Nine years ago today, Perpetua was born while our family was living and studying the French language north of the border in Canada. She is the only member of our family who has two physical passports from two different countries (her American passport and he Canadian passport). To celebrate her 9th birthday, she went out early with Mama to get a cup of coffee and donuts to share with her siblings.

After cleaning up and getting some school work done, she told Papa that she would like to go to Buffalo Wild Wings and get a burger for her birthday meal with dad :-)

Those who know Perpetua and our family well know that she is “the quiet Broten”, but she is also well-known within our four walls for her humor, helpfulness around the house, and her gentleness with kids. A few Sundays ago, our family was standing up in front of our church and Lazarus started crying in Sonja’s arms. Perpetua looked up at Sonja and held her arms out. Sonja passed Lazarus along and within five seconds, our “baby whisperer” had him quiet. I told her she should market that skill :-) Happy 9th birthday Perpetua. We love you so much!