Tyler's Birthday

Tyler turned 12 on Saturday, May 5.  He is our Cinco De Mayo Baby :) 

He had a great (and long) celebration this year.  It all started on Friday.  It was Dare day at Boondock's so he and a bunch of his friends spent a few hours bowling, golfing, riding go carts, bumper boats, arcading and eating pizza.  It was a great afternoon for these boys, spreading their wings without their mamas ;)  It kind of made me laugh that Tyler wasn't tall enough to drive the go carts by himself, so he had to ride with one of his buddies.  It didn't phase him at all! 

After Boondocks, a bunch of them came over for a little party.  All Tyler wanted was chips, salsa and chili cheese dip.  I added a few other treats and it was seriously the easiest party ever!  They played soccer outside and capture the flag once it got dark.  No party games, treat bags, nothing!!!  He had a great time with some great friends.

Tyler is not a cake fan.  He opted for mint chocolate chip oreo ice cream pie

Saturday was a little bit hectic.  Soccer games kept us busy until 5:00.  After his game he chose to go to Menchies for a little treat.  We tried to get him to go to dinner.  We tried to get him to go to the movie.  We tried to get him to do something fun.  He chose to have Travis cook a pasta dinner and just hang out with the family for the evening.  He doesn't like to go to movies.  He just can't see the logic in spending $7 on popcorn when you can buy a whole box of microwave popcorn for $5. Travis did talk him into going to Krispy Kreme.   I felt a little bit bad that we didn't do anything exciting, but he often prefers it that way. 

Gavin and Emily pooled their resources (with a little additional help) and got him a PS Madden game

An iHome was at the top of his wish list.

Sunday, he received the priesthood.  I am so proud of him and hope that he always stays as enthusiastic as he is now.  His three YM leaders, Ron Hill, Mike Palmer and Brady Moline, stood in the circle with Travis and Grandpa Paul.  What a great example these men are for him to follow!  You couldn't ask for better leaders for Tyler.

After church, we had the grandparents over for dinner, and then the aunts, uncles and cousins came for treats!  It was a great evening just hanging out with the family!

Vanilla ice cream pie topped with Twix, caramel sauce and whipped cream = YUM!!!

I am so proud of the young man Tyler is becoming.  He is smart, hard working, helpful at home and has a great sense of humor.  He is a friend to all and is such a great example to his younger siblings.  Thanks, Tyler, for everything you do for your family!

Happy birthday!  We sure love you!