Parker's 15th Birthday

My first born is 15 years old! Something about reminiscing about that monumental day is making me want another baby. Parker was a total dream boat. He was THE cutest baby with the biggest blue eyes. The day I bright him home from the hospital, I immediately wanted another one just like him. He has always been a happy, giggly boy. He’s easy to get along with and fun to be around. I love our little inside jokes and the way we can talk to each other by just using our eyes. He likes to plan and set goals, just like me and I really enjoy our chats about his future. Like his patriarchal blessing says, he is on a remarkable journey and I am so proud of all of the steps he’s taking to become the person our Heavenly Father has destined him to become. His birthday this year was on a Wednesday so we spent a few days celebrating. He was maybe going to go on a Young Mens campout with Tavian, but that fell through. So I took him to Knott’s and I really did think I might die on the rides me made me go on. Sheesh. That place is NOT for the faint of heart. We got in using Angel’s pass so we were able to score some chicken tenders, too. He would not stop talking about this record player he wanted (new hobby: vinyl albums) and I knew my parents had bought him one for his birthday. So we went to their house after Knott’s and he was so stoked when he opened his gift! And my Dad was excited because he got the exact same record player and they were giddy together. My Dad presented Parker with a Dave Brubeck album that he purchased brand new 60 years ago! He told us the story about how he was dropped off in downtown Salt Lake by his big brother when he was about Parker’s age to see Dave Brubeck live in concert. He got to the club early and was standing right up against the stage as they were setting up and everything. Then, when Dave came out and started to play, my dad was BLOWN AWAY. What a neat story! My Dad is so rad. And it’s fun that Parker shares so many of the same interests and hobbies. 

After that fun and eventful morning, we picked up the kids from school and while Rayleigh was at her piano lesson, I took the kids to the Dollar Store. I let Parker go in first and he picked 5 things. Then I took the rest of the kids in and they had to try and pick 3 things that they thought Parker would have chosen. We then grabbed Mountain Mikes Pizza and some Del Taco and went home to see what everyone chose. Parker picked only snack items and each kid got at least 1 item correct. It was a fun game and a great way to recognize Parker and gift him some goodies. 

That evening, I dropped Parker, Sydney, and Purple off at the Spectrum to shop around and hang out while I went to Bookclub. We had our annual garden party in Anique’s backyard and it was beautiful! We had a lovely dinner (everyone brought something to share) and sat out by her fire under the pretty lights to discuss books and reading. What a gorgeous evening! Parker spent way too much money on new vinyls and LEGOS but he had a great time. They didn’t ever eat dinner so Parker made a late night run to McDonald’s when we got home. He’s growing up!!!! Friday we will celebrate as a family at 3 Arch! Parker, you are my pride and joy. I love you forever!