Jacob is 12!

Jacob's birthday was April 28 - my BIG boy turned 12. He proudly tells me he's almost as tall as me - he's 5'2" - yeah, OK, 5 more inches to go, buddy. And he's even more proud that he can now beat me in an arm wrestle! Wow - that's pretty sad - doesn't say much for my state of physical fitness. AND Sarah can beat me in arm wrestling too, while we're at it. Sheesh!!!

Well, Jacob is very excited to be 12 now, to be graduated out of primary (kid's stuff, Mom) and to be a Deacon. Very cool. He's looking forward to passing the sacrament this Sunday, with his dad right there by his side. I'm so proud of him - I think he is the greatest kid a mom could ask for (yes Sarah, I think that of all my kids). And it is truly a blessing and a joy to be his mom.

Jake is obedient and good. He has no desire in him to be rebellious or take risks, to see what he can get away with. Jake is kind, gentle, and affectionate. He is so sweet with little Sammy and Carissa. And he loves his mom and gives me random hugs throughout the day, just because he feels like it! He makes me want to be a better person, just knowing him, and I am so grateful to Heavenly Father for sending him to me. Jake keeps me on the straight and narrow. He won't let me swear or speed! He makes sure I always follow traffic laws, and informs me on a regular basis he's going to be a REALLY good driver, and I won't have to worry about letting him drive at 16. OK kid, we'll see. (Actually, I have no doubt he will be an excellent driver)

Anyway, we had a fun birthday for Jake. He wanted a chocolate cookies and cream pie instead of cake and chili dogs for dinner. The kids were beside themselves with joy - I never buy hot dogs but I did for Jake's chili dogs. We went bowling which the kids thought was a blast. Everyone but Rissa bowled, even Sam Sam, and of course tiny Sammy came in second, behind Daddy! Dang, I wish I had remembered to bring my camera to the bowling alley. Watching him put the big ball down on the lane, and push it as hard as he could was so adorable, then he'd just stand there and watch the ball as it traveled down the lane. So cute.

Last Sunday, on Mother's Day, Jacob was ordained a Deacon by his dad. Everyone that was able to come, did, and we had such a nice day with the family. Mom and Dad, Jim and Marie, Lily and Adam, Anne, Melissa, Bonnie, David, Emily. We have such an awesome family, and I am so thankful for the love and support they show the Hurlberts.

This is what our living room looked like, after church and after we had wolfed down some tasty lunch. Steven, Jim, Dad, and Adam all passed out!