Always in my heart

I've been thinking about this boy a lot lately, maybe it's because this week would have been his 25th birthday. I had intended to post on his birthday but when I went to scan some pictures I had stashed in my special Gaven folder I couldn't find it. I know where it was and I remember moving it to a safe location to scan later, now my problem is finding that very safe and special location. It made my heart sink when I couldn't find it but I've decided to make do with what I have on my hard drive because as my niece's blog stated yesterday he touched many lives and it's always nice to know he's in our hearts. 

This sweet little guy had the most ear piercing high pitched scream I have heard. Whether he was in the middle of a tantrum or laughing, that pitch would make anyone cringe. I couldn't have imagined at that time what a sweet and caring disposition he would have.

We were in Park City for a family weekend when Gaven caught this fish at a nearby pond. Look at how happy he is with his great catch. There's only one small problem with this catch, the fish was already dead. I can't remember if his dad told him this small fact, but we all had a good laugh.

What teenage boy do you know that would suggest to his family that they should spend family home evening watching his aunt play indoor soccer. Yes, that was Gaven's nature. He thought it was important for them to come out as a family and support me in a Monday night game at the ATC. Although I'm not the type that likes my own little cheering section it really touched me that he thought it was important.

This is probably one of my favorite pictures of Gaven with my parents and his boy cousins. They loved Gaven and looked up to him. I'm sure Gaven would have been a great example for them today. 

It's been almost nine years and it still seems just like yesterday. You were my little buddy that I could play fight with and you would always let the girl win. You were a true gentleman at only 16 years old. You touched many lives and I'm so proud that you are my nephew! 

Love always,