Well, we have officially joined the Cub Scouting world. Tonight was the pack celebration, and though James was feeling like death warmed over from a flu shot he had at work this week, since he's a den leader, we pretty much had to go. I'm so thankful we did. One of the main reasons we joined Cub Scouts this year, beyond the fact that James loved scouts as a boy, and knew lots about the skills and values it teaches, was to give Isaac and James something special to share, without a certain little sister always being involved. Isaac doesn't complain really about Abigail's constant presence, but now that he's getting older, it is something we realize does matter - he needs an identity outside of being her big brother, and due to her extremely social personality, sometimes that doesn't always happen. He is an introvert, and that's o.k., but he also chooses to let her monopolize conversations and events at times, since it's just easier than competing. James and I have noticed more and more how he responds when she's around, and how different he is when she's not, and we know he needs to develop more confidence. So far, we are very excited at his eagerness to participate in Cub Scouts, and being part of the Wolf Den 8 tonight at the ceremony was really a very special event. He received his neckerchief and slide, which is part of advancement and acceptance into the Wolf Pack, and it's a big deal...I'm not too up on my scouting info, and am amazed at how seriously these families take advancement and awards - in a good way. There was such a lot of applause and cheering and all around fun to honor these boys and it really was heartwarming. Isaac would be happy in the background in a crowd, almost all the time, and so when he stood up with his pack to receive his neckerchief, and was so proud, I just almost cried. It was an awesome moment. He wanted pictures taken when we got home, and you'll see from the slides, he wasn't satisfied till we had an all-out photo shoot, even getting Mom and Abi involved.
I can't explain how happy it makes us to see him glowing with satisfaction, and to gladly wear his uniform. I'm also glad James is willing and eager to share this experience with him, and know it means a great deal to Isaac to be able to brag, "My DAD is my leader!!" By the way, James' fever broke during the meeting, and he feels a ton better now, so thanks to those of you who were praying!!
