Jeremiah's Golden Birthday

Several months ago Jeremiah realized that his birthday would be on a Saturday, perfect for having a party on his GOLDEN birthday. It's hard to believe this kid is 8-years-old already! We allowed him to choose the activity for his birthday (well, after we nixed Chuckie Cheese!) and he chose bowling. 

He welcomed 6 friends - Keegan, Logan D., Sid, Caleb Z., Nick and cousin Karl - for pizza, bowling, gifts and cupcakes!!! The boys had so much fun bowling together! 

Jeremiah was blessed to receive Pokemon cards, a Simon, the Planes Fire and Rescue Movie, and some gift cards from his friends. Many others gave him money to save for a tablet. Mom and Dad gave him a football board game, some shirts and "Where the Sidewalk Ends".  

Aunt Leisa and Levi had their own fun while the big boys were bowling. 

Andrew Turns 5!

Andrew kicked off his fifth birthday by taking donuts to daycare for breakfast. He continued his celebration at his preschool's Halloween party. He took Avenger cupcakes and was excited to have several Super Hero games and decorations as part of the celebration. 

After trick-or-treating, he requested pizza for dinner and then had a cupcake. There was a much-anticipated pogo stick unwrapped from Aunt Tim and Aunt Ann. Matt and Cailtin brought him some books and a movie. Aunt Sheila surprised him and gave him a special new shirt and a video game. Mom and Dad welcomed Hulk in to the arsenal of super heroes at our house. Grandma and Grandpa Todd gave Andrew a month of tumbling class. Maama and Papa S. gave him a very special tractor that little boys in our family get on their fifth birthday. It is a replica of one of the first ones that they owned together.

We gave Andrew a choice of things to do for his birthday party and he was quick to choose indoor mini golf. Taking five 5-year-olds glow-in-the-dark mini golfing may have been insane, but they really were fun! The kids had a good time and then we wrapped up with some cake and gifts. His guests were Hylah, Weston, Hunter (all from daycare) and Claire Kuipers. Aunt Caitlin and Uncle Matt golfed with Jeremiah. Kelson and Levi played their own little games, as well.

Happy Halloween

Halloween blew in on some pretty strong winds, but the Todd boys soaked up so much excitement anyways. 

A few days before Halloween, they provided daddy with very specific instructions for their pumpkin carving. Levi was very interested in spreading pumpkin guts all over the kitchen. He was quick to stick his hands in, declare "eww" and then fling it around. Daddy continued his tradition of carving Andrew's age in the side of his pumpkin.

As typical, Andrew enjoyed coupling his birthday celebrations with Halloween. He went as Iron Man, to compliment Jeremiah's Captain America. Levi sported a bat costume.

All three started the night trick-or-treating, but Levi didn't last long in very cold wind. He was happy to hang out on the porch at home, greeting other trick-or-treaters. He was especially excited for Aunt Caitlin and Uncle Matt to arrive amongst the other kids stopping by for candy. 

Andrew asked for a Frankenstein pumpkin so we added neck bolts.