Ezra's 12th Birthday

This year, for Ezra’s 12th birthday, he chose an Airbnb getaway instead of a party—my favorite way to celebrate as well. We spent quite some time searching online to find the perfect one, and it ended up being a blessing that it wasn’t too far away, right on Lake Murray.

We chose this one because it had so many amenities that appealed to him.

The boys enjoyed fishing off the dock, although they didn’t have much luck catching anything. 

The kayaks were a favorite way to explore the shoreline around us.

Ezra brought his RC car that works on water and had fun chasing his sister’s boat.

We grabbed dinner at a new local spot that had just opened nearby, and of course, it was burger night for the birthday boy. 

Then it was back “home” for a fire and s’mores.

Shiloh’s method: light the marshmallow completely on fire!

Beach and I enjoyed the warmth of the fire for a while while the kids soaked in the hot tub. 

It was a night full of snuggles and a later bedtime.

The next morning, everyone slept in, which was perfect for a chilly start to the day. Once it warmed up, the boys and I headed out for another round of kayaking, exploring a couple of small, uninhabited islands nearby.

When we got back, Ezra was brave enough to jump in the water. I made him wear a life preserver since it was only in the 60s outside and the water was even colder. I didn’t want him going into shock.

He was quick to get out, and it was definitely a one-time thing.

The afternoon was slow and relaxing, filled with snacks, sunshine, fishing, and reading. The girls also enjoyed some time out kayaking before we wrapped up the day....

(found some fun selfies on my phone)

 with dinner at a delicious lakeside restaurant right around the corner.

When we got back, we were greeted with such a beautiful sunset. We spent some more time outside, playing a little frisbee and soaking it all in.

With that kind of backdrop, we had to take some pictures. We got some really cute ones together, and the girls captured a few sweet ones as well.

It turned into another perfect night for a bonfire: more s’mores, more laughs, and just enjoying the time together.

The next morning, we slept in a bit, packed up, and said goodbye to our “home” and all the fun it had held. 

I loved getting to celebrate my favorite, amazing, sweet, thoughtful, adventure-loving 12-year-old, Ezra, and was so thankful for the beautiful weather that allowed us to celebrate in the best way.

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We still had a little more celebrating to do for our little bro. His actual birthday fell on a Sunday this year, and he got to open one gift before church.

Once we were back home, we had a belated breakfast. Ezra requested one of the large pancakes Beach makes. 

After that, he opened a few more gifts.

Pickle chips from his sister, Zoe!

More treasures from his sister...

and parents.

We then headed to my parents’ house for lunch, where he had even more love and gifts waiting for him.

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Ezra’s last gift was hand-delivered by Grandpa—an awesome car card, a DeLorean.

It was the same type of car Glenn had actually put together in his younger years, and he even had a picture to prove it.

Ezra was also given a fun antique Mr. Peanut pen that had been in the family for some time, which they both seemed to really enjoy.

It was such a joy to celebrate Ezra in a way that felt so perfectly like him—full of adventure, curiosity, and fun. We are so thankful for the gift he is to our family.