I have been really wanting to blog about something that happened back in December. I want to call it Joey is Growing up, or Joey's big week-end. It is a bittersweet thing when your kids start growing up. I guess it is probably more-so with Joey because he is my baby....but wow.

It all started with several weeks of grueling karate boot camps. Now, I know that karate boot camp isn't really boot camp but for a nearly twelve year old to get up at 7am on a Saturday morning for six weeks in a row and run, push, kick and etc for three and half hours is really grueling. Seriously. And for whomever gets to experience it with him...well...it can be grueling too. But...we did it. He did it. I was really proud of him. It was his most difficult belt test up to this point. He is one away from earning his black belt. They were strict this time. They ran in the snow, ice and cold. They didn't cut them any slack. I think he appreciated this belt more because it was harder. He worked hard...he earned it....it was his twelfth birthday.

The next day was Sunday and everyone came for his ordination. My little guy was made a deacon. Everyone came over after church for dinner. It is always my favorite thing to have Sunday dinner with family. No matter where we are, family dinner is my favorite. I am so grateful for a loving and supportive family. It was a big day.

After dinner we were sitting and visiting, as usual, when my daddy started telling a story about when he learned that Santa wasn't real. I wanted to die right then. It was too late. He was too far into the story when I realized what was going to happen. Joey got a sick look on his face. I did too. So I guess you figured it out. My sweet little Joey boy still believed in Santa. He has started asking lots more questions lately, but still, he believed. I know it is crazy...most kids know the truth by this age but Joey is a unique kid. I think because his next closest sibling is ten years older he is an interesting combination of youthful naivete and precocious maturity. He didn't say anything right away, but after everyone had left I was laying on the couch and a very somber Joey came close and asked, "Mom, Santa isn't real, is he?". I really felt sad. I opened my arms and he came and snuggled into me and instantaneous tears started fast and furious....his AND mine. We shared a tender time and as he was there crying I realized my little guy IS really growing up.

It is easier....sure....it is easier to do Christmas when everyone knows the truth...but sheesh....I miss, really miss the magic. I was really worried how I would be able to get the things Joey might ask Santa for...that problem was solved...

I'm proud of my kids. They are all really cool people that I would love for friends even if they weren't my kids. They help me so much! They teach me so much! They are unique, interesting, intelligent and funny. They all really pitch in and help and I am so grateful for them.