B's 5th B-day party

Brandon requested to have his birthday party at the house and wanted Wall-E for the theme (again).  It was a lot harder to find Wall-E items this year, but thanks to Amazon for always having what I need!!!!
It was a beautiful January day, unseasonably warm, but great weather for an outdoor party!  We invited our usual friends and family but also included his preschool class this year...to add to Momma's stress. 
The party was a success, I know this as Brandon kept saying, "Best. Day. Ever".  And with the potential of 15 kids under the age of 10 we decided to rent a bouncy castle and the kiddos all loved it.
Per Brandon's request, we also had a craft station (although I don't think he left the bouncy castle except to get a drink of water and eat cupcakes) and a pinata.
It was a great day and Brandon (and all the kids) had a great time!  Thanks to all.....

Happy 5th Birthday Brandon!!!!!

 Brandon started his morning by getting to open his gifts from Aunt Gail and Grandma Diane! 

 Next, a trip to the zoo!

 followed by dinner at The California Pizza Kitchen with Grandma Diane

Daddy got Brandon a special gift, his very own glove and balls...we are preparing for tee ball after all

and finally opening gifts at home!  His was thrilled to find that we had gotten him Snap Circuits!!!! 

Soakin up the sun...

It stopped working so Mason decided to inspect the battery for himself! 

Warm winter days are why we live in the dessert!  The boys and I have been soaking up the dessert sunshine while it seems the rest of country has been cold and snowy. 

Science time....

Brandon is my budding little scientist!  Today we spent time mixing "acid" and "base" to watch the colors change and to make it fizz and bubble!  He was so excited but don't worry we only used citric acid and sodium bicarb.  He curiosity is ENDLESS.....

Legos, legos galore!

We do love putting together our Lego's and then playing with them for hours!  And for those who don't know, they are like little daggers when you accidentally step on them during the night!

Kiddos & cake

We do love spending time at Great-Grandma Dudley's, especially when the weather has been so nice.

Sweet little Brooklyn

Mason and Daddy playing ball

Brandon's favorite gal

Happy birthday Brian & Anne!

Aunt Gail has to get her snuggles in while she can!

Another year comes to a close with the usual celebration of the late December birthdays! 

Christmas day at Grandma Payne's

Mason, Brooklyn, Ashley, Brandon, Easton, Melanie, Taylor....all the Payne grandkiddos

Spending time with Aunt Gail....

Christmas 2013 was a whirlwind of family and fun.  This year I had to work Christmas day but met up with my boys at Diane's house for Christmas dinner.  The boys got to spend some quality time with Aunt Gail, G-G Dudley, and Grandma this week, which is always fun.  A big thank you to everyone for the Christmas gifts and for carving out time to spend with us!!!!