Grandma and Grandpap’s house. This year as we all sat around the table saying what we were most thankful for, Cara said, “mommy” and I said, “All that is good.” As always, we are happy to spend the day with our family. We also had the first “Friendsgiving” the night before at our house. We had several friends over and had a terrific time. A trip to the movies to see Wreck It Ralph and Grandma’s birthday celebration at our house rounded out the week’s festivities.

With Thanksgiving in the rear view mirror, it was time to look forward to December. My favorite month. Not only is it Christmas, but it is my birthday month! Cara and I wrote our Santa letters out and we made plans to see “the Big Guy.” Well, Cara was not real interested in seeing Santa. When we arrived, and thankfully no one else was there, she laid on the floor and cried. Santa was very nice and let me read my list to him while Cara cried. He told my mom that he could hold her, so she picked Cara up and put her in his lap. Here’s that happy memory.

Cara said that she wrote her letter and she would just mail it to Santa and did not have any need to tell him what she wanted.

Much happier mailing her letter. In case you were wondering what was on my Santa Wish List, here are a few highlights: Sports Guys, maps, money, iTunes gift cards, blue iLight, iHome, table tennis net, two basketball hoops for a court and baseballs.

We also participated in the City of Allen Rudolph Run. We ran into several of my friends and it was fun to do it together.

Cara wasn’t there as she was with Grandma, Nanny and Cousin Emily at a breakfast with St. Nickolas at Grandma’s church. Apparently she liked St. Nickolas slightly better than Santa.

My Dad served as Watch DOG on Dec. 7. Since my birthday is on a Sunday this year, Friday was the day they would announce my birthday on the announcements and I wanted Dad there! We were very excited to have a visit with our good friends the Gregory’s from Kansas City. They let us take over their house this summer when we traveled there for the All Star Game. It is always a joy to spend time with long-time friends – and new friends too!

Last night I had my first basketball game of the season. During the summer season, I didn’t score a basket. My first game I scored 8 points! I was so excited! I am on a team with my school friends and I am having a great time. I also had a few friends over for a sleepover party. We ate pizza, played outside, sang Christmas songs, ate cake, opened presents, played air hockey, enjoyed the movie ELF, and watched Johnny Football win the Heisman! It was quite a night! I had decided on a football themed-party and wanted a football field for a cake. I thought Mommy, with help from me, Cara and Britton, did a pretty good job.

It’s been a great 7 years – the number of points a touchdown + point after is. Here’s to another fabulous 7!

And from the day I was born …

Here’s a video my mom made of my last seven years.

Note from Mom …

Dear Sean, Thank you for making me a Mom. Seven years have gone by and we have had so many awesome memories. You have taught me so much. To see the world through your eyes and your kind and loving heart inspires me. I remember vividly the day I had you and the first moment I saw and held you. You may grow up and change, but I will always see that little face when I look at you. You were a gift right before Christmas, a shining light. I am proud to be your mom. Happy birthday. I love you, Mom.

Hold on, to me as we go
As we roll down this unfamiliar road
And although this wave is stringing us along
Just know you’re not alone
Cause I’m going to make this place your home
Settle down, it'll all be clear
Don't pay no mind to the demons
They fill you with fear
The trouble it might drag you down
If you get lost, you can always be found
Just know you’re not alone
Cause I’m going to make this place your home

xoxo always, Mom.