8 years ago

First off, the 2nd graders in Moundridge started a tradition last year of performing the Seusical Musical in honor of Dr. Seuss' birthday. This year Tyler participated in it and had a pretty large reading part.

Tyler and friend Ellen reading their parts

The big news last week was that Tyler turned 8 years old. It is absolutely amazing that 8 years ago is when we began this new journey in our lives with EEC. We have learned so much and feel blessed for the opportunities we've been given. We've grown and know we are way more accepting of differences because of it. Tyler has been a true gift to us and we thank God for all he's brought into our lives. For his birthday, Friday, we took him to Pizza Hut and bowling with a friend. We all had a great time.

Tyler bowling with his pink ball

Then on Saturday we went to Newton and bought a Wii (which Ryan and Tyler saved $200 for since they wanted one so bad). Then we went on to Wichita to eat with Dad at work (our traditional take-out of Chipotle for the adults and McDonalds for the kids). It's always great to be able to see him at work and share a meal.

Ryan and Tyler playing "baseball" on the Wii

On Sunday Tyler had a piano recital in the afternoon. He played 2 songs and did a very good job.

I videoed but the file was too big to load

In the evening it was off to the AmericInn pool in Hesston for his "friend" birthday party. The boys had a blast in the water, devoured the "puppy" cake (made by Uncle Kent of course), and then made ate pizza.

Our 8 year old posed with his friends and cake

Now one more week before Spring Break. Please keep Tyler in your prayers next week as on his first day of vacation (Wednesday) he will be having foot surgery in Kansas City. Pray for the surgeon and nurses, strength and endurance for Tyler, comfort for us as parents to know it is the best thing for him, grace for those keeping the other 3 boys while we're gone, and understanding for us all in helping Tyler cope with being on crutches and not being able to run for 5-6 weeks afterwards (we're hoping the Wii will come in handy then - from a seated position of course). We will be staying overnight at Children's Mercy Hospital on Wednesday and hopefully returning home Thursday. We pray for safe travels there and back too.