Saturday, August 2nd: Little diva!!!!!!!!!

So on Saturday my adorable niece, Marin, turned 9!!! I can't believe she's already 9. I met her for the first time when she was 3....and now she's 9! Ah!

(the beautiful birthday girl)

Marin is a one-of-a-kind girl. She is so wonderful. My love, respect, and admiration for her has only grown as she's grown. She has one of the most pure, non-judgemental heart ever. She's so open minded and sees people for who they really are. I think a lot of the reason she's like this is she's had an older brother, Braxton, with autism. She understands there are people of all ages with special needs. I've had the opportunity to witness this with my own eyes. Marin has been so accepting of Mercydez...I can't think about it too much because I start bawling. Marin told me that "Mercydez is one of the most beautiful baby's she's ever seen". When I responded with, "oh...that's so nice of you to say Marin." she said, "It's true Aunt Addy. She is." That's the type of person Marin is.

Marin is also a wonderful "older" sister too. She really takes care of her brothers. She's always looking out for them, whether it's making sure Braxton takes his medicine or whether it's making sure Grayson eats all of his dinner when Uncle Trav & Aunt Addy threaten bed if he doesn't finish (this has only happened a few times!). I know she'll be just as protective and loving to little Keegan.

Marin is also a wonderful friend. Even when she was 3 or 4 she called her friends her "girls". She is so loyal to her gender. I absolutely love watching her around boys. It's especially fun when Trav teases me in front of her! I'll tell you what! She immediately takes my side and will fight to the death for me! I just smile and fall even more in love with her. She's one of my favorite nieces! ;)

I had the great opportunity to help with her birthday party on Saturday. It was so fun to meet some of her Hannah-Montana-and-High-School-Musical-obsessed-friends. I thought it was so cute! All of Marins friends are little divas. They all had purses, were wearing lip gloss, OF COURSE they all looked adorable, in style and all....and some even had cell phones (but Marin was seriously the cutest - can I say that without being mean!?!)

(Marin and her group of friends)

Alicia takes after her mom - PARTY QUEEN (and I dare say Marin will follow in their footsteps). There were 14 girls plus me and Alicia. Alicia treated the girls to a movie, Journey to the Center of the Earth, complete w/drinks and popcorn. They had a blast! I must say I did too. I always love spending time with Alicia. I learn so much from her - through observation alone.

Trav got to hang out with Braxton, Grayson, & Cam. They ran some errands (they went to the grocery store together! I don't know why but I thought it was hilarious!!) and hung out at the house until the party was over. They seemed to enjoy themselves...and Braxton is beside himself when Uncle Trav is around!

Anyways, later that night we all went out to The Cheesecake Factory to celebrate the birthday girl. Ummmm! Ummmm! It was delicious! We had a great time.

We love you Marin!!!!! Happy birthday girl!