This week, I was startled to find out from my driving instructor that there are the beginnings of organised crime in Southport! Thirty children ranging from the ages of 12 to 20 have been causing havoc in the town centre: throwing bricks into passing cars' windows, destroying Victorian decorations, and sitting at the train level crossings on the tracks, causing roads to close. Then she told me that there is a huge drug problem in Southport--even in the high schools. One teaching assistant was even arrested recently for selling drugs to students! My stomach immediately started aching as I thought of all of the dangers that I will have to protect my perfect little innocent baby from in the future.
I realise that these types of things happen in bigger cities; but, this is Southport. These types of things are not supposed to happen in family-friendly seaside towns where many come to retire or to enjoy a safe, quiet life. After four years of living in Southport, I personally haven't seen the crime she mentioned--except for an incident of a group of ten-year-olds attempting to steal candy. So I guess it is possible to live in Southport and avoid encountering the criminals and 'yobs.'
But what happens when Jackson goes to school and has to fend for himself? When he has to make his own choices and has free time where Lee and I won't be there to guide him? I am hoping that he picks kind, responsible friends and that they have fun together, but avoid getting into trouble. It's a long time until Jackson will be in school, so I should probably stop worrying for now. I just want the best for Jackson and I don't want him to ever get into harm's way.
As in church, I'd like to make a prayer request: let's pray for all the children and that they stay safe, are ambitious in their aspirations, want to be kind and to do the right thing, and know how much they're loved. Of course I'm thinking of Jackson, but if we can show love and kindness to all children, hopefully they will see the world in a brighter light and have more self-worth, wanting to live the best life imaginable.
Fancy poses packed with personality
Enjoying the warmth and sunshine
Having a fun time in the jumperoo--this toy never gets old!
Reading his new pirate book in the ball pit
The moorhen ducklings standing on a stick
Big enough to sit in his Little Tikes garden centre and play on his own now
The heron's perch on the tiny island at our favourite pond
Developmental updates: Jackson started turning his hand around in circles and he does this when he wants to change his activity or to get our attention. He also started moving in circles while sitting. Using his fist as a pivot point, he shifts himself around to a new position on his play mat. He is still laughing a lot and is starting to be more ticklish. Today he ate beef for the first time which has luckily lulled him into a deep sleep. (It was nice to make one meal for the family that we could all eat together at the same time.) Jackson is developing his grip and has very strong hands. He (unfortunately) is very good at pinching and can snatch things very quickly. Today while he was waiting in his stroller to go to his friend Thomas's birthday party, he pulled the cupboard open and pushed it shut for the first time. Although these are early signs of him growing-up, I like how inquisitive and observant he is.
If you see Sammie Miles Davis, Jr. and Bella, give them my love.
