Another birthday come and gone so quickly. It kills me that these kids won’t stay little!

Last year Archer and his Papa celebrated their birthdays together. That went over so well that we asked if we could do it again this year. Papa agreed!

So we gathered the entire family around to celebrate our brand new 5-year-old and man-who-is-not-quite-50 🙂 Both sides of our families made the trip down to celebrate two of our favorite guys.

We had some serious party prep helpers, and I must give them their accolades:

My sister Cami whipped up these carnival / unicorn themed cupcakes for the party:

Kaye & Arrow were on cotton candy duty

… while I sneakily took mouthfuls when they weren’t watching

Maddie covered the lemonade while Taylor set up the tacos (likely by taste testing all the salsas)

Lots of bustle in the kitchen. I remember being assigned to mind the chili but given the amount of photos here, someone else must have taken over that job 😛

My mom, who is a serious party planner, did so much of the organizing, themed decor, and probably so much more than I even realize. Thank you Mom!

Once the party was underway, we ate & drank merrily:

Pictures of the birthday boys as babies were put on display. I forgot to grab a full photo of the display, but you can see a peek of it in the far right & middle below:

Here are a couple of the pictures blown up. First, let’s start with my dad:

And one more, just for the heck of it:

Grandpa McKeeth & Uncle Randy have since passed away, so it’s a treasure to have their photos present this little party ❤

And of course, my dear little Archer had his turn in the spotlight. I mean, just look at this baby. Why are you not on your knees and worshipping this perfect little face? I can still feel the feel of those soft forehead wrinkles against my lips. (I am a smother-in-kisses kind of mom 🙂 )

Back to the party. After dinner, my Uncle Darren put on a magic show:

My favorite niece absolutely refused to make contact with me.

Chaun: Hi baby girl! Can I hold you?

Niece: No.

Chaun: That’s ok! Can I sit by you?

Niece: NO.

Chaun: I respect that baby girl. I’m just gonna sit on the far end of the next square mile if that’s cool with you?

Niece: NO!!!

Her antics are absolutely hilarious, and I adore her even more for them.

Gifts were opened:

I got my dad this puzzle box, which I’m pleased to say kept him puzzled for maaaaybe 10 minutes. He’s too clever. But that’s a challenge I’m willing to take. Watch out, Pops, next year’s puzzle is gonna wreck you!

It was such a lovely evening celebrating Papa and Archer, two people whom our family wouldn’t be complete without. Love you so much!!