The Things Kids Say.

On a "date" with Kade tonight, I told him he was a great conversationalist. And that when he goes on dates someday, girls will like a guy who talks, and want to go out and do fun things, not just sit and be "blah".

To which Kade asked, "Like dad?"

hahaha. Love ya Joe!

The Tuff Kid Race

Before the Race -it was raining and pretty cold, but the boys didn't seem to notice. They were excited to be there.

Our awesome friend NQ (in the brown).

Ben crossing the finish line! He did it!

Kade cruisin' in to the finish.

They were super proud of their medal. I'm glad they felt successful and will be excited for the next time. I hope we can do this sort of thing regularly.

Today, we had the Tuff Kid Run, in St. G. Ben and Kade (along with their best friend N.) ran the "whole" way in the cold and rain. (It was 200 meters -next time we'll do the 1/2 mile.) They are no doubt "tuff" kids; they didn't seem to notice the weather at all. They were having a blast. Cami walked with the boys to the starting line, while I took the younger two back to the finish line to await the finishers and snap pictures! I admit I got teary eyed and choked up at seeing this herd of children run towards me, knowing that my boys were in that crowd somewhere doing something new and giving it their all. They did such a good job and finished strong they were pretty proud of themselves. I love getting the kids out to do these positive things and to have new experiences. My grandpa once said, "If you want smart kids, give them experiences." And that is so simple and so true. Yes, they run around all the time, but not in this setting and not with a goal in mind. (Today's goal was to run the whole way and never give up. They achieved it.) I had a great time and so did they. I plan to make this a family tradition!

Our Climber.

Normally, I don't run and get a camera when Carter is climbing something -usually I run to save him. But this wasn't so scary, and I was close to the camera. Carter climbs everything! EVERYTHING! He figures out ways to climb on top of counters, chairs, couches, bunk beds, and even the fireplace mantel! He is fearless and curious -a dangerous combination. ;) But, he's brave and determined -a great combination. We love this little guy and I am grateful -seriously- GRATEFUL that he can do these things. They are just constant reminders of the miracle Carter's recovery has been. There is barely anything that even hints at a brain trauma. Sweet boy. We love this little daredevil, climbing monkey boy. Although he's constantly freaking me out and causing me mild heart attacks, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Kade's FOUR!!!

Our Kade is FOUR! It's unbelievable. He has continued to grow into a smart, sweet and outgoing big boy. He's expressive and hilarious. He is easy to laugh and make jokes. Kade is a rough and tumble kid, and is does all things physical. He is one of the most social kids I know and has no shortage of friends. He is so good, and regularly talks about the Saviour and suggests and offers prayers to friends when they need help. He loves music and sings along with the radio and makes up his own songs for different situations. Kade is thoughtful and determined; when he sets his mind to something, he accomplishes it. We are so proud of this amazing boy. He keeps us laughing, as well as on our toes. He has added a lot of fun to our lives. We are more than grateful for our Kaderbum.

This year, his birthday was in the middle of the week, but because there was a holiday Monday, grandma was able to come and make Monday "Kade Day". Grandma, Kade and Ben woke up and went for breakfast and then to Walmart for a toy. Then we all went swimming for a couple hours. It was fun, but Kade thought he had drown, because he went under the water and the lifeguard had to "save" him. (long story). Afterwards, we came home and Kade took a short nap, then we went to Laser Tag and out for a pizza dinner. We let him open a couple of gifts from grandma -including a cool robot, boots and gloves.

Tues. he was Happy Helper at preschool, took cupcakes and juice for his treat. They talked about Kade's "All about Me" poster and he had a crown and spotlight on him all day.

Wednesday, his official birthday, we did cake and presents -a few books, an operation game, and a couple other things. Aunt Nattie later took him shopping for a toy; he picked an awesome transformer.

Kade had an extended birthday this year, and he deservesa little extra Kade time. It's not easy being in the middle.