Happy Birthday!

Marcus turned 12!  This is a big deal if you're a Mormon.  This means he's old enough to receive the Aaronic Priesthood and he is also old enough to participate in the Young Men's program for the boys 12-18 years of age.  Because it's such a big deal we had both sets of grandparents here to celebrate which is why I've neglected the blog with an update.  Things have been crazy!  {Plus, I had to finish a book for book group tonight so everything has been put on hold.}
So my son is twelve.  I'm feeling more middle-aged every time I think about him.  He has a cell phone, a social life, and experienced the disappointment of birthdays not being as magical as they were when he was young.  Oh, the pains of growing up and outgrowing toys! I couldn't get this boy to commit to having a party with some friends {he wanted a boy-girl party and of course I said no}, or to even decide on a birthday cake.  He'd just shrug and grunt.  Really, this kid already acts like a teenager but we love him anyway.

Riding off on his brand new bike that's probably worth more than Randy's car, although that's not saying much

The candles are adding up

gathering before church to discuss the Priesthood ordination (and his friend Libby joined us so she could rehearse a musical number)

Marcus reading his priesthood line of authority that can be traced back to the Savior

Looking all spiffy in his new clothes and discussing the logistics of passing the sacrament with his friend

Hooray for Marcus!

We sat around the table eating his birthday dinner of choice {spaghetti and meatballs} and everyone said something they admired about Marcus.  "He's a great leader, good example, responsible, eats candy more than any person on the planet, makes us laugh, and has good hair" were a few things mentioned.  We love you, Marcus!