Jackson is 8 years old

Jackson has come so far in the last year of his life.

When he was about 3-4 yrs. old he had a really hard time leaving my side. He has always been somewhat apprehensive when it comes to new things ...... going to primary or school.

I remember very clearly a time when he and I talked about his concerns. We had a few baby birds in the backyard that we were keeping our eye on. We knew they had just hatched because we heard them every morning chirping like baby birds do. I watched Jack anaylze this from his perspective. He would be concerned about them and why they were doing this. I told him that their Mother was probably gone getting some food and they missed her. He totally could relate. Well, these birds grew like birds do and one day they were starting to fly away from the nest. One of the birds fell to the ground and this caused some concern for Jack. What would he do? Could the bird get up and fly from where it was?

I know that Heavenly Father put that small little experience in our path for Jack!

I drew upon that when the time was right. We talked a lot about those birds. He understood because he had seen the birds.

This last Sunday was our sacrament meeting program. Jack 2 years ago wouldn't have anything to do with being apart of it. Jack knew that he would do it this time. I knew he would. Sunday he got up and said his part. The look on his face as he was walking down the steps after completing his part, was priceless. It's what every Mother wants for her child -- Hard things bring about a great sense happiness. He was beaming!

Inside he was saying "I did it"!

By small things, great things are brought to pass. For sure. As the years have passed since those tiny birds came, I have seen him use his wings to start flying. I love watching him, encouraging him, and cheering him on that he can do it.

That's what being a Mother is all about. I love being his Mother.

He was in 7th heaven with his gift.

We had our annual Porter Halloween party prior to his recieving this scooter. So..... That is why he is dressed in his costume. I promise he really didn't break his arm or hurt his head on this new scooter.

He said, "Hey Mom, get me doing a weelie". I got it.

Favorite things about Jack:

-Sensitive

-Kissable

-always telling me how much he LOVES me

-the best laugh : finds humor in much

-never needs to be asked to get his chores done

-favorite place to go is Barnes and Noble - loves reading

-has several hiding spots throughout the house for....(money, chapstick, trinkets, and even cookies from mom)

-great story teller

-can mimic "Gilly"

-is the reminder of all things good......we need to read our scriptures, say a prayer, get more milk, eat good, wash my clothes now, and yes, you do still need to snuggle with me at night.

We love him so!!!!