joost's 7th birthday party

This year's birthday party was an especially exciting party for Joost because, not only did family come (per usual), but he was also able to invite friends for the first time, as well. In our family it's a big deal because friend parties do not happen annually. When you have 11 cousins (and more on the way), that's usually enough energy to contain at one birthday shindig.

Fortunately, this summer was also the first time we are members at a local swimming pool--the perfect place for a party! Joost invited all the boys in his class and a buddy from church. Summer's hard because so many travel, but enough were able to come and he had a great day.

Unfortunately, I turned my camera over to an unnamed family member (always a dicey move) to capture the fun and emotions of the day and only few pictures are worth posting. (I'll take that up with that anonymous person later. ;)

Pictures or no pictures, it was a happy day for Joost. We love him for so many reasons. We are blessed to have him as our son and that is worth celebrating!