He woke up to his doorway decked out with streamers, a tradition we have done since the boys were wee little ones, and his gifts ready to open after a birthday breakfast!
Kendall choose his name in M&M pancakes. He loved them so much that when his teacher sent home the "birthday binder" he decided he would like to write about them.
We all wore silly candle glasses and watched Kendall open presents. He got a maze book, some warm clothes, and a blue scooter. Now he would finally be able to race with Nathan.
Six things I love about this boy:
1. His level of compassion is beyond his age. When he grows up he wants to become a doctor so that he can "get mom better." When I'm sick on the couch, he is constantly tucking me in, stroking my forehead, and gently kissing my cheek.
2. He is a prayer warrior. He does not miss a prayer without praying for someone who is struggling. One day he started praying for a girl I did not know. I asked him who she was and he said that his primary teacher told a story about a girl who was in and out of the hospital with feeding tubes struggling to live. Now, our entire family prays for this young mom fervently.
3. He loves to work and works hard. I hope this quality spills over into his teenage years and into adulthood. When someone is doing a job, Kendall is right beside them. I just taught him how to clean an entire bathroom from top to bottom. With his gloves on and cleaning supplies lined up he spends an hour trying to make it sparkle and makes sure every last bit is clean.
4. He is aware of others. He can often feel how others are feeling and if they are having a hard time he is able to reach out and tries to make them better.
5. He loves little kids. He is sweet and gentle and kind to them. He can play with them for hours. In fact, I find myself giving him quarters for entertaining and occupying them for hours.
6. He is brave. He has overcome and conquered difficult things this year. He now happily goes to a new primary and a new school. This was very hard for him this year. It has made him realize that he can do hard things. It has also made me realize he is growing up.
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It was time for a training session. Justin transformed into a Sensei and spoke Japanese as he taught the kids punches and kicks. It was a highlight for sure!
With the new moves the kids learned it only seemed fitting that they have a sword to go with them. Earlier in the week Kendall and I spray painted paint sticks metallic silver. The kids wrapped black duct tape around the handle and added their names.
We headed downstairs to ninja dance to "What Does the Fox Say." My friend Natalie, headed up the dance party and shook the roof off with 12 little dancers.
The party took another turn as the kids struck a Chinese star pinata with their swords. After they each had a turn, Elena gave it a final whack and all the candy flew out!
We wrapped the party up with present opening, ninja cupcakes and rice krispie sushi.
Those kids really made the party fun and unforgettable!
