Jeff's Journey: November 2008

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Jeff the Rock Climber

Yeah, you heard me right. I went rock climbing today!! Man, it was so much fun and I had a great time. Clay and I went with Common Grounds (a recreational group for people with disabilities, from Logan, Utah). They have all kinds of adaptive equipment for people like me to use, so I can do things I might not otherwise be able to do. We went to an indoor climbing place called the Rock House. At first I didn't really know what to do. But after a while, I caught on and there was no stopping me. I made it all the way to the top - about 75 feet up!!! Boy was I tired when we finished. I can hardly wait to go again! ME, ROCK CLIMBING!!!!! I was so proud of myself.

Halloween Fun

I had a GREAT time on Halloween! I dressed up as a Chick Magnet and everyone really liked my costume. Mom & Dad went with me to the 'trunk or treat' at Church. I got lots of candy and had lots of fun there. Then we went to visit Arda Smith. Her house is the best in the world during Halloween. Everyone goes to visit her on Halloween because she goes all out decorating her house. (Well, she's 88 now, so her kids and grandkids do all the decorating for her.) It takes them 2 weeks to put everything up. Sorry we didn't get a picture of her house, but here's some of me as a 'chick magnet'

Front view

Front view

Back view

The Pumpkin Walk

Clay and I went to the Pumpkin Walk in Logan. I had lots of fun. Here are some pictures of me being silly.

Dad The Builder continues . . .

A couple of days after the last pictures were posted, Mom, Dad and I worked on the shed again. My job was to sit in a chair and 'supervise'. Mom's job was to keep her mouth shut, hold the panels, and let Dad yell at her. Dad's job was to build and be boss. He does both of these things very well, as he's had lots of experience. At the end of the day this is what the shed looked like.

The next day, Dad, put the roof on the shed. And this is how the shed looks finished!

Note From My Mom

As Jeff's Mom, I feel so very blessed to have this choice young man to love, care for and serve daily. He is a delight and has been my greatest JOY and CHALLENGE rolled into one terrific young man. Jeff has touched more people and overcome more in his short life than most people do in a lifetime. What an example and inspiration he is. He is my mentor, my hero, my teacher. I truly believe Jeff is one of those special spirits that was sent here just to teach others. I know he certainly has taught me what's most important in this life. He has taught me so much and continues to do so daily. Because of Jeff, and wanting to help him grow to be the best he can be, I feel I have probably gained the equivalent of an honorary degree in medicine, education and law. At times it's been extremly hard, and at times it's been much easier. But I can truthfully say, it's been worth every tear I've shed, every ache in my heart, every fight I've had to fight. The smiles, the laughter, the love, and the strength of my son have made it all worthwhile. I am so grateful and thankful to my Heavenly Father for the blessing of this choice young man!