Ashton- 11

Ashton turned 11 in October.  It is funny to me, how for the most part, a baby's personality stays pretty consistent into childhood and so far into the double digit years.

He sits like a bird... perching... all the time.

Ashton with his loot.

Birthday brownies with homemade ice cream

Ashton is opinionated, strong-willed, mouthy, and a leader.  He takes life by the reigns and loves to be in the front to be first player to be the lead.  So far, at school, this has worked in his favor.  His teachers see him as proactive and responsible and a work horse.  His peers see him as a someone they should follow and listen to.

Charlee and Ashton''s Jr Beta Club Induction 

The boys... Bennett is pouting

At home though, oh at home.  He is in the middle of every little argument.  Even arguments he has no business being in!  He can get a reaction out of every single person and being in our house!  Even Moses will occasionally low growl at him when Ashton just keeps pestering him.  It really is a gift.

Example of Ashton bothering Moses.  Ashton kept taking Moses' toy and slinking it around.  Finally,  Moses pinned Ashton down.  He would not allow Ash to get up.  This went on for about 3 minutes.

My prayer for Ashton is two-fold.

1- Be Humble.  Apart from the grace of God, we are nothing.  Ashton has been given much and the Lord will require much.  I pray Ashton will realize his depravity apart from a gracious Savior.  I love seeing Jesus work in Ashton.  Though apologizing his hard for him, I see the Holy Spirit working it out in him.

2- To know when to stand up and when to lay low.  Whether at home or school or work, I pray Ashton will have wisdom and when to fight and when to lay it down.

Ashton, I love you.  You are doing so well in school.  It makes me laugh how much of a dumb blonde you are though.  This is one of those times I wish I had recorded some of the hysterical things you thought that were just not right.  You have had us rolling on numerous occasions this past year.

My skinny blonde baby!

May this next year lead you closer to Jesus.  Focus on Him and His path for you.

Happy Birthday
~Mom