Owen's birthday

Owen is 10?!!!! Yes, he and Spongebob Squarepants apparently both came into the world during the same week and the world hasn't been the same since! Spongebob had a marathon of episodes on TV to celebrate and Owen had a birthday party at home. After a morning of playing soccer, he invited friends, family, and neighbors over for an afternoon of playing more ball (soccer, kick ball, and baseball) in the front yard. The kids (and Daniel) divided themselves into teams and had a great time playing in the front yard. The rest of us played the part of the devoted fans. After the party, we went to one of his favorite restaurants, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, for dinner.

He's certainly come a long way in those ten years.

Remember before he could walk? He'd crawl down the hall chasing Lucy and when he'd catch her he'd put his ear on her side so he could listen to her purr. Then, he'd lift his head and his sticky face would be covered with fur! He still loves that cat. Thankfully, he's gotten past the sticky, furry face.

Remember when he would only eat his food at room temperature? We had to put his plate in the freezer for a few minutes to cool everything off so he'd eat it. He's getting better at trying new things - this spring he's added cereal with milk and bologna and cheese sandwiches to his list of things he likes. I am still holding out for the day when he finally says those magic words to me "Can I have a salad?"

Remember when he always called Sara "Sissy"? I think that's what I miss the most about his younger days. He idolized her - he wanted to be a big kid just like "Sissy". Now that he's older, he still thinks Sara is alright. I can see it when they play outside together and think no one is watching them. But, more and more, he's stepping into his own and refusing to let her lead him. The arguments are more numerous - still never serious - because he still doesn't like being the "little kid".

Happy Birthday to Owen and SpongeBob - two guys who have brought us smiles, laughter, and crazy dance moves over the past ten years.