I've missed a few birthdays/months/years! Life has gotten so busy, I'm not taking the time to sit down and do the simple things much anymore. Kind of sad, really. When the boys were little I looked forward to this time in my life, where they'd all be in school, thinking things would be less hectic and easier. Well, the boys are more independent and that makes things a bit easier. But I keep making myself so busy with volunteer opportunities that I'm more busy than I've ever been. I've been sick the last few days and I know it's because I just haven't given myself any down time lately. So, I've got to re-prioritize my time and starting taking more time to smell the roses.

Birthday's I've missed... Kaleb turned 12 in August. This is a huge birthday for boys in the LDS church. He was blessed to be given the Aaronic Priesthood so he can start to show leadership and begin his journey into manhood. It's been so wonderful to watch this amazing young man step up into the roll he chose to take on. He is currently the 2nd counselor in the Deacons quorum and learning his Priesthood duties well. Among all the reasons William and I love Kaleb here are 12 specific reasons:

This is a picture of Kaleb at his 4th birthday

1. His willingness to serve others
2. His desire to please the Lord
3. His ability to watch after his brothers and become our "babysitter" even though none of the boys are babies. :)
4. How quickly he can get a task done if he puts his mind to it
5. What a great heart he has
6. His ability to do anything he really wants to do
7. He is so welcoming to new friends and is a very devoted friend
8. How easily he picks up sports
9. His smile and laugh...they're contagious
10. His natural ability to lead others (good or bad)
11. He is very passionate about things he loves or desires
12. He truly shows empathy for others and cares for them deeply.

It's amazing to have a 12 year old in the house already. He is so excited to become a teenager, but I'm not sure I'm ready...I guess only time will tell. He's already over half way there, and things are looking good so far.

 I'm going to post this and catch up the rest hopefully sooner than later. Remember that God is good, and all things happen for a very good purpose and reason.