A boy is a magical creature - you can lock him out of your workshop, but you can't lock him out of your heart.  ~Allan Beck

It's Marcus's 12th birthday today and he is spending it at Camp Buffalo, aka Boy Scout camp.  Of course, knowing he would be spending his birthday at camp, Marcus's chief concern was when he would get to open his presents.  Us, being the kind parents that we are, decided we would celebrate his birthday on the 4th of July.  

Marcus made his wish list of birthday things.  Ok.  We got him everything he asked for.  Some of the stuff he asked for: larger soccer ball, new goalie gloves, Marcus needed anyway for the next soccer season.  

New headphones.  Our kids don't like earbuds.

Bigger soccer ball-Liam and Kella wanted in this picture, too.  

New goalie gloves!

Trying out the new gear.  Cale inherited the old gloves for as long as they last.

Sporting his new soccer jersey and shorts.

Kinley approves.

Time for cake.  Marcus picked out a devils food cake with white chocolate frosting.  

It took 3 tries to get all 12 candles out!

The rest of the night contained cake, ice cream and fire works.  And then a late night rush to pack for camp the next day.

Ah, the picture with Dad.

And, with Mom.  I still have a couple of inches on Marcus.  At least for a little bit longer.

Son, you outgrew my lap, but never my heart.  ~Author Unknown