Happy Birthday, Joseph!

Last week Joseph turned seven.  I remember when seven was a Very Big Age, but seven doesn't seem that big anymore when you have three other children that have already reached that milestone years before.

Joseph chose to go bowling and have Chinese food to celebrate his birthday.  We don't have birthday parties (I'm too lazy) and instead have a special day together as a family.  After a little internet searching, I found a bowling alley (somewhat) close by and we went and gave it a try.  

It turned out to be very nice and very empty on a Monday morning (Veteran's Day holiday), which was just fine with us.

The children all enjoyed themselves, probably making all the employees cringe with their horrible form, but having fun nevertheless.  The children had bumpers, which is the only explanation I can come up with for why Eleanor spanked all of us, including Brandon.

Afterwards we had lunch at our favorite Chinese hole-in-the-wall restaurant.  When the food is so amazingly good, you can forgive just about any decor.

We couldn't find the candles, so Joseph got to blow out a regular candle instead.  As long as there's fire, evidently it counts.

Joseph was very happy with all his presents.  But, who wouldn't be happy with free stuff, right?

Joseph is a very happy, cheerful boy and always willing to make a new friend.  He just made friends with a neighbor boy and is so happy to have his very own friend that lives just next door.  We're grateful to have Joseph as part of our family!