Chandler's Birthday

We have an odd tradition of putting some kind of toy on the kids' birthday cakes.  He really wanted a soccer ball and so I figured out a way to get it on there....  (plastic wrap)

Poor Chandler had his birthday smashed into the busy-ness of preparing Cache for his mission and getting the house/yard ready for a family reunion and mission farewell.  I think we still managed to make him happy--even though not much was wrapped and his 'big' present not even purchased (golf clubs--which finally arrived in July that he has LOVED).  He chose pork chops, roasted broccoli, rice, fruit salad and a strawberry shortcake.  

However badly mom flopped with birthday plans, the best thing about his birthday was that he was ordained a deacon!  I wanted the boys to get a few temple trips in together before Cache left, but with Chandler's week-long camp out the week before Cache left, there would not have been time for them to go.  So a few accommodations had to be made.  Chandler was presented to be ordained a deacon before he turned 12, then a bishopric member came over on his birthday (a Monday) and officiated in the ordination.  The next day the three were able to go and do a few baptisms.  They were able to get in a few more trips.  Such a great experience for brothers--one that at least Chandler will remember!            

A little four square (on lines being painted that day by Cache) while waiting for Brother Mefford to arrive for the ordination.  

Happy birthday, wonderful young man!