Soldier Steven

We had the privilege of driving to Fort Knox, KY and watching Daniel’s Uncle Steven graduate from Army Basic Training. We are so proud of him!

We arrived Wednesday night and stayed at the military campground in a nice cabin. Granny, Jed, Aunt Sarah, Aunt Lisa and Uncle Nate were also with us.

Thursday morning we went on to the base and walked into a gymnasium to see 218 of the most brave guys in the United States. After brief “instructions” on what the soldiers were and weren’t allowed to do, we were able to see Steven for the first time since July 8th.

He was allowed to leave the base for the day, but had to be back by 9:30 pm. We went to lunch and then went back to the campground for the rest of the day. It was great family time.

We took him back to the base early (so he’d have enough time to change!) and got to spend a few more minutes with him. They allowed the families to stay around and watch the formations of the platoons – hearing them chant the Soldiers’ Creed brought tears to my eyes. These guys look so young (most are 18 years old) and they have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedom.

Friday morning we went back to the base and sat in the stands as the soldiers did a ceremonial graduation. Just 15 minutes after it ended, Steven had to get on a bus and travel to Maryland for the next 17 weeks of training. We’re hoping that he’ll get some good leave time around the holidays!

It is impossible to describe how proud we are of him!!!

Update!

Yes, we have been busy. But that is no excuse for not giving you all an update!

At his 9 ½ month check up, he was 18 lbs 6 oz – finally up into the 12th percentile.

His head size grew to the 94th percentile!

The doctor said, “He sure is growing big brains!”

Daniel is crawling everywhere, sitting up from his stomach and pulling himself up to stand.

The day I caught him standing in his crib was awesome!

Except now he’ll only play with his toys for about 20 seconds before he is off going after a cord in the wall or the dog dish.

He grew up so fast this past month!