Taylor's Birthday Party

Chaos. That was the sight of Taylor's birthday party. Although chaos may sound like a good name for a birthday joint for 7 year olds, chaos and bedlam seemed to be apt descriptors of my kitchen and family room this evening.

Sure 9 seven year-olds sounded like a good idea at the time, but man you would think that the volume would eventually decrease when they realized that no one was listening to you yell. But in the mind of a 7 year-old, if they aren't listening then you obviously aren't talking (yelling) loud enough. And thus we had decible levels in the house that seemed to challenge my rememberence of the Oingo Boingo concert I went to in '89.

The evening appeared to be a smashing success. Though a word of warning, keep the little dingos on a leash when you have a piniata. The minute that thing cracked and spilled its hidden goods, the candy was quickly covered by a mass of scratching, clawing, territorial seven year olds--each clawing and scavenging for the last bit of candy covering the floor. One of the kids quickly amassed at least half the candy and was guarding it verociously, swatting every hand that reached for there share. I finally had to inspect everyone's bag and divide up the candy so that everyone got something. I can chuckle about it now, but at the time I was about to explode as a result of all the "that's mine" that I heard. Wow.

Taylor's 7^th Birthday

Seven years ago today, Taylor joined our little family. It was a rather interesting delivery. He gave us a little scare, but has been a delight from then on.

He has a natural curiosity that is refreshing. His brain seems to always be on. From the time he was three when he began listening to Ky learn to read, and thus taught himself to read, to today he is naturally curious. He is quick to laugh, to tell a joke, to enjoy life. But he is still as stubborn as all get out--he is very much a Berrett in that regard. He is always willing to express his ideas, even when that ends up correcting Mom or Dad's misspoken word.

Knock, Knock!

Who's There?

I don't know.

I don't know who?

I don't know either.

That is Taylor's favorite joke. He's a little nut.

Taylor has a zest for life. It is rare to see him down--well except when he is stuck in the music room because he won't practice. Outside of that room, his joy for life is contagious.

Happy Birthday Taylor. Seven years ago today was a good day, and you have made each day better for being a part of my life.

--Dad