Kade's Early Birthday Sports-themed Party

 

Kade's birthday is always a bit tricky as it comes after school has ended for the year - he never seems to get a big party with all his friends. This year we decided to plan early and scheduled a sports-themed party on June 1st (it's at least in the month of his birth!) 

Kade made his invitation list - all boys - and brought all the invitations to school to pass out. Most of his friends were in his class, but a few in other 3rd grade classes that he's kept over the years. 

Kade could have picked 3 sports or activities to play during his birthday party - basketball, soccer, handball, kickball, lacrosse, dodgeball, relay races, etc.... he wanted only soccer and dodgeball! I guess those are his favorites when he attends SportHQ during summer camps. 

The boys took turns in goal. Brock didn't see much action during his time. 

You could tell which boys have more soccer experience. I think it was harder to play inside - maybe easier in the summer as there's a bit more air conditioning. 

Alas, the ball seemed to go out of bounds more so indoors. 

And harder to complete corner kicks - can't do any running starts!

Look at that fancy footwork!

Kade is quick! He was always whizzing by right there in the front to get the ball!

After 45 minutes of indoor soccer and a water break, the boys were quickly ready to choose teams for dodgeball. 

Kade just couldn't bring himself to select Brock - a decision I think he later regretted! 

Several times, Brock would be the last man standing on his team! His arm is just too powerful.... had to remind him he should be throwing 60% against the third graders!

The boys on the side waiting for a catch or someone to yell "jailbreak"!

New game - everyone run to get the balls in the center!!

All the kiddos played so hard, they surely earned this load of sugar! Vanilla and chocolate cupcakes with blue, cyan and green frosting! 

Brent explained we were saving the candle for his actual birthday, later in the month, and delegated the start of the singing to one of Kade's friends. Papa and Nana Phyllis make a cameo appearance in the video above too!

Happy Birthday Kade! But I think we'll be saying that again to you! 

2024 Carolina Classic Taekwondo Tournament

Kade competed in the 2024 Carolina Classic Taekwondo Tournament this past Saturday at the Durham Convention Center. This was a big deal - competitors coming from all over the country to attend this competition (there was a boy from Tampa and Philadelphia in his ring)! 

Arrived after the Opening Ceremonies this time and didn't have to wait too long for the 8 and Under's to be called to a ring! His ring had 8 total boys - a pretty good number. First event - Forms. 

I love this little look of determination on his face!

Scored 7, 7, 8 from the judges - not bad at all - earned him Second Place! 

Moving on to Weapons - he's all about his bo staff now!

Because he was one of the first 3 competitors, they get their scores all together. He received great marks - 7, 9, 8 for his bo staff! Unfortunately another boy beat him out on this event - Kade received Second place in weapons. 

On to the third event - combat sparring! Kade has the black helmet.

As there were not too many competitors, even though he lost his first match, he still moved on to the match for third place. Master Beddow stopped in to watch him!

Winner is the first to 10 points in combat sparring - he picked up quite a few points from this boy who kept dropping his weapon unfortunately. Secured a win for a third place medal!

On to sparring - these matches only go to 5 points. And this match was interesting! Kade is closest to us (red). Check out the final kick to win the match!

Final match - fighting for first place (loser gets second place). Kade has black helmet. 

Oh my goodness gracious! He won!! He never gave up! What a comeback after being down 1-4 - came back to win 5-4!!

Look at that grin!

Some group pictures with his taekwondo ring! 

Such a proud boy with his four medals around his neck! One first place, two second place and one third place!! Much deserved after lots of practicing! 

Solar Eclipse 2024

 

Monday, April 8, 2024 the United States would be treated to another total solar eclipse. This time, Raleigh North Carolina was only set to experience 78% totality. Still not bad - we definitely still felt and saw a difference!

Brent picked the boys up from school early so we could all see the eclipse together. 

Moose carried the tradition of wearing proper eye protection for the total solar eclipse too!

A family event! Super cool!

Easter and Bees!

The Saturday before Easter is egg coloring day! 

They always work so hard choosing just the right combination of colors. 

After the boys discovered and examined their easter basket of goodies Sunday morning, it was time for church. 

Love my little tulip garden!

Easter tradition for a backyard egg hunt! Brock may or may not have been too excited that I chose to hide TWO golden eggs this year. 

I spot an egg behind that soccer ball!

Moose made sure he rolled in all areas of the grass while the hunt was happening!

One golden egg found, trying to give hints on where to find the other... 

The problem was, it was being guarded by a vicious flying bumble bee!!!

Safe inside with full baskets!

And TWO golden eggs!! 

Lovely Easter dinner spread! 

My new tablecloth seemed to match the theme of the day - bees!! Haha!

Happy Easter to all those who celebrate!