The Big Five

Yesterday was Arwen’s fifth birthday. Weeks ago we negotiated her celebration – she did well, convincing us to invite our Camp Liberty families plus Ben and Nancy and kids for a Dora adventure – “The Quest for the Perfect Christmas Tree.”

Right after school everyone arrived at our place, then embarked on the quest. Those familiar with Dora’s adventures will recognize the format: “Rocks – Bridge – Forest!” Chad led the way with the help of his trusty map, and the kids were soon back with boughs discovered below the most perfect Christmas tree to be found in our nearby New England woods.

After some quick crafting to transform said boughs into decorative swags, we created a cacophony of carols, then Arwen attacked the pile of presents. Among her favorites were a Lego Star Wars t-shirt (worn to school today) and a plush wolf toy reminiscent of both kids’ recent obsession with Wolfquest.

Next the dads joined us for a potluck dinner, followed by cupcakes and ice cream. I had been pretty sure 23 people would push the limits of our little place, and I was right. But what a great chance to have all the gang together one last time – chaos notwithstanding, it was definitely worth it.

In other news, Chad and I got out on the town for dinner in honor of my birthday while the kids hung out at Nancy and Ben’s. We so appreciate the chance to share some conversation at our own pace and food not of our own making.

Gavin and I got some unexpected time together last week when he spent a day and a half home with a stomach bug. The highlight was watching together the documentary “Maya Lin: A Strong Clear Vision” for my class. The story of this female Asian Yale undergraduate who rocked the world by winning a blind contest for the design of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial inspired Gavin to the point that he’s now determined to be an architect when he grows up. Not a bad idea for him, if you ask me!