Celebrating This LIfe

Charlie loves to celebrate life. He fought to survive when he was born, and I think he really appreciates being alive. I love seeing the world through his eyes. He’s all about the decorations and the party and making life fun. Hmm… I wonder where he learned this?

He’s turning double digits next week and insisted we have a birthday party. He’s still a kid, I know, but the third time around, I’m almost birthday partied out. Not really, but do you know what I mean? Birthday parties are work and take planning and details and messes and chaos and every bit is worth it, once I get through it and see the joy we create.

This year I tried to get out of it. I’ll admit it. But he wouldn’t have it. Smart kid. And of course I would not deny him the pleasure, but I did consider it, I’ll be honest.

We decided to do a Camp Charlie Theme Party and he invited a handful of friends to come sleep over.

The kids came over at 6:30 pm and they played in the tent and set up their sleeping bags.

Charlie gave each guest a goodie bag with candy, gum and a flashlight for their outdoor adventure.

They played outside and played video games inside until they were ready to make their own dinner.

We bought pizza dough from Trader Joes and toppings for them to add to their homemade pizza creations.

This was a fun event in itself and it was fun to watch them collaborating and working together, coming up with pizza boats, pizza pans and finally cinnamon sticks.

When they were done with their late dinner, they decided they wanted to play capture the flag at the park. I gave the kids glow sticks and we ventured down the street to the park for some late night play. I always loved playing in the dark and they seemed to have a great time too.

Close to 10:00 p.m., we came home to sing happy birthday and dive into Charlie’s homemade ice cream cake, which was so easy to make and a big hit.

It had an Oreo cookie crust, filled with cookies and cream ice cream, topped with cookie crumbles and cool whip. No wonder they are all still awake!!

Luckily they got ready for bed soon after and climbed into the tent to tell stories and play with their flashlights and glow sticks, since they are just now starting to be quiet, close to midnight.

I think they’re all having fun, and I’d definitely recommend this if you’re looking for a fun birthday idea. All the kids, including my oldest are having fun just being boys.