Alex's 11th Birthday

My oldest baby just turned eleven. Alex is just two short years from becoming a teenager and that terrifies me when I start thinking about it. This year we had more people over than usual. Alex begged and begged me to let him invite a couple of friends and so a few days before the party, I finally caved. He had two specific friends in mind and both of them got to come. He asked me for a Halo cake somewhere around summer-time. He's been really into that game for awhile so I wasn't surprised. I was hesitant to have to design this one as I really am clueless about that game. Luckily, Google didn't disappoint in finding an easy helmet to recreate. The big black things on the sides are some kind of gun from the game. Apparently I nailed it as he knew what they were when he saw the finished cake. To me, the look like the silhouette of Wolverin's claws. But whatever.

He really doesn't have much these days that he is into as far as toys. I can see the days of action figures and gallons of new toys slowly coming to an end. Nerf and Halo. That was pretty much it. But he wanted to be surprised for his present from us. So I got creative and decided to give him something we've been working towards for some time now. I found a really nice pocket knife with a cool shark on it. I let him open packages of soap and wood before the knife to totally confuse him. I think he thought it was because he stinks or something. He was super excited to see we upgraded him to a pocket knife. We will be learning how to use it safely by carving soap.

It was fun even though the day was supposed to be super rainy. It didn't rain during the party at least. We grilled hot dogs and all the kids ate and had a blast. I'm glad I let him have a couple of friends over. It kept them very distracted. And this year we had extras as Jeremy moved back home with his kiddos. Jake couldn't make it because his family was all sick. Tis the season. But Abby was happy that Audrina got to come with Nikki. It was a good day. Alex has grown into quite the fun kid. Other than his temper (genetics, I think), he doesn't seem to get into much trouble. He's a great student, kind kid, and loves his imagination. I'm super proud of the guy he's growing into. And he's not too far from outgrowing his mama. I figure he'll be taller than me by 14. But who knows? Happy Birthday Alex! We love you!

We had equal amounts of boys and girls.

Left to right: Wesley, Alex, Zach, Matthew, and Chase.