double digits

Joaquin hit the double digits this month.  The big 1-0.

Ten years in the trenches with this little guy, and it's finally paying off.  While he might be an annoying little brother, he is a GREAT big brother; Carmen can testify to that.  Joaquin is extreme. He keeps us all laughing, but will cry huge tears over a tough homework assignment.  He can clean a room in minutes, makes a bed better than an army soldier,  but will drop his HUGE TaeKwonDo bag, book bag and soccer bag right at the front door so everyone trips over them.  And I can chase him through the house and never catch him for a simple hug, but he'll surprise me with a soft squeeze if I'm headed out the door without him...I'd say he's growing up.

He's all about soccer these days.  See that giant goal in the back?  That was his surprise birthday gift.

He tested out all his famous moves on it.

I set up a little scavenger hunt for him to find his presents, starting at his place at the table.  The clues led him around the house where he found two little World Cup souvenirs, all the while oblivious to the giant goal sitting just outside the window.

Another cake mishap by me, but it sure tasted good.  Lemon cake with homemade icing.  We can just pretend it's a soccer ball on top.

His good friend celebrated with us...at Joaquin's favorite spot...

SkyZone!  Jump, jump, jump....

Wow, Isabela!

This place is fun.  But don't just let the kids have fun!  Get a pair of orange socks yourself and try it out!  Although I'd stay away from the foam pit...that's definitely not as fun as it looks.

Dodgeball is highly addictive.  This little guy just jumped nonstop and rarely got out.  Overheard:  "Someone get this little kid outta here!"

Joaquin in action.  That's not as easy as it looks.

But that blurry smile means it was a REALLY happy birthday!