Eleven

After celebrating all weekend, the duo were still ready for more fun when their birthday finallllly arrived on October 3rd. After breakfast, they headed off to school for a long day.  

We met up with them later for lunch.  

We love a good birthday lunch. Everyone tells me all lunch visits cease in middle school; even so, I know they'll come back around when they're older.  

They had a Science Olympiad practice until 4:30pm, and that threatened to cut into their birthday time. Their coach kindly agreed to a "special snack" so I surprised them with cupcakes, chips and Milo's tea. There weren't streamers or anything, and it was after official school hours. Therefore, no one can accuse the event of being a party. ;) 

"Party" or no, they had a great time celebrating with their teammates.  

At home, they requested a favorite for dinner: spaghetti and garlic bread. Naturally, we had more cake and singing.  

William George wanted to buy Grace and Lauren presents with his own money. When I told him we would go one day while they are at dance, he said, "No. Take some money from my wallet and get them something really good. I don't want to ruin the surprise." Although he was being very generous, he did not want the responsibility of keeping a secret.  

He helped me wrap his gifts while the girls were at Science Olympiad. His gift ended up being a set of rings, necklaces and fancy bobby pins from Gymboree. After looking at it all (x2), he said, "Uhm... Mom? How much did all this cost?"  

(We learned about sales and BOGO's then.)  

He was so proud of his gifts, and they loved them.  

Grace and Lauren were ready for new bicycles this year, and we had shopped the weekend prior to fit them with 22 speed bikes. Because they made such reasonable choices, they were able to have a few extra items, too, such as books, clothes, pajamas, lotion and a few other favorites.  

And this little guy got a few things, too, just for being such an awesome brother.  

Lauren, Grace, we really enjoyed celebrating your eleventh birthday, and are so incredibly thankful you were born.  

We love you to pieces!