bullseye

The other day Gabe was feeling a bit friendless (don't we all have those 'nobody likes me' days?); I comforted and talked and finally pulled out his birthday party photos. "Look at all your buddies!"

And that's exactly what photos and blogs are for-- to remember and remind ourselves of the good in our lives. To laugh and smile and notice the happiness all around.  I haven't written about one of Gabe's parties since 2009. Mostly because five other birthdays come quick on the heels of his. And let's face it-- it can be pretty difficult to pick up a camera at boy parties. The house transforms into a whirlwind of excitement and I'm usually trying to prevent injuries rather than preserve memories.

 

If you crave simplicity and a bit of structure for 10 and 11 year old boys, I highly recommend an archery party. We simply met after school, ate a bit of cake and pizza, opened presents and headed to the archery range.

For about the cost of a movie ticket our instructor carefully taught the boys the basics of archery-- safety, form, precision. It's an elegant sport and the boys gained an immediate respect for the sharp arrows.

It was amazing to watch them listen, wait patiently for their turn and cheer each other on.

As they progressed, they moved further and further from the targets.

In the course of 90 minutes each boy shot about 50 arrows and they all improved immensely.

C'mon Gabe, have you ever seen a more enthusiastic rendition of 'Happy Birthday to you...' You are loved, you are loved.