The Big 1-2

Kids love birthdays.  They always eagerly anticipate their next birthday even if it is 6 months, 2 months or 2 weeks away.  They love to tell people it is their birthday and that it is going to be their birthday.  Heck, kids love other people's birthdays.  I think that is why we as parents often put so much effort into a birthday celebration for our kids.  We know they will LOVE it!

So isn't it great when someone other than their parents acknowledges a child's birthday?

At our church, turning 12 is a big milestone.  At this age you "officially" advance from Primary (the program for young children) and into the Youth program (for 12-18 year olds.)  This is something that every 11 1/2 year old eagerly awaits, counting down the days until they can join Young Men's or in Ashley's case, Young Women's. 

Of course, the leaders and teachers in Primary, put on a brave face and wish their new 12 year olds good-bye, trying not to take the child's eager enthusiasm to leave their class behind too personally :)  These teachers are good sports and do everything they can to be excited and help celebrate.  As Ashley leaves Primary, I know I am grateful for all the teachers she has had over the years, beginning when she was 18 months old.  She has had a lot of faithful and loving men and women teach her for two hours every Sunday.  I am so grateful to each of them for their service and influence in her life...they have helped her to be the darling girl that I love very much.

As a part of the Primary program, each child can work on certain activities and goals and earn their Faith in God Award.  They do this at home, at church, and for girls, in a special group called Activity Days.  It takes about 3-4 years to complete the requirements and I'm glad to say that Ashley did receive her award!

On Ash's last day with Activity Days, they had a swimming party and in honor of her birthday, she and I made a special "cake" to celebrate.

This is a three-tiered Rice Krispy cake.  So easy, yummy and cute!!  The bottom layer is regular flavored, the middle is chocolate mint and the top is Fruity Pebbles, then we decorated with Cocoa Pebbles and fruit snacks.

Ashley has also had some great Activity Days leaders.  These ladies are women that Ashley truly feels connected to.  Again, I am so thankful to them and appreciate their patience, creativity, and ability to remember to take pictures and share them with the mother (me) who always forgets!