Ricky decided he needed to have another birthday.
This time he decided to turn 12!
How did THAT happen?
Ricky is an awesome kid! He is super smart and an amazing reader. He’s patient with his brothers and plays really well with the little kids. He understands stuff – I love talking to him! He listens to reason and can appreciate why I parent him the way I do – that is really fun! It is fun to be able to say, “this is why I’m asking you to do this” and he thinks for a moment and responds, “okay.”
He’s grown up so much since starting junior high! Don’t get me wrong, he still plays imagination and likes his fuzzy creatures, but he isn’t afraid to take charge of himself. Ricky had set his math book and binder down in the hall and when he came back, it was gone. Instead of me going to the school to solve the mystery, Ricky handled it. He checked with the office, his teacher, the janitors and when that all failed, a neighbor who works in the office stepped in – through the security footage, it was discovered that a girl picked it up and put it in her locker and they were able to get it back for him. But he handled it! It was awesome!
Ricky loves this cat … perhaps a bit TOO much!
The day after Ricky’s birthday, he was ordained a deacon in our church. Kevin did the ordaining and it was a special moment for me. As I listened to the blessing, surrounded by my other 4 crazies, I couldn’t help but think about how full my home will be of the priesthood someday! That little bit of extra will be a blessing to us all!
Being a deacon means that Ricky can pass the sacrament to the congregation now. The first few weeks, he seemed so timid and unsure. It was hard to watch because I could see how nervous he was and Ricky is so seldom nervous. I think he sensed the seriousness of what he was doing. A couple of months later now and he is a pro! He stands tall and does his thing! It makes my heart happy.
Ricky likes ice cream cakes for his birthday.
I hope he was wishing for books for his birthday because that’s mostly what he got!
I guess the ice cream cake made them all chilly because I found them snuggled up with Grandmama when it was time to open presents!
Sometimes you see lessons you’ve tried to teach pay off … we’ve talked about expressing gratitude for gifts many, many, MANY times in our house. Ricky’s enthusiasm over these t-shirts from Grandmama was proof that he’s listened. (not that he didn’t like them, but he’s 12 … and a boy … and it’s a shirt … ‘nuf said)
Gotta show that appreciation …
I hope he’s ever too old for a hug!
I am a very lucky mom! (thanks for the lovely picture, Kev)
I wouldn’t trade him for any other kid in the world!
Love you, Ricky!