Army Party!!

Avery's idea for his 7th birthday was to have an Army Party in the backyard.  At first we didn't know what to think about his request.  Lately all he wants to do is play Nerf guns or super soaker wars with his neighborhood friends in the backyard so we tried to convince him to invite a few friends for laser tag, gametown pizza or inflatable world.  Nope, he said Army or nothing... so we took a deep breath and said alright, time to get creative!


In the matter of 2 weeks we were able to put together a party for the boys that they will remember for a long time.  To hear the kids say "this is the best party ever" and see Avery's huge smile throughout the day is all we needed. 

Wade was the best basic training instructor ever!  He had those kids doing all kinds of exercises including a timed obstacle course that was a huge hit!

 Here's an early pic at the start of the party.  The hay bales were perfect for the obstacle course.

Our recruit!

 Dad, Evan and Ella against 12 kids... with Nancy's help the kids were victorious!

Avery with his long time friend Brandon and his brother, Tanner

On his actual birthday which was a Wednesday, we celebrated with a cookie cake and pizza with Aunt Stephers and Uncle Andy.  Grandma and grandpa were also with us via Skype.

Ella's 1st "Friend" Birthday Party

Avery and I took Ella to her 1st birthday party for a friend at ArtWorx in San Antonio.  She was so excited to carry Katie's present into the party and although cautious at first, she spread her wings and had a great time. 
 
I just love it when they hold hands. 

 Ella stayed close to her brother and followed his every move.

Once they showed the kids what to do at each station and let them loose, the creative wheels started turning. 

I love how hard she was concentrating on her work.  (Just like Avery used to do, she sticks out her tongue when she's working hard.)  Thanks for such a great time Jenkins family!

Pool is Open

Oh my, last week it was Spring and this week Summer is here! That's ok, the neighborhood pool is open as of April 1st so you know where to find us every weekend when we're home. The kids got some practice a few weeks ago swimming in Aunt Shelly's hot tub. No need to turn on the heat anymore, Mother Nature has it covered. Have a wonderful Easter weekend everyone!

Champion Award

Avery received an award for perfect attendance for the 3rd 9 weeks of his 1st grade year and also the Champion Award from his teacher Mrs. Morris.  The Champion Award is given to 1 boy and 1 girl each nine weeks who displays all the qualities of being a "champion" such as a good leader, respectful and helpful to others, etc.  We couldn't be more proud of this young man.  It was a rocky start for everyone when Avery was moved into Mrs. Morris's class after the first few weeks of school due to overcrowding.  It goes to show that everyone did a lot of growing over the past few months and I am not surprised that Avery was able to win her over with his charm.  Her statement about seeing him as a 30 year old questioning things in a 6 year old body couldn't be more true. 

Yay Avery!

Catching Up

I can't believe it's already mid March and this is my 1st post in 2012! Spring is here and I like to think it's not only my favorite time of year; trees and flowers are budding and when the sun is shining it is almost hot outside (mid 70's!). It's hard not to want to spend every minute you can outdoors. This week is Spring Break which means that daddy is home with the kiddos, showing them a great time. As always, I wish I could be with them at the park, exploring San Antonio and the surrounding areas. Look at how much fun they are having! Over the past couple weeks Avery has discovered neighborhood friends, lots of them! Every day after school he can't wait to go outside and play, running up and down the street from house to house. Ella even joins in on occasion; trying to keep up with the boys and keep a close eye on brother. It's been an interesting time as a parent cautiously letting your children spread their wings. Deep breaths. Loves her new Minnie Mouse scooter from Josh and Mandy. The "wolfpack" in our backyard.