Jonah's 7th

Last Friday, January 21st, was Jonah's 7th birthday. To celebrate, we decided that he could invite a few friends to go bowling with us on Friday and then we would have the family party on Saturday.  Jonah only wanted to take one friend with him.  Her name is Adelle.  Adelle is in his primary class and they are such kindred spirits.  They both love to read and are a bit on the sensitive/emotional side of Sears.  I asked Jonah several times if he'd like to invite one or two more friends, but he only wanted Adelle to come.  So on Friday, Jonah, Adelle, Lilly, Jayne, Aunt Sarah, and I set out for the bowling alley.  We went to Fat Cats Fun Center in Salt Lake.  This was my kids' first time bowling.  
Our biggest challenge was finding a semi-light ball.  The lightest we could find in the whole place were a couple of 8 pounders. 

It was really fun watching the kids bowl.  They all had their own style.  Jonah wanted to be precise, Adelle had to get a running start, and Lilly would set the ball down in front of her and push it and then lie down on the floor to watch it until it got to the pins (which was usually a very long time).

 
After bowling we headed to McDonald's for some happy meals and play time. Then Jonah got to open his present from Adelle.  It was a book, but not just any book.  It was a big book of facts.  Jonah loves non-fiction. He was so excited about this book and has been reading it all weekend.  He's been regaling me with tidbits about Venus fly traps.  
Then on Saturday we had the customary birthday dinner with my family.  At Jonah's request, the menu was pasta, vegetables, and fruit. After dinner we had a pinata, also per Jonah's request.  Uncle Jake was brave enough to hold the pinata up for us while my three sluggers gave it their best swings.  Then it was time for presents.  Among Jonah's birthday swag this year were a Walmart gift card which he used today to purchase a toy manta ray and dragon, some very handsome school shirts, Star Wars Legos, a Beach Boys CD, calculator, and Nerf dart tag set.  I'd say he did pretty well.  He loves it all.

Jonah's birthday cake was in the shape of an octopus.  My mom had bought an octopus mold and gave it to us to use.  It turned out really cute.  My sister, Rachel, did the embellishments. Jonah wanted the number candle and mint chocolate chip ice cream (he takes after his mother).

Jonah said it was the best birthday ever, which makes it all worth it.  I'm so proud of the way he's growing and what a great big brother he is for Lilly and Jayne.  Happy Birthday Jonah!