Tristan's 8th Birthday!!!

Wow!!!  I can't believe that my 1st born is already 8 years old!!  You know when you are a kid and are waiting for things to happen and time just seems to drag?  I remember my parents telling me "Just wait until you are my age--then you will wish for time to slow down."  That is kind of where I am at right now.  I listen to my boys count the days until the next big thing: their birthdays, summer vacation, Christmas, etc. and I just know how quickly that time is going to pass by and it is a little bit bittersweet.

We celebrated Tristan's birthday at my grandparents farm (one of our absolute favorite places) with an

X-Games themed birthday party.  After some chilly and rainy Illinois weather his birthday came as a perfect sunny fall day!  Tristan invited a couple of his homeschool buddies and their families as well as all of our nearby family! Although we had planned games and activities for the boys they were all only interested in being either by the water or the fire!!  I am beginning to realize that this must be a phase that we are entering--an 8-12 year old boy phase--and it is a bit scary for mom and dad!!

I made a skateboard cake for Tristan (his request) and the guests all loved it.  Tristan's favorite presents came from Grandma and Grandpa Rayborn and Aunt Emma--his husky hoodie and stuffed husky dog.  Tristan named his husky Maxwell and carries it everywhere with him! 

We all enjoyed a warm bonfire made by Grandpa Wib and cooked hotdogs and marshmallows over it.  We also enjoyed homemade hot chocolate from Grandma Pat along with cheesy potato casserole, chips and soda.  After the guests left and we had packed up and were in the van headed for home Tristan said: "Mom, this was my best birthday ever!"  I am so glad.......