A couple of weeks ago I got a call from one of the counselors from Blake's school.  He said that Blake had been chosen by his teacher as the Goodwill Ambassador for his class.  He explained that the Goodwill Ambassador Awards are given every year and kept a surprise from everyone except for the parents of those kids chosen.  The awards are given to the kids who exemplify the Seven Army Core Values: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.  Each teacher chose 1 kid (some an additional kid) from their class that they thought possessed those values.  I'm working on getting the page Blake's teacher wrote about him.  She said, among other things, that he was always prepared for class, never had a bad word to say about anyone, always helped people, and showed respect to everyone.  We were able to go for the award ceremony with the 2 younger boys.  Blake was surprised that we were there and we could tell he had no clue!  It's so good to know that the things we are trying to teach him stay in his head.  The counselor said this, "It's a direct reflection of the great job you all are doing as parents."  What a compliment!!  

The reward, besides being recognized in front of the whole school, was a field trip!  All the kids went to a nursing home in Enterprise, AL and spent time with the people there.  Blake said they were able to help serve them lunch.  Then they went to a pizza place, The Mellow Mushroom, to make their own pizzas.  Followed by a trip to the Fun Zone for skating, bouncy houses, and general good fun!

As Blake was walking in with his class.  

Mr. Pridgen, the counselor

22 kids in all.  5 kids from our ward.  What an example they set for their peers!

A short reception was held after the ceremony, complete with cake and cookies.  James enjoyed it.  :)

Cheese!

Blake and his friend Caden.  Same class at school AND church.  

Tate enjoyed it too.  

Blake liked the Skittles best.