Jonathan is a TEENAGER!!!

Jonathan turned 13 today! I can't believe it. Oh, the memories that flood back of that day he arrived a month before we were planning!

My heart was filled with emotion as Jonathan asked for a purity ring a couple of months ago. This is a picture of him as he excitedly put it on this morning. Pray that he will be strong in his commitment.
Jonathan and Jacob share a brotherly hug before school!

Jacob's Arrow of Light and Crossover Ceremony

Jacob reached a big milestone by earning his Arrow of Light award, the highest award in Cub Scouting. It was a big night for him as he bridged up from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts. Jacob also accomplished something not many boys earning the Arrow of Light do. He earned all 20 Webelos Activity Pins. For those who are experienced scouters, you know this is not easy to accomplish. I guess he wanted to be just like his big brother!!!



The Arrow of Light award that you see Jacob holding was made by his previous den leader from Texas, Jo Tye. Knowing Jacob would earn this award, Jo gave us this award to give to Jacob when he completed the requirements. It was very special to him.

The most emotional part of the ceremony (for Mom anyway!) was when Jonathan welcomed Jacob into Boy Scouts after Jacob crossed the bridge. Jonathan placed the Boy Scout neckerchief around Jacob's neck. I couldn't hold back the tears.

Thanks to my friend, Lisa Wilson, for taking all these great pictures.

Jacob's Last Pinewood Derby

Jacob participated in his last pinewood derby as a Cub Scout. As a Webelos II, he will be crossing over into Boy Scouts in March. He finished in 1st place in the Webelos II category, but didn't place in the pack overall. It was a fun day.

Christmas 2008

We had a quiet Christmas celebrating the day with just our family. Jonathan and Jacob took their time opening gifts, jumping up and down with joy, and thanking everyone for the great gifts. The most challenging gift was from Uncle Ted and Aunt Darlene. They sent gift cards within a pinball puzzle. Getting those little medal balls in the small hole was tough, but the guys persevered until they claimed their prizes!

It's Christmas Day!!!

Kia shows off her gift from Grammy - a Carolina sweater! She looks extra cute in her new attire. The sweater was needed as it snowed the day after Christmas and it was cold all week.

Jacob's 11th Birthday

Jacob's 11th birthday was a day of laughs! He started the day with the only present he asked for - a Nerf Vulcan! As you can tell by his face, he was pretty happy!

Jacob's 11th party included 11 invited guests and started at 11am. The Nerf party included several brutal rounds of dodge ball, target games, and an all-out Nerf battle. With everyone having a Nerf gun, bullets were flying everywhere! David and Angel were glad for the pizza break! You can see some of the arsenal of weapons in the foreground of the picture.

Jacob's cake featured two Nerf bullets highlighting his 11th birthday.

Fun with his friends!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS!

More Pictures of Grandpa's Visit