Eli Taylor turns TWELVE!

Another big birthday happened in the Geertsen family. Eli Taylor Geertsen turned twelve! His actual birthday fell on the last school day before we headed out of town to sunny St. George. We were all anxious to feel some warm sun!
Because we would be leaving directly after school he woke to some mini cinnamon rolls and muffins for breakfast instead of a cake! And donuts to take to his sixth grade class. His last year bringing a school treat to class.

The kids all gathered around to watch Eli open his goods before heading off to school.

Eli is trying to show twelve digits. It's getting more tricky!

After school we packed quickly and made great time down to the warmth of southern Utah. It was great to relax and play for a few days. And celebrate everything we LOVE about Eli!

Eli was having fun and playing until I started snapping pics. I think it made him self-conscious and he came and sat down next to me. He's still so much a fun, energetic kid at heart!

He kind of couldn't wait to get back and get started on his Lego's waiting for him.

Eli was ordained a Deacon and left Primary. It's a real treat to have him at mutual and watch him serve the sacrament. He has really been looking forward to all of it. He takes collecting fast offerings very seriously and was a little too thorough his first Fast Sunday. We almost sent Adren to find him when we were waiting for an hour and a half after church to eat. They had paired him with another fresh Deacon, they are just days apart. Adren was able to show him the ropes and explain the map better and he's since gotten the hang of it.

This boy! Eli continues to be sweet, sensitive, he is very smart and doing great in school. He has lots of friends and is a good friend to others. He still spends most of his time off on his bike or penny board, comes in the house all red-cheeked and out of breath to grab a slice of bread and he's off again. He gives the best hugs. He always has. Sometimes he just comes up to me and hugs me and I don't ever want to let him go. Eli is very special and I am so grateful I know him and that he is a part of our family!