Today was Nate's 9th birthday! This year was pretty exciting because he got to share his birthday with Election Day. We began his celebration with our whip cream loaded pancakes and an interesting interpretation of the birthday song, all on different keys and different timings. (What can you say, we are not choir material.) We still got the point across though. Nate really seemed to enjoy it, and that is what counts the most! Nate and I then had the opportunity to go vote. I think it was a great learning experience. He was grateful to see that it was easy and quick! Nate sure has come a long way this past year. Last year at this time we were very concerned about him. After seeing numerous doctors and specialists, we finally found the right medication to stabilize his emotions and anxiety attacks. What a difference it has made. He is finally back to his lovable, helpful, enjoyable self. We are so--- glad! Nate is a wonderful boy! He is fantastic with William, and growing and learning the exceptional fathering skills he will need when he becomes a father himself. He is doing fantastic in his school work too, and even made the A honor roll, with his lowest grade being a 95. We are so proud of him, and so happy he is part of our family!
We had pizza, birthday cake, and icecream to eat, with googlely punch to drink(complete with bugs and skulls). The kids tried to play "Dead Man Tag", but everyone soon realized we had too many obstacles to run into while blindfolded. The kids Mummy Wrapped and played Pin the Tail on the Cat, of course created by Brianna. All the kids left with smiles. Brianna and Nate loved it, and Mom and Dad were ready for a good night's rest and the time change!
We had a cake walk, pin the wart on the witch, pumpkin decorating, a balloon toss, guessing games, broom ball, a spider-walk relay, mummy wrapping, face painting, etc... No one wanted to leave, so we stayed from 11-3. You can say the kids, and mom, were really worn out by the time we got home.
Their neighborhood had more visitors than in years past, which was nice to see, and the neighbors seem to get friendlier and friendlier. I think they realize we have been doing this for 10 years now. After walking for over an hour, and carrying the little ones the last part of the way, Sam and I were grateful the night came to a close. The kids were very satisfied with life, and we were exhausted! Sleep never felt so great! (Too bad it would have end so soon!)
We took lots of pictures, and thanks to our Mimi, we looked very festive for the ocassion. (The kids absolutely love wearing their Halloween attire to the pumpkin patch as you can see!) It was a great day!
