Monday, December 6, 2010

300 Words or More

How many times in life were you asked to write an essay in "300 words or less"? (More about this later).
This is our oldest grandson, Bennet. He's an amazing young man -- loves life, adventure, his friends, music, drama. Last summer Bennet decided he wanted to be in the marching band, but he didn't play any instrument. So he decided that he would learn an instrument. He picked the great big sousaphone. He brought that thing home from school at year's end and practiced all summer long. At Thanksgiving we got to watch the Belmont/Watertown football game, and there was Bennet, marching in the half-time show. Did a great job.

During our Thanksgiving visit, Bennet also received his Eagle Scout Award. We're really proud of Bennet and the wonderful example he is for our ten grandsons. About a year ago while I was taking care of their family for a week Bennet said, "Grandma, I've got to go home teaching this afternoon." I asked who his companion was and he said it was his dad. But his dad was out of town?! He said, "Oh that's okay. We visit the Boston Temple President, and we have a standing monthly appointment, which is today. I can just take care of it myself this month." And he did.

At his Eagle Court of Honor they told a story about how Bennet invited a group of friends to come to his house to set off fireworks one July. They were having a wonderful time shooting off firecrackers at the intersection by their home when a policeman happened by. When the boys saw the police car they scattered and hid -- all but Bennet. He walked right over to the police car and talked to the officer. Everything worked out fine.
Last summer while we were in Boston Bennet had his 16th birthday. With the experience and maturity of being 16 come lots of changes and opportunities -- dating, driving, more freedom, later curfew. For his birthday, Bennet received a beautiful chair. This chair is positioned in his parents' bedroom, and whenever Bennet returns home after being out he is expected sit in his chair and report his adventures "In 300 words or More". Oh the tales this chair could tell!

We love you, Bennet. You're a fine young man making lots of good choices in life. So happy we could be with you for your court of honor. Keep soaring!

5 comments:

Buddy and Debi said...

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree or Grand-tree. We knew him when . . .

ellen said...

I think Bennet is one of the coolest kids ever. And he comes from cool families! I love the pillow. :)

Kristin said...

I had given up on you!! I don't read very many blogs these days, but I came to yours and discovered that you are back.

A belated welcome back to blogland.

Aprilyn said...

That pillow idea is so good. Congrats to your grandson. I hope Nate grows up to be just like him.

Mama Williams said...

Hi Judy,
I'm not sure you'll see this comment, but I'm glad your blog is open to readers again. I love this Chair idea and may just take it for my own in 3 years, when our oldest turns 16. Thanks for posting about it.
Julie