Andrew is 18

I know I’ve had a lot of Andrew posts lately, but that’s what’s going on with us right now.  Maybe you can stand one more?

We threw maybe his last birthday party (do 18 yr old boys have birthday parties?).  He wanted a fire pit in the backyard which sounded easy so we said “great!”.  Then we thought “we have an old swingset that needs to come down….hmmm”.  Guess what happened next?

Getting started:

I mentioned my “extra” kid before right?  This is why I love him!

Does this look like “rushing” the swing set to you?  Yep, that’s what’s happening!

The little kids got to enjoy some cookie cake with the guys before bed.

Happy Birthday to my biggest boy!  We love you, we’re proud of you, and we hope you have an awesome year!!

Paaaaar-taaaay!!

Yesterday was Andrew’s graduation party – finally!!  The party was for Andrew and 5 buddies so it was busy, loud, and FUN!!  Jack and Dasha were a little too busy for this momma while we were setting up so they spent a little time in their car seats (he he). 

A little table surfing is the best way to make sure it’s sturdy, right?

We made up shirts for the guys.  We got Sharpies and let the guys sign each other’s (and some of the rest of us signed them too!).

It isn’t a party without cake!

 

I can’t believe it’s over.  I’m excited for Andrew’s future, but I am gonna miss his high school years, his friends, all the fun.  What an awesome 4 years it has been.  Love you guys, and especially my amazing, intelligent, super fun first-born son.  Your dad and I could not be more proud of you!

My Baby is a High School Graduate!

We haven’t had the party yet.  And I still have to get a good picture taken of him.  But it happened – the graduation ceremony at the high school.

On his way out the door -

He’s in the middle -

And here are a few of the boys -

Our crew that will be partying together -

These 3 are super special – they started kindergarten together, all us moms were friends for awhile, and now they are headed in different directions.  This is quite possibly the last time all 3 will be together.  I’m so proud of them, but my heart hurts at the thought that this time of Andrew’s life is over.

And here are the 2 who’s laughter was completely infectious and who’s jokes and general conversations keep me endlessly entertained.  I will miss the 2 of them together as much as I miss my best friend from high school, who still (thank you God) is my sounding board for all aspects of my life even though we now live 600 miles apart and it’s not the same.  Good luck in everything you do Tony!

We had a little, casual celebration at home, with Andrew opening his cards and everyone eating lots of dessert :)

Congratulations my firstborn.  Your dad and I cannot express how proud we are of you and everything your future holds.  You already have more common sense than many adults we know.  You’re becoming responsible and self-reliant.  And c’mon – a 34 on your ACT?!?!  Who gets that?!  Love you so much!!!!