Happy Belated Birthday Post

Dear Cooper,

Tomorrow is exactly one month since you turned eight years old and sadly I have yet to even mention your big day on the blog.   That's not to say that your eighth birthday was not a momentous occasion or suggestive of me trying to deny the fact that you are another year older.   The fact is that your birthday celebrations were many this time around - exactly how it should be, I suppose.

A few months prior to your birthday you wished to go to Legoland and stay at the new hotel and so that began the birthday celebration.   We had a wonderful time there enjoying you and all Lego had to offer but felt like you should definitely have a little celebration with your friends.

Your request was a simple backyard wiffle ball party with the neighborhood gang.  The ball games have been occurring with regularity this summer and for your special day Daddy even painted lines on the yard and cut the grass into a diamond.

 We had a little water balloon fight and some cupcakes.

 Kinley was thrilled to be included and even picked for a team.

You were especially happy that Cale and Cody could come down and spend the day with us also.  The three of you have become fast friends over the past few years and enjoy being together so much.

What seems to be lacking as I go through the pictures are photos of  McKenna and Daddy but I promise they were there for your party.

I was there, too, behind the camera and behind the scenes but here is a quick picture we snapped on your actual birthday.   Even eight years later I can close my eyes and remember the moment late that June evening that they placed you into my arms.  You surprised us a couple of weeks early and you continue to keep us on our toes.   Your energy is limitless.   Your willingness to try new things endless and your heart for others is huge.   Your relationship with your sisters continues to keep me in awe.   You and McKenna seems to have a mutual respect for one another that I can scarcely comprehand.  While you and Kinley spend equal amounts of time antagonizing one another and playing together nicely.   In the end you're her biggest fan and fierce protector.

You continue to love all things sports related but have a slight obsession with LeBron James.  I will often find you watching LeBron documentaries on youtube or reading basketball books.   You declined an offer to play club soccer this year for a chance to try baseball but above all, your first love is basketball.  

You're growing physically at an alarming rate and soon may pass McKenna in the height department.  That means it also won't be long before you pass me too!

Cooper, we all love you so very much.   I am proud to be your momma.    Happy 8th birthday, buddy.

Love, Mom