Gavin Ryker

11 birthday candles on his cake!!!

Happy Birthday Gavin Ryker Trickett! :)

 This sweet boy of mine is growing up right before my very eyes!!!

I think this hit me the hardest this week when Clint invited Gavin to join all of the boys for the

 Priesthood session of General Conference. 

 I wish you could have seen the look on his face...he couldn't believe that it was finally his turn to go!

(Even though the boys usually don't go until they turn 12, I think Clint was thinking ahead and realized that this opportunity needed to be taken NOW. 

There may only be a few short opportunities like this one for all of the boys to be together before Carew leaves to go on his mission next summer...oh man...)

I was lucky enough to get to join Gavin at his scout camp this summer too.

When I say "lucky" I really mean it.

Gavin is so special in the fact that he is a very good leader.

He is talented, yet humble.

He is kind and selfless and is a friend to everyone.

He is FULL of energy but still has the most tender disposition and sensitivity to the spirit.

You should hear his sweet prayers. 

So heartfelt and sincere...

Thank you for your example to me Gavin. :)

You are preparing well for the Priesthood that you will get to receive next year!

Look at what you are already learning...

A worthy priesthood holder arms himself spiritually every single day.

(Gavin at scout camp with mom, summer 2016)

A worthy priesthood holder keeps his sights set on the target of  the temple.

 (Gavin received his Arrow of Light, September 2016)

 A worthy priesthood holder doesn't "transform" to the world, but stays true to his spiritual DNA.

 (Dallin, Xaxton, and Gavin ~ Universal Studios California, June 2016)

A worthy priesthood holder knows that everyone can win when you work as a team!

 (Gavin's undeafeted Jr. Jazz team, 2016)

A worthy priesthood holder recognizes, develops, and refines all of his God given gifts and talents. 

(Dallin, Gavin, and Kambriella's piano recital ~ March 2016)

A worthy priesthood holder stands for what's right and is a defender of truth.

(At  Riverton Music, piano recital)

A worthy priesthood holder values education and prepares to be a provider for his own family one day.

(Gavin as Rod Carew ~ 4th grade wax museum, May 2016)

A worthy priesthood holder loves and honers eternal families and the temple.

 (Provo City Center Temple open house)

A worthy priesthood holder knows that there is safety and protection from the "Rock of our Redeemer."

 (Gavin and Kambriella in St. George, Ut. Spring Break 2016)

A worthy priesthood holder invites others to enjoy that safety and protection too...

 (Hiking, exploring, and cave finding :)

A worthy priesthood holder provides love and support to his family.

(Gavin and new baby sister Kesslyn Natalia...Fall 2015)

 A worthy priesthood holder is happy!

(4th grade Mini Mall ~ Kendama holders made by Gavin :)

A worthy priesthood holder seeks "Living Water."

 (Newport Beach, June 2016)

A worthy priesthood holder works hard and helps others.

 (Gavin and big brother Carew digging for treasure :)

A worthy priesthood holder recognizes God's hand in his life.

 (Carew, Dallin, and Gavin found their treasures :)

A worthy priesthood holder recognizes blessings as numerous as sands of the sea...

 (Beach house vacation with cousins, 2016)

A worthy priesthood holder knows where to turn to ask for help.

A worthy priesthood holder loves and lifts others.

(Swimming in the back yard! Kierra's graduation day and Kambriella's 7th birthday party.)

A worthy priesthood holder "looks long" to see eternal goals.

 (Frisbee with dad, Newport Beach 2016)

 A worthy priesthood holder finds peace and happiness in "holding to the rod."

(Carew, Gavin and Dallin ~ Balboa Pier, Newport Beach 2016)

Dear Gavin, my gentle giant...

You are growing so fast that you may be taller than your brothers one day!!!

You may be the younger brother, but so was Nephi...

 Your strong spirit is easy to see...continue to be a kind and loving leader both in your family and with your friends and you will be an amazing worthy priesthood holder one day as soon as you are old enough!

I LOVE YOU!!!

:)