Zach's 12th Birthday!

When did this child grow up from underneath me?  At age 12, Zach is 5'6", weighs 170 lbs, & wears a size 14 men's shoe.  It's crazy!  Along with that BIG body, Zach has quite the personality! 

12 Things about Zach on his 12th Birthday:

1.  He is a gentle giant & kind to others - always sticking up for the "underdog"

2.  He has a great sense of humor

3.  Is a great story teller & a great speaker (you should hear his speeches he gives in school)

4.  An amazing athlete & has a true passion for sports

5.  Is a hard worker & motivated easily

6.  Is always willing to help when Jim & I ask

7.  Loves animals & is best friends with Libby

8.  Loves the outdoors & could spend every waking minute outside if we allowed it

9.  Is always hot & hence I have to argue with him to wear a coat in the winter

10.  He eats us out of house & home (eats breakfast, 2nd breakfast, lunch, 2nd lunch, & so on...)

11.  He idolizes his Dad so much & it is super sweet! 

12.  He is my favorite middle child! 

This year for Zach's 12th birthday we started off the day by decorating his bedroom door.  He was surprised when he woke up:

Off to school:

Zach chose to order in for his birthday meal.  We got his favorite - a double cheeseburger from 5 Guys & a Burger AND mac-n-cheese from Noodles & Co. 

And I had to make his favorite cupcakes

After dinner, Zach had to run off to basketball practice.  But after his practice, we all went to pick him up & headed to the movie theater to see Hugo.  It was a fun, packed day!

My grown 12 year old boy:

To finish up Zach's birthday celebration, our family will be going to the Vikings/Saints game on Sunday.  Drew Brees is Zach's all time favorite player.  So he plans to wear his Saints jersey & cheer for the other team.  He's super excited!