Best Buds, Baseball, and Birthday Parties - Week of Aug. 10th

Before the ride begins...

After the ride...

“Well," said Pooh, "what I like best," and then he had to stop and think. Because although Eating Honey was a very good thing to do, there was a moment just before you began to eat it which was better than when you were, but he didn't know what it was called.” ~A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh

Waiting for what's to come can be thrilling, nerve-wracking, and overwhelming.  During the week, Michelle and Cam went to a fair where the almost-8-year-old took a ride in his first Tilt-A-Whirl.  He wasn't quite certain what to expect, but he declared that it was so much fun afterwards!
In anticipation of Cam's upcoming birthday, Emma asked us to set up a photo shoot for the two best buddies.  She was very specific about what, where, and which poses were to be taken.

It's so easy to take pictures with this pair because laughter, smiles, and silliness are an absolute given.  Even though the two pals aren't siblings, the friendship bond they share sure seems that way.

The Baseball Crew

The weekend was full of very big plans with the prospect of tons of fun.  On Saturday, we ventured up north for the 3rd Annual Cousin Harper's baseball game in Montague, MI.  It was a beautiful, sunny day and although it was warm, the game was a blast, especially for the younger kids.  After finishing up the ball game, everyone headed to Fricano's in Muskegon where we gobbled up delicious pizza.
Much to Cam's surprise (and his parents!), a birthday cake was presented, complete with baseball players and candles.  Some of Cam's cousins helped blow out the flames and then everyone enjoyed chocolate cake.  Jane's camera was missing from the action and if video would've been captured, Cam's elated face of astonishment would've told the story.  He even opened some early birthday gifts!  A big thanks for the sweet surprise...

Ryke's bday cake- A staple for Cam's birthday!
Special thanks for Oma & Opa for the pick-up.

Cam & Meg

On Sunday, Cam was hosting his 8th birthday celebration (one day before his birthday) in his backyard.  His request for the party?  Fire truck theme and the food of choice?  Breadsticks and  ice cream sundaes.  You wouldn't think the two go together, but the guests all decided the combo somehow worked.

Katherine, Cam, Molly

Cam up to bat, Will waiting his turn :)

After digging into the Little Caesar's bread and Country Dairy ice cream with choice of toppings, it was time for the kids to take a crack at the fire engine pinata!  Each of the kids took two swings every time and after quite a few bats, the candy finally tumbled out!

Uncle Ray had Cam cracking up,
pictured here with Aunt Mary

Cam declared that "this is the best birthday party ever!"

We can't thank everyone enough for coming and being a part of the festivities.  

And to think, his actual birthday was yet to come...