Cub Scouts

On Friday Archer earned his Wolf Scout badge. I have to admit that when Archer wanted to join scouts I wasn't too excited. We DID give him the choice between Awana (at church) and Scouts (at a different church), so when he chose scouts we had to follow through with it. But its on a different night than Awana (Shelly's program) and a different place. So instead of one night of taxi driving, I have two. And scouts requires more parent involvement. And it costs more. Do you like my complaining?

It turns out that scouts is SO GOOD! Archer loves it, he's proud of his accomplishments, he's learning a lot of really great things (how to use hand tools, how to take care of himself and stay clean and healthy, how to be a responsible citizen... the list of greatness goes on). I sort of groan inwardly once a month when I have to stay for the Pack meetings, Awana never makes the parents stay. I dislike the $2 dues every week, but Archer's taken that on and earns money so he can pay his own way. And on Friday they had the Blue and Gold Banquet where we all brought a dish and enjoyed some awesome food together. Archer earned his Wolf badge which was a LOT of work for our entire family, but SO worth it. I am so proud of him. And we had a great time at the banquet. One of my favorite parts was the prayer before the meal. Ok, Scouts is not supposed to be exclusively Christian, but I was happily surprised when the leader PRAYED before our meal, and not some generic, "We're thankful for our food..." he actually said "Father... In Jesus Name, Amen." LOVE THAT!

In addition to Archer earning his award, I was so proud of Arch and Shell as they quietly listened to what each of the leaders said about their dens and what the other boys had accomplished. They were so attentive. Elijah wasn't, but that was ok, he was still quiet. And he entertained the little section of moms and grandmas around us, making the rounds giving hugs first just to me, then to a grandma nearby, then another mom, just back and forth. He was so precious.

Guess what? My kids make me so proud. Despite my attempts to completley ruin them, despite being ME short tempered and selfish, they are generous and usually patient with each other and those around them. These three little people are truly a joy to be around. I really wish I could just bottle up the memories and feelings I have from that evening with my family and keep them forever. I guess that's why I write instead. Thanks for listening to my proud ramblings...