Eight is Great

Josh celebrated his eighth birthday today and he enjoyed every second of it.  He came racing in my room this morning asking if he could open the big red present before everyone left for school and before Dad left for work.  We knew the evening was going to be busy, so he opened both his presents first thing this morning.

I am eight!

Heavy, heavy... (And boy was it heavy!)

Josh has been talking about wanting a Ripstik since he rode his friend's a few months ago.  He hasn't forgotten and every time anyone asked him what he wanted for his birthday he would tell them, "A Ripstik."  He never wavered.

Josh also got a set of Harry Potter Legos.  He wants to complete his Lego Harry Potter collection.  (Can you tell it was a little excited this morning?  Look at that face!)

Josh got ready for school super quick (minus combing his hair) so he could go outside and ride his Ripstik.  I was surprised to see how good he already was at riding it.

Look at him go!

Jaxon took a turn, but hasn't had as much experience on a Ripstik as Josh had.  He was a little wobbly.

After the craziness this evening brought with basketball, we sang Happy Birthday and had some cake.  It was a great and fun day!

Grandma and Grandpa Haacke gave Josh scriptures for his birthday.  (We celebrated November birthdays early because Grandma and Grandpa headed out of town for most of November to visit family.)  Josh loves his scriptures.  He even started reading them shortly after he received them.  He now looks forward to family scripture study each night just so he can use his new scriptures.


Eight Things We Love About Josh:

1. Josh is so animated.  We have so many pictures of him making some of the most animated faces.  His personality makes us happy.
2. Josh LOVES basketball.  He will watch Jimmer You Tube instructional videos and then go outside to the basketball court and practice what he learned.
3. Josh loves playing with his friends.  It isn't long that he is home from school before a friend is knocking on the door.
4. He is very thoughtful and kind.  He is always leaving me notes or pictures to brighten my day.
5. Josh loves to surprise me by emptying the dishwasher and then loading it with the dirty dishes in the sink.  He waits for me to discover his service and when I do, he can't hide his smile.
6. He loves school and does very well.  His teacher sings his praises every time I see her.
7. He gives great hugs.  One hug from him and your troubles melt away.
8. His prayers are so sincere.  If you are in need of some extra blessings, ask Josh to put you on his prayer list.  Every time he prays for me, I feel very humbled.

We love you Josh!  How blessed we are to have you for a boy.  You are so sweet and such a joy.  Thank you for always being so obedient and kind to others.  I am lucky to be your mom.  Happy Birthday!