Assembly

Every Friday Bee Cave Elementary begins their day with a school assembly. They say the American Pledge, the Texas Pledge, sing the school song,  and belt out all sorts of chants on how awesome it is to learn at their school.  Classes take turns presenting one of the 6 pillars of Character, and last Friday, Mariah's class had the spotlight.  It was fun to watch the whole school come together and feel the school spirit.  I had to hold back when all the kids broke out doing the Macarena as they went to class. 

 

Mariah has made many friends at school.  She is beloved by her classmates and is always planning the next playdate.  The other day Tyler and I were talking about her sweetness, and he told me that just the other day while they were outside washing his car, some girls were walking by with their dog.  Mariah walked over and started making conversation with them.  After a few minutes, she said, "Well, I better go.  It was so nice chit chatting with you." 

 

Love it.

 



 

Every time I go to any activity at the school, I feel such gratitude that I am able to be there for these moments.  It is so fun to peek into their world at school and see all the great things they are a part of. 

Twelve

Logan turned 12 on January 12th, and I am still recovering from shock.  I cannot believe that we are here.  I am usually not known to be so sentimental when my children turn another year older, or reach important milestones- it's usually just so fun and exciting- but this year I am feeling the emotions of watching my children grow up too fast. 

 

 

 

His birthday fell on a Saturday, so we spent a majority of our day at games.  He spent the afternoon "hanging out" with friends, playing football, and outdoor games.
 

 

This meal clearly does not look like anything special, but it was the highlight of his birthday.  We had plans to go to a BBQ restaurant to celebrate, but as the day went on and parents got tired, and kids kept playing so happily, I threw out the idea to get take out.  We had never done this before, and as I presented the idea, with the opportunity to miss out on the crowds and stay in and watch football with his dad, uncles and vovo- he was sold.   I came home with a pile of ribs and brisket, which were quickly devoured, and then the football cheering commenced. 

A boy after his mother's heart, he bypassed the traditional cake and requested cheesecake.  I still find it funny that he takes his wish making so very seriously.  I've never seen a kid take so long to blog out candles. 

We usually keep gifts pretty simple for birthdays.  It is mostly about celebrating the person and making the day all about them.  But, since it was such a special number, Tyler wanted to be sure he got something he's been really wanting... a ripstick.  Dad may or may not have been wanting one as well. ;)

 



 

The journey of raising this boy has been remarkable.  When I think of all of the love, time, worry, fun, challenges, triumphs we've experienced so far, it humbles me greatly.  I am a better person because of him.  I have learned so much of unconditional love and patience.  I am truly blessed to me his mother. 

 

 





 

I was so happy to have support from my family for this special time.  My oldest brother, John, couldn't make it because he had several sick children at home, but Fred and Erik were able to come from Dallas, and Dad had stayed for an extra few weeks to be here for Logan.  

 

Logan received the priesthood by his father on 1/13/13.  He has been so excited to receive this great priviledge and to graduate to the mutual program.  He couldn't wait to pass the sacrament, which he did right alongside Tyler- another sniffly day for me.

 

Every birthday we go around and talk about the birthday person and share stories or things that we admire about them.  Some that were mentioned:

 

1. Well rounded kid.  Loves to be out playing sports, but is up for an intellectual activity or conversations anytime.

 

2.  This year he has really become more aware of people he should reach out to and befriend. 

 

3. He continues to earn the name, "Honest Abe."

 

4. Classic stories of his "Firebomb" song and "I hate my life" quote were shared, and most likely will be shared every birthday- so many laughs!

 

5. He's a great big brother.  Definitely still a tease, but he does love his bro and sis.