Jack is 5.

And 5 is the big one, or at least the big party one, at this house.  Abe got to have a big party when he turned 5, now Jack.  I don't know if Charley is going to be able to wait until he turns 5.

It was a fun, crazy, busy day.  We went up to Lake Michigan the day before and had a blast playing on the beach.

So we were already tired to start the Saturday, but we did, with a decorated door to surprise Jack.

Then off to soccer with donuts and juice for the teammates (and brothers, obviously).  Then home to further prep for the party.  Dar had already worked on the obstacle course a bit, but needed to finish setting up.  I needed to decorate cupcakes and the cake.  And then the madness began.  In all actuality, the party was great -- it was almost eerily quiet at times in the beginning.  Lots of kids, but all good kids, and everyone got along well.  

These two are a troublesome duo... but they sure are cute!

The older pirates: Simon, Elise, Abe, Andrew, and Isabelle

Bardwell Band

Beautiful Mia

Obstacle Course start: Run up the gangplank to get your eyepatch and then slide down.

Getting the sword to slice the water balloons

Love the look on his face!

Pirates had to sword fight Abe before they could walk the plank.

Abe was awesome.... have to get this kid into theater.

Our old neighbors made the 2-hour drive to celebrate Jack.

Abe and Gianna -- they couldn't keep a straight face

With the pirate cake.... yep, blue frosting and brown sugar.

Yeah, I'd give this kid more cake too.

Love these sweet girls.

Everyone left fully armed.

I just love this picture.

Doesn't he look so innocent with that water balloon?

A little pin-the-eyepatch-on-the-pirate action

Some of the bigs escaping mayhem (or creating their own)

Treasure Chest Pinata

Our attempt to get a picture of all of the kids... not bad!

We had a great time celebrating with great friends.

And we celebrated the next day with lunch with Grandma, Grandpa, Mia, & Hadley.

What a precious anniversary gift this boy is.  Born on our 7th wedding anniversary, and we laugh every year that we can't imagine celebrating any other way.  Jack, you are such a source of joy for us.  And even though at times it can be exasperating (like when you're back to laughing seconds after you get in trouble), we can't imagine life without you.  You are so fun to be around.  I love your imagination, your smile, your heart, the way you love your brothers, the way you love to cuddle, your love of life and God, and the way you make everyone around you feel special.  As Miss Courtney says, "Jack for President."  We love you Jack Morey Mathison.  Grandpa Mathison nailed it on the head when he said, "You're a handful!"