The Guys’ Club

My grandnephew, Jaxon Killinger has had a pretty busy summer!! The family, Jaxon, his dad Chris, stepmom Lacey, and sister Brooklyn have been doing a lot of camping, and Jaxon absolutely loves it. This year, while they were camping over the 4th of July, both Jaxon and Brooklyn caught their first fish!! They were so excited about that. Of course, another highlight of the 4th of July camping trip was setting off fireworks with his dad. Like most boys, setting of fireworks is a big deal, and rather a right of passage when they are allowed to be anywhere near that process. They feel grown up, and a part of the “Guys’ Club” when they are there. Jaxon is no different. As he gets older, he is quickly becoming more a young man than a little boy. Afterall, this is the year that Jaxon hits the all important double digits, i.e. 10 years old. Congratulations Jaxon!!

Jaxon has put some milestones behind him, such as setting off fireworks and catching a fish, but he also has another pastime that he enjoys…catching crawdads with his dad. Of course, the most important part of this pastime is to see if he can catch more of them than his dad. Another important part of catching crawdads is, of course, eating them. I don’t think I could get past the way they look, but to each his own. Crawdads (also called crayfish, crawfish, or mudbugs) are a Louisiana staple known for their light, sweet flavors, and it’s so easy to get to the edible parts inside the shells. Apparently you have to twist off the head, suck out the juices, peel and eat the tail meat. Again, I don’t think I’ll be trying this apparent delicacy, but I’m not one to judge those who do. Bon appétit!!

Jaxon got to go to Denver this last weekend, and he rode some pretty scary rides at Eliches. That is really another rite of passage for kids, I think. First being tall enough to ride the more scary rides is a big milestone. Then being unafraid to ride such rides is another way of showing one’s maturity. Finally, getting off the ride and not getting sick is a big plus. That part is the reason I don’t do the carnival rides anymore, haha!! Jaxon also love, love, loves basketball and loves all things Michael Jordan!! I can see that. Michale Jordan has been a kid-favorite for years now, and the adults love him too. Most of Jordan’s career was with the Chicago Bulls, and he finished up with the Washington Wizards. That is about the extent of my knowledge of Michael Jordan…sorry Jaxon.

As with many kids his age, Jaxon is very into dirt biking and really wants a new one for his birthday. Of course, we all know how expensive they are. Stay tuned to see if that dream was realized. Whether it is or isn’t this birthday, there is always next year, and in the meantime, Jaxon will continue to improve and hone his skills on the bike he currently has, because his love of dirt biking is strong and healthy. Today is Jaxon’s 10th birthday. Happy birthday Jaxon!! Have a great day!! We love you!!