Kaden is 7!

One of Ben's favorite birthday "cakes" is lemon meringue pie with graham cracker crust, like his mom makes.  

While eating this pie back in May, Kaden suddenly realized that he could have ANY dessert for HIS birthday and said he wanted the same thing. 

 So I got Laci's recipe, borrowed her mixer, invited Julie over, and together we made a REAL-DEAL big-girl pie... just like grandma used to make... only better. 

(and it wasn't nearly as hard as I had made it in my mind.)

 Owen approved meringue.

Mamma's first meringue!

(pre-oven bake)

 birthday boy

 Even though it was the 2nd day of school, the boys were able to get together and have some birthday-sprinkler time in Seals backyard. 

 opening a package from Mary...

 In addition to LaBella making a GIANT pizza (at a real reasonable price)

they will also SPELL YOUR NAME IN PEPPERONI upon request.  

 Name on a pizza might be a birthday trend around here...

(Thanks for the heads-up, Julie!)

 Grace clearly enjoyed the pie.

 presents from Africa, including a wooden puzzle, a YODA alarm clock, and a certificate naming Kaden as the foster parent of a baby elephant in Kenya.

Thank you, Dorothy & Juan!

This year we got Kaden "activities" 

which included 10 piano lessons with Sarah Black, a trip to a brush with art with a buddy, and another trip to the A.R.C.H. (Amarillo Rock Climbing House).