Whew!

What a busy weekend! Thursday, not technically the weekend but we celebrated my baby's 11th birthday. When there's a party, it feels like the weekend. And technically he's not my baby, he's the oldest. I am dumbfounded. Eleven years has passed faster than I knew possible. Tanner is such a clever, well-loved, bigger than life, personality. He is our "pleaser". He is so confident and independent, yet finds immense joy in bringing honor and pride to Jerry and I. He will do something amazing one day...he may just revolutionize the world of hunting. He possesses a passion for the sport and an imagination that I believe will allow him to make a career of what he loves. Tanner is quirky, loud, tender, gentle, bright, grouchy, an old soul, a kid at heart, my sweet, sweet son. I love everything about him, he is, joy.
Friday, I attended Sammy's Halloween Party at school. We took the kids trick or treating, went to a family Halloween Party, then a grown-up Halloween Party. I dressed as Flo, you know, the Progressive Insurance Lady. Fun times!
Saturday, my mom and I took my three boys and their three cousins to the movies. We saw Legend of the Guardians, very disappointing. Tanner said it was "okay", assuring me the books are much better. The highlight of the movie was Owen leaning on one of my shoulders, Sammy on the other and my niece curled up on my lap. Though they all watched the movie intently, they didn't enjoy it that much either. I choose to believe they loved the snuggles as much as I did. They are growing so quickly, I savor the simplicity of resting heads and hands being held. Following, we indulged in Whoppers! Yum! Not the malted chocolate, the flame broiled kind...the kind that you can't enjoy very often because of the guilt you feel after. Sammy spent the night with Granny. Tanner stayed with our family friends, redeeming a birthday hunting "gift certificate".
Sunday, we spent the whole day with Owen at a wrestling tournament. It was his first of the season, so he was a little rusty but had a great finish! Second Place!! The trophy is more important than the win to him, which I love. I am amazed by his physical strength and his love of the sport. He has this dedication and determination in everything he does. I worry that he is "too serious" for his very young nine years..until I see the very appropriate, childlike response to the shiny symbol of accomplishment. He is mesmerized by it's bright colors and reflection. As hard as he may try to hide it, I see it. Joy.
A busy weekend at it's fullest with family and friends, just like my very blessed life.