One Year Away From Two Digits

Luka woke up the morning of his birthday and announced, "I'm one year away from two digits!"  Well, indeed.  And I had no idea that was such a milestone!  There were two big celebrations this year: one with the Gundens for all the fall birthdays, and one with the friends.  Of course there are all the small ones: cupcakes to school for his class, the traditional pancakes with whip cream birthday breakfast, etc.  It reminds me of the Berenstain Bear book called Too Much Birthday.  By the end of a birthday week, I am definitely birthday'd out.

Norah and Luka get to celebrate their birthday's together.  This year we met at our house and made a little fall festival out of it.  The kids decorated pumpkins, opened gifts, played outside, and had cake, of course.

All the kids have also gotten into making very elaborate cards for each other.  It is becoming a great tradition!

The next celebration was with Luka's friends.  Luka decided he wanted a puppy party.  Well, sure!  Of course for me that is much more fun to plan than Star Wars or Sponge Bob.  Plus, after finding a new home for Saxon and talking about getting a new puppy, I think it was top of mind for him. He said he wanted just a few close friends to come to the house.  Unfortunately, just about every day, he came home wanting to invite another friend.  

So, we ended up entertaining about 5 boys for two hours.  Even though the weather was on and off rain, we managed to get in an outdoor scavenger hunt, and the ending clue was at the end of the cul-se-sac at the mailboxes.  It was hilarious to see this gang of kids running down the street.  Oh and by the way, I totally stole the scavenger hunt idea, clues and all, from Norah's party the week before.  So thank you Ont Onchee for writing it for me! 

We also played Twister, and had a Pictionary game with things like "dog poop."  There were lots of giggles and laughter, so from that standpoint, it was a success!  When the creative activities were over (and I was getting tired), and since they couldn't play outside, we pulled out the America's Funniest Videos - Pet Edition.  Again, success and something all could enjoy!  For party favors, we gave away Puppy Bags (instead of Doggy bags) filled with goodies.

For the cake, we made puppy paw cupcakes.  #Ilovepinterest.  I love the second picture of Luka...he has that genuine Luka smile of pure joy!

For his birthday, Luka received his first guitar.  It was a complete surprise.  I'll post anupdate in a few months about how the lessons are going!  Unfortunately, it means he is no longer taking piano, but the same teacher teaches both, so if he ever ends up wanting to switch back, it is an easy option!

Luka, you are growing up and quickly maturing into a kind-hearted young man....tween I guess!  You still seem to stumble and trip on lint, and at times you are still way too loud, but overall, you are very enjoyable to be around.  You are mom's helper in the mornings, as we are both early risers.  You are dedicated to school and learning, and you love academic challenges.  You created your first big report and research project this year on what else?  Schnauzers!  We love your curiosity for life, your love for reading, and musical talent.  This fall, it was very fun to watch you play soccer, and to see your enthusiasm develop for the sport.  We love your humor, your consideration for others, and your appreciation that is so often expressed to us.  Luka Drew, you are something special, and we love you!