Another Level Under Their Belts

So, they did it. The boys are moving up to level 3 in swimming lessons!



This year they both took level 2 back-to-back classes. (I like it this way so they get more water time.) Last year I was told it takes a few times to pass the second level. I'm very proud of my boys for getting there this time! They sure enjoy jumping off the diving board--much to the hidden terror of their mother.

Big Events

Last night was a big night for my older boys. At pack meeting, Baxter received a golden arrow point along with a couple more belt loops. He's worked hard all year and will move up to webelos next month.

Zander experienced his first pack meeting as a scout. He received his bobcat badge and a belt loop.

For the activity they became NASA agents working to save an egg from re-entering the Earth's atmosphere. That was a fun experience. What a big day for both of them! Good job boys.

Today the boys visited the dentist. Good news, no cavities!! Exciting news, Baxter got braces on his two front teeth! In three weeks he'll return to have the chain put on, which will bring them together. That should only take about 4 weeks! When asked to pick a color for the brackets, Baxter first chose his favorite color---YELLOW! The dental assistant and I worked together to convince him yellow might not be the way to go on teeth. His second choice was a great one, and perfect for the upcoming holiday--RED for Valentine's Day! Don't they look great?!

Zander's Big Day

We started out 2009 with a splash! Zander decided to be baptized on Saturday, January 3rd. Zander was so excited! It was a great day.

Zander chose not to plug his nose while being baptized. (You don't plug your nose when you swim.) His Grandpa Goble had to dunk him twice. Then his Grandpa Taylor confirmed him. Zander behaved wonderfully--for Zander.



Thanks to all the friends and family who supported Zander's big day.

I'm so proud of Zander for choosing to make this covenant with his Heavenly Father. I hope he'll always live up to it.

So this is Christmas...and what have we done?

This year I was truly impressed by what friends and family have done to show love to others. I was also overcome by the love that was shown to my family and friends. It's been a rough year for so many people I know, and yet they made it through. I can only wish them continued strength in the year to come, and continued hope that things will get better. To all my friends and family, I love you dearly and look forward to spending the next year surrounded by your love. I welcome the opportunity to show my children what the true meaning of Christmas is and that it should last throughout the year. Merry Christmas everyone, and Happy New Year!

Where did the time go?

I realized November flashed by without my having updated our blog, so here's a quick update.

During November, Baxter won an award for Best in Show at the Woods Cross Elementary reflections contest! Congratulations, Baxter.

Zander was excited to have his Aunt Audra instruct his school class on ASL. Thanks, Audra, you made him feel special!

Syler enjoyed his first taste of food other than formula, rice cereal, or licks from Mommy's cookies. He ate sweet potatoes in honor of Thanksgiving--actually on this wonderful day of thanks!

As usual, we celebrated Thanksgiving at Granny Goon's. We can't get enough of her delicious Thanksgiving spread. Thanks for letting us grace your table, Granny Goon!

I'll take this chance to say thanks to all of my family including my family-in-law. We appreciate the love a support we get from all of you. Thanks also to our friends for being an important part of our lives. God bless!