Thank you for serving our country

Yesterday we went to Staples to recycle some printer ink cartridges (so I can get $2 for each one in Staples savings for my next cartridges). We were up near the counter and Kaleb was kind of hanging close to this gentleman in Army fatigues and I asked him what he was doing. He said, "I'm kind of nervous to tell him thank you for serving our country." I looked at him in utter amazement and said, "Well then, just go do it before he leaves." So he did! The gentleman seemed a little taken aback and said it was his pleasure and he wouldn't have it any other way. He said thank you to Kaleb for saying that to him. My son makes me soooo proud to be a mom. I remember mentioning to the boys to do that to a group of Army members quite a while ago when we were in a store. No one was able to before the group was gone. That he would remember how important it is to be thankful for their service to help keep us safe brings tears to my eyes! That's my boy!

Then, last night I had Kaleb watch the boys while I went to the Temple. I had 2 neighbors on call for emergency situations, just in case. Everything went smoothly and the house was standing when I got home. Then as he was hugging me goodnight I told him I had money for him and he said I didn't need to pay him. I just asked him why and he said that a scout is willing to serve without any monetary reward. :) Ah, doesn't he just melt your heart?!! I payed him anyway, because he is soooo awesome! I love him and every day he makes me more and more proud to be his mother here on Earth!

Kaleb turned 11, in Aug!

Oh my word. Life has been flying by and I've been holding on by the skin of my teeth! We have had such an amazing last few months. I've started to write down our adventure across the country and will start to post it in increments, but right now I'm busily packing up our belongings to move back to San Luis Obispo, CA! We are so excited! Will got an amazingly wonderful job (sent only from the man upstairs) in SLO and we get to move back our happy place. We have been so blessed to live in Nashville for the last 2 1/2 years! Our lives have changed in so many blessed ways, it's going to be hard to say goodbye. Our friends are numerous and the opportunities this area affords are limitless. It's been such a wonderful chapter in our book to add to our lifetime experiences!

So, Kaleb turned 11 when we were visiting in San Luis this last August. He has hit the age where he looks forward to the next year and he is beginning to come into his own as a marvelous young man! We had Will on iChat with us during the whole celebration. Brennan, Tracie, Tegan, Kaden, Garen, Emree, and Mom and Dad Scott were all there. It was like old times having family there to celebrate with us. I'm so excited to have that opportunity to do so again!! The kids are, too! Kaleb received some wonderful gifts. He got the Percy Jackson book series, a sweet remote controlled car, some clothes, a beautiful dragon puzzle, and other odds and ends. Kaleb makes me proud every day of his life! He is such a fine young man! Here are 11 other reasons I love my sensational first born child:

1. He is sooo excited to turn 12...
2. Because he can then pass the sacrament
3. And attend the temple to do baptisms for the dead
4. He is willing and ready to step in when anyone needs help, and I mean anyone!
5. He takes care of his brothers when needed
6. He is anyone's best friend that will let him be so
7. Kaleb loves life and learning new things
8. His enthusiasm when learning or doing something he is so interested in
9. His love for the gospel and willingness to share his knowledge with anyone who shows interest
10. His positive example to all he comes in contact with.
11. Kaleb has a desire to do good, in all he does.





Kaleb, I love you so much! Thank you for dealing with my shortcomings as a mother and for helping me become a better person! Your forgiveness, kindness, joy, and honesty do not go unnoticed!

Loves and hugs,

Mom