D.A.R.E. graduation

Caleb had his D.A.R.E. graduation on Monday night. His school is blessed with a great D.A.R.E. officer who really cares about the kids and it shows in countless ways.

The kids got their D.A.R.E. diplomas and a few got to read essays they had written about staying drug-free. Caleb was hoping to read his essay and was disappointed that his wasn't chosen. But there was a BIG surprise in store for him (and for us.) At the end of the ceremony, the D.A.R.E. officer announced that the fifth grade teachers had selected a boy and a girl from each classroom that they considered to be role models and leaders. Guess what?! Caleb's teacher had selected him as the boy from her class. He was totally shocked and embarassed when he went on stage to get his certificate. I know he was thrilled and I was so happy for him that I started crying. Mom and Dad were with me and Mom was crying too. I know - we're total goofballs but it was so cool.



We tracked down Caleb, his teacher, and the D.A.R.E. officer after the ceremony. I had to get pictures and I had to say thank you. I can't even express how it felt to watch Caleb get that kind of recognition. Yes, I was proud, but mostly I was just happy to see him grinning and laughing.



Conner was pretty excited for her brother too. But she was more excited about the new shoes that she got. Pink and blue and green, kind of tattered looking. I swear she doesn't get shoe fever from me. Really! I swear! (I'm such a liar!)