two!

When asking Archer how old he is, he quickly responds "two"!  He officially turned 2 last Sunday and it's hard to believe! {I know everyone says that, but I really feel like the past two years with my little man have flown by!} We had a casual celebration with family on his big day with cake and ice cream.  Having just planned a big party for Lexi the day before, I felt that dessert with family would have to do.  Archer loved it and loved opening his presents!  

Here's a few photos I got with my phone due to my camera battery dying after the first shot! =(

Archer we love you! You are my little buddy and I love having so much me and you time!
You crack us up and are always trying to do the things your older brother and sister do.
You love to sing!
You love to pick out your own clothes.
You love your blankie and yes you still have your beloved binkie! {we'll be getting rid of soon!}
You love your Daddy and run to him the moment he walks in the door!
You love the park and always want to carry your own lunch for park day.
You are very independent.  Sometimes it takes a bit of coercing before you let someone help you do something.
You love hats, sunglasses, shoes, etc.
You love to read stories and cuddle before bed...
We love, love, love you!

Let's picnic!

Lexi's birthday was the 14th and it's hard to believe she turned 8!  Because we were having her party on Sat. we still had some fun in the morning and let her open a few gifts.  Everything was clothes! {exactly what she wanted}

On Saturday we celebrated picnic style and had a backyard bash!  Lexi had 15 of her friends over for a picnic and some fun relays and outdoor games.  

As everyone showed up they played red rover.

Sandwiches, potato salad, fruit kabobs and chips!  

{notice Caden and his friend Ethan AWAY from all the girls!}

The candy bar game

Three-legged race

Hula Hoop Game

Balloon Sandwich Relay

Archer playing with the cones as the girls get ready for "wacky waiter".

It was a beautiful day, but a little windy which made it hard to light the candles.  This is the girls' attempt at blocking the wind.

We ended up taking the candles indoors and singing "happy birthday" there.

Lexi we love you!  Here's the most notable 8 things about you at age 8!

1.  Your style!  {you love to be trendy and try new things}
2.  You love to dance and are getting better and better!
3.  You are such a great friend!  Each of your friends loves to be around you.
4.  Math is your favorite subject and you are sooo good at it!
5.  You still like me to sing you a song every night before you go to bed!
6.  You have a great relationship with your Heavenly Father.  You say the most amazing prayers.  Dad and I often wonder how you learned to pray so well.
7.  You have a genuine concern for someone that is hurt or afflicted.  You want to make them feel better!
8.  You think you need a cell phone!  Ha!  Aren't you only 8?!