The Big 8 Years!

Ben had his 8th birthday last week!  At times, it seems just a moment ago that he was a newborn.  Other times, it was forever ago!  He has been asking for breakfast in bed for months and months.  Since he is often the first one up, we made him get BACK into bed for his breakfast.

The kids had a Primary activity in the moming.  I took my mom and sister to the John Johnson farm in Hiram, Ohio to see a church history site while they were gone.  Home for showers and Sunday clothes, then off to Ben's baptism into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints!!!

Andy and I went on a Friday night date and found these super cute dresses on clearance at Sears.  What sweet sisters they are.  They want to be just like Ben, and often follow him around just to be with him!

Thanks for coming Aunt Jamie, Grandma, and Grandpa Doerk!

Walking down the hall...towards our sweet 83 year old home teacher, Bro. Griffith.

The Maas Family

The baptism was just beautiful.  So many friends and neighbors came to support Ben.  He was beaming throughout the service.  Many many many thanks to all those who participated!!!!  Just after it ended, the rain came POURING down!  We served root beer floats (made with Blue Bell ice cream) and people hung around to visit (while waiting for the rain to slow down).  Then we went to Five  Guys for dinner!

Home for the long-awaited presents!  Ben has been asking for 3 years for a Nintendo DS lite.  Grandma told him when he turned 8.  He loves it; he just doesn't love all our parental restrictions!

Another fun gift - thanking dad for a really cool Nerf gun.  Ben was excited about that!  This is the first year that he got everything on his birthday list (also the first year he made a list)!  Happy Birthday, Ben!  Life is always exciting with you around!!!!