A Day In The Life Of A Middle Schooler

Today I had the honor of being a chaperone for Joseph's field trip.
The middle school spent the first half of the day at the new Aquatics Center.
After lunch they headed over to Funzone for the afternoon.
There were kids everywhere!
They had a great time.
Thankfully, all things considered, the kids were pretty good!

Here's Joseph and friends in the whirlpool.


Now he and Tyler are on their way to shoot some hoops.


Here's a funny shot of Joseph's going down the slide in Air It Out.


Next up was riding go carts at Funzone.



Here's a put-put pic.


Last but not least, time for a chocolate milkshake!

Happy 13th Birthday Joseph

As promised, here's a peek into Joseph's 13th birthday celebration!

I started with a few simple decorations.
I love making my own bows, so I keep tons of curling ribbon on hand.
Just curling a few long strands and stringing them over the light added to the festivity.
Remember, this was for the man-child, so it couldn't be too "girly". ;>


I tried my hand at a mama-made banner.
I think I'm on to something.
Next time I'll reverse the papers so that the letters show up better.
Go ahead, try it for yourself and then send me pics!


Last but not last I added in the birthday boy himself, fresh from football practice.


Here are a few of his favorite presents...
New Under Armor sunglasses, a perfect accessory for the summer.

And a new CO2 Airsoft gun, thanks Boompa and Gigi!

Of course he also received quite a bit of cash.
My boys LOVE having their own money.

Everyone get together for a few pics.
Franny and Claire

The Hinson Four


Finally, it was time for thank you hugs.


Thanks everyone for helping Joseph welcome in the teen years.
I've asked him not to turn into a weird teenager anytime soon.
He promises to stay his same sweet, charming self and I'm sure he will!

Who Is This Man-Child?

Who is this man-child that lives in my home?
He once was a babe, but now is half grown.


I took this picture last week while Joseph was getting ready for school.
Look at those broad shoulders!


Just this morning I came across this picture.
Joseph was about three months old and I was a little younger myself. ;>


Joseph celebrates his thirteenth birthday tomorrow.
Here's the napkin note in his lunch today.


I publish this post as I fight back tears.
Not tears of sadness.
Tears of joy.
For the child you have been.
And the man you're becoming.

Son I love you and can't even begin to put into words the way you changed my life...
For the better...
Forever!

Enjoy your last day of twelve and remember...
You'll always be my baby! :)

2nd Annual Airsoft War

We here At Home With The Hinsons have unintentionally started a new tradition. It seams we host a neighborhood airsoft war on Good Friday?!
You see the kids are always out of school on Good Friday. And this year we have an added bonus, the cousins are here.
Last year I actually conned a few of the guys into helping me stuff eggs for the Easter Egg Hunt at church! I also felt it was my duty to discuss with them what Good Friday is all about. I'll lure them with food later and then we'll have that talk again. :D
So for our 2nd year we have the rowdiest bunch in town, all armed and dangerous.
Here's a glimpse of the crew... I've heard there are more on there way!?!