We threw Zander his first birthday party this year....not just any birthday party--a Star Wars party! I have to admit I was probably a little too ambitious, but there is so much good stuff out there on how to throw an awesome Star Wars party. Zander ended up inviting 16 friends but we only ended up with about half of them. Stephen and I made pool noodle lightsabers for the kids' party favors and we made our own Death Star pinata. We played pin the lightsaber on Yoda and then the kids had to go through Jedi training that included crawling through the ventilation system (a play tunnel) and do a somersault to sneak past the storm troopers. As they made their way downstairs a lone trooper spotted them and started shooting at them so they had to dodge the laser beams. Then we went back upstairs and they had to get through the lava field to earn their lightsabers. It was was a good thing too because we felt a great disturbance in the force and Darth Vader appeared and attacked! But the newly trained jedis were too powerful and defeated him. After taking on Darth Vader they were ready to take on the Death Star and destroy it. They reaped their rewards after the deed was done.
After the pinata we went back inside to sing Happy Birthday, eat cake, and open presents. Zander was in Star Wars heaven! He had an epic party; kids and parents were talking about it at church the next day.
Zander, you are growing up to be such a great kid. I love your enthusiasm, your love, and your snuggles. You are such a good big brother and so smart! We love you so much!
