Dear Keaton,

Me and Jack had so much fun watching you at the Hershey Track Meet.  I admired your enthusiasm to run and participate, and I never heard you complaining once.   Even though you did not make the finals in any of your events, you had fun and I could tell that you truly tried your best.

Last week, we started a new thing at our house where you get to help me make dinner one night a week, and rotate with Sam and Emmi.  You got to do it first, and cooked us spaghetti, which we were all very impressed by.  I thought it would be more work for me than it would for you, and that I would be frustrated some time during it, but I wasn't.  You were so excited about it, which makes me happy.  I want all my kids to be good cooks before they leave home; It will help you so much in life. Of course, you didn't say much as we were working together in the kitchen, much like I hear from your school and piano teachers.  You have always been more quiet and reserved, and are continuing to be so.  I love to hear your cute laugh when your brothers and sister get you going, though.  When you do get hyper, you are a hard one to calm down.

Again, this year, you got Student-of-the-Month the very first month, and I even received a call from your teacher, Mrs. Ray,  just to tell me how much she appreciates you in her class.  Honestly, this did not surprise me at all, being the boy that you are.    

Just this morning I had the privilege of starting my fast with you.  I am so happy that for right now, you do this willingly, and actually remind me.  It is so special to kneel with you beside my bed, to ask you what you want to fast for, and then have me say the prayer.  I always feel the spirit so strong in our prayers together, and I can help but shed a few tears in that moment.  I am so grateful for the opportunity to fast with you, and feel of your sweet spirit.

I have to document that your new favorite food is BBQ ribs.  Your dad and I bought them on a whim since you and your brother love to eat chicken off the bone, we thought you might like these.  Sure enough, now you ask for them every week.  You still make us smile with your messy face after eating, whatever it be.  Sometimes, you come home from school with some sauce (I am guessing BBQ), smeared over one cheek, that must have been there from lunch.  Me and your dad get a kick out of it.  We love you so much Keaton, and are so proud of you. 

Love, Mom