SEVEN

Way back in May.....

I had to say goodbye to this 6 Year Old face...

Because this guy turned SEVEN!!

Happy Birthday Oliver!

(first year that he can really read all his own cards...pretty cool!)

We love being your family, Oliver!!

Of course he had to get a few slam dunks in with his new ball before heading off to school :)

With his birthday so close to Memorial Day, we've typically held his parties on the weekend, but we tried a new strategy this year and went for One Big Special Day- and got all the spoiling and sugar and gifts and  attention crammed into 12 fun-filled hours. And then it was over- and it was totally worth it.

I have to call in my secret weapon for days like this.

Since she was a tiny baby, she just has a gift for making everything better when she is around.

Party People

Is anyone really surprised? 

Reading of the Rules

Game Time!

Surrounded by SO much love. And sugar.

I know there is a trend to not open any gifts at a party anymore, but with the right group of kids, it can be such a precious experience.  These friends worked so hard on their cards for Oliver and you could tell that they felt special to him as he took the time to read each one. Not only is it satisfying for the friend who put consideration into the card and gift that was given, but I know that what he received that day meant more to him because he was able to associate it with the friend who had given it to him.   

Do these friends know you, or what?!!

Pep talk before a big game? ;)

My dear son, 

My wish for you this year

 is that you would somehow be able 

to begin to grasp 

just how much you are loved.

And to top it all off...

A phone call from Uncle Doh

And a beautiful duet with Auntie Emma before heading off to bed.

(my personal favorite moment of the day)