Today our sweet Miles turns eight years old. He’s so funny, smart, complex and a ball of whirling, swirling energy that never ceases to surprise me. This year, he wanted a very small and homemade Skylanders party. Miles created his own games, helped with the food and made his own decorations. He really loves to run the show, and finally, after eight years, we are learning to just step aside and let him do his thing! I’ve often gone overboard in the past with parties and I’m learning to pump the breaks a bit. Jocelyn’s third birthday had forty people and a petting zoo in our backyard. It was an awesome party, but pretty overwhelming for Miles. I’ve learned that as much fun as those parties can be for the guests, our guy Miles is more of an intimate party guy. So even though we have met so many awesome friends here in California, he invited just two of his friends and a little sis for Joss. It was a perfect celebration for him!

Here’s a peek into our day celebrating Miles with games, food and of course, presents. Miles created a “golden can shoot out” game with Nerf guns that everybody loved. (Including the dads.)

It’s tradition that I create a pin the tail on what ever character the kids are into that year. This year it was Washbuckler, which has to be the HARDEST Skylander to draw! I plan on embarrassing them with this tradition well into their teen years.

Miles LOVED his gifts and was very vocal about it! (He gets his dramatic side honestly from me.)

We love you so much Miles! We’ve loved every age you’ve been so far and I know this year will be even more amazing! Your eighth birthday will be remembered as your first birthday in California. I’m so incredibly proud of all the growth you’ve made to open your heart to California and all the new people we’ve met here.