Gabriel's June

For various reasons, I decided to have Gabriel's birthday party with his friends early. So on the Saturday after the last day of school, we had an adventure-themed party!

Ephraim helps with the decorations.

Torches (cupcakes in a cone)

Gabriel wanted a "feast" as part of the party. I did my best for kids in the afternoon.

They colored dragons and knights from a coloring book.

We decorated the house with candles. Glowing wands were favors.

Gabriel's friend Daniel from church was the only other kid to attend but they had so much fun! I created a scavenger hunt (follow clues to spots around the yard) and it was perfect for just the three of them.

The treasure at the end was fruit snacks hidden in a chest of play jewels.

Make a wish!

Gabriel loved it all. But perhaps his favorite part was picking out a new Lego set and putting it together.

Love that smirk!!

You're almost eight years old, my amazing intelligent boy!! Growing up so fast!

Mostly Ephraim in May

One Sunday in May we found a dead dried-up lizard in the backyard.

Dad tried making truffles and ended up using it as cake filling. There was too much delicious cake so mom and dad had to call us all over to help them eat it. It's tough living close by them!! :)

Family puzzle time!

Ephraim is so patient with it.

 Collecting bugs!

Mom and dad bought an outside umbrella for me as an early birthday present. My uncle Tom got a discount for us and shipped it here. Some assembly required, but Ephraim eagerly helped me out.

We emptied our sandbox (which we haven't used in two years!) into the sandbags to make the base solid. Ephraim was there to help with relocation of the sandbag.

Enjoying the shade of our labor! Perfect for our sunny backyard that faces west.

 Both boys' reading has improved greatly. Gabriel was reading Dr. Suess to Ephraim.

 Ephraim continues to be adorable! Look at those eyes!

Look at that... underwear... what in the ...?!