Just Braggin'

So my Grandpa always says that every crow thinks their baby crows are the blackest. So true. With that being said, I want to brag about my oldest for a minute. We have had our share of struggles with this precious child. Remember the orange ticket fiasco? Ah, who could forget. And then there was this past October when he was almost kicked out of school. After a spontaneous meeting with the principal, school counselor, his teacher and myself, Dude completely turned things around. And by completely I mean a total 180. He was nominated for student of the month this month!!!!!! At his school there is only one student of the month per grade, so this is a huge honor. Especially for having been almost kicked out a few months ago. He has been doing so great!
I also had the pleasure of helping out at his school Christmas party. They did a gift exchange and he received a gift from a little boy in his class that has downs syndrome. After the exchange the little boy came up to him and Dude said, "Thanks for the present, this is so awesome!" Then the little boy said, "That's mine!" Dude said, "Oh, your right, here go put it in your back pack so it doesn't get lost." It was so sweet and selfless.
And then last Sunday we were asked to fast and pray for some family members. When I shared the situation with the kids, Dude immediately volunteered to fast. When I went to wake him up so he could get ready for church, he was already dressed and kneeling at the side of his bed in prayer. (So not normal! He is usually a bear in the morning!) I saw him several times that morning bowing his head in silent prayer.
He has provided some amazing mommy moments for me, and I'm so grateful. I love all my children, and they are ALL wonderful. I am truly blessed.