Ephraim turned 6 last month and we had a Ninjago party. (Ninjago is Ninja Legos.) Here is my pinterest Ninjago board.









Ephraim enjoyed his party and I think the little boys had fun. That said, I am staying away from Pinterest for a while. Too much pressure to put on a presentation and make your party a “show.” I get way too stressed about putting these parties together. It should be a relaxed time to celebrate the birthday kid, not a time to impress everyone!
A few days later, this happened:



Seeing my son graduate from kindergarten was bittersweet. When I saw him up there in his little cap and gown with all his friends, I teared up with a mother’s pride, and also with a mother’s fear. My chubby baby boy has grown up and learned so much! I love his gentle heart, his boyish mischief, and his wild abandon.
But I still remember the night my parents and Will’s body came home from Thailand, and Will’s high school graduation gown was hanging in the doorway of his old room. He died four days after he graduated. I will never be able to completely lose the fear that something will happen to my children. Most days, it is kept at bay, somewhere in the back of my mind, ignored. But sometimes, it swells up and pushes itself into my thoughts.
I hope and pray that my children will always be safe, healthy, and happy. I am so very proud of them both.
I cannot believe how big he is!! It is so fun to watch him (And Madeleine) grow up into such awesome “big kids”! You are a wonderful Mother to them both. I am proud of you every time I see them or read about them. There is nothing like the fear we feel for our children. I cannot imagine how much greater that must be for you. I never thought about that before, and it brought tears to my eyes. I pray an extra prayer of strength and faith for you my friend! Their lives and precious and they are lucky to have such a faithful and attentive/supportive Mom!! Love you all!