Hi! I'm Ann. I live in Brentington, Michigan. I'm your average 7 year old girl -- pretty eyes, a nice smile, a head of luscious hair, and a whole lot of character! I didn't know it, but today was one of the most important days of my life. Why? Well, let me tell ya!

It was just like any other day. I was sitting on the couch, Daddy was at work, and Mom was listening to music near the fireplace. All of a sudden, the phone began to ring.

Rrrrring! Rrrrring! Rrrrrrring!

Mom picked up the phone.

Hello? Who is-

Hey Rose! It's Jay! How's my favorite sister?

Mom answered the phone, but before she could fully answer, I could hear Uncle Jay's voice.

"Hey Rose! How's my favorite sister?" he said. 

"Oh my goodness, hello Jay! How are you doing?" Mom asked.

"Good," Uncle Jay said. "I'm coming to visit Brentington, and I was wondering if you, me, and Ann would want to hang out."

Mom looked over at me, almost asking me with her eyes if I wanted to hang out with Uncle Jay. I decided to go into my room to think about it.

I didn't know what to think. Uncle Jay never treated me badly... but he likes to hug me a lot. I don't like hugs as much as he does, but he's my family! So it's okay.. right?

The more I kept thinking, the more I told myself to just put on my big girl pants and go hang out with my uncle. I went out to the living room to tell my mom that I was ready to hang out with Uncle Jay. Mom was very happy, and told me to pack some things for the day. 

Mom and I went to Brittle Park, where Uncle Jay was waiting for us. He smiled and hugged my mom. 

"It's great to see you again, Rose." he said.

Mom smiled and kissed his cheek. 

"It's wonderful to see you too!" she replied. 

I looked up at Uncle Jay shyly. I didn't know why, but I didn't feel like giving him a hug. I was scared and I cowered behind Mom. Mom was confused. 

"Aren't you gonna give your uncle a hug, Ann?"

I walked a little closer to him, but I was stuck.

In terror, I ran off.