Congratulations, Brad!

I'm so proud to report that my favorite nephew, Brad Matthews, got straight As for the first time (in high school anyway). I've got three other nephews who have at one time or another been my favorite, but none of them enjoys hearing how much I love him as Brad does.

Brad is the spawn of my brother, John. I wish my mother hadn't died 30 years ago for a million reasons, one of which is that she would never stop laughing about how much John's kids are like him - a just revenge, of course!

Brad possesses an amazing intellect and a near perfect memory. You can't help but look at this kid and wonder where life will take him. He's pondering the sciences as a vocation, possibly genetics. I can't wait to see what he does in this world.

No matter how wonderful Brad's brain is, however, his heart is even more remarkable. He may be 14 but he's never disdainful of his adoring aunt, and I love that. I love him! Congratulations, Brad, for being both smart and loving. I am so proud of you!