Alex's 9th Birthday

On Saturday morning, Alex woke up in Liberty, Missouri, at Bethany's sister Charla's house, as a nine year old. After telling him "happy birthday," we quickly rushed out the door to the "Eye on AIDS" 5k/10k race at Doug & Char's church. Bethany finished 2nd in her division and set her personal best time! Doug took third in his age group despite stopping during the race to tie his shoe. Char had to volunteer to work at the event, so she couldn't race. Afterwards, we enjoyed a pancake breakfast which was very tasty and filling.

Immediately after filling our bellies, we rushed to cousin Olivia's volleyball match and enjoyed watching her team win two out of three games. Then we hurried back to the Hecker House for Alex's birthday party. He opened presents, blew out the candles, scarfed down a piece of delicious German chocolate cake made by Grandma Glee, and then changed into his football uniform.

We left Liberty at 11:45 am and got to Alex's football game in Ashland at 2:15 (after a quick stop for lunch in Boonville). There, Alex's Southern Boone County (Ashland) Eagles defeated the Hallsville Indians 48-0. It could have been even more lopsided, but the coach decided to give five different players a chance to play quarterback during the second half. Alex rushed the oppposing quarterback really well on one particular play and forced him to heave a desperation pass to avoid the sack. The pass was intercepted and led to an Eagle touchdown two plays later. In the past two games, the Eagles have outscored their opponents 90-0! They are now 2-1 on the season, with a chance at revenge against Moberly coming next week.

After the game, we joined our neighbors for their annual bonfire and hayride. Truman loved riding behind the old tractor and Alex had a ball while running and playing with a bunch of other kids around his age. We ate venison chili, drank some tasty beverages, and finally called it a day at 11:00. When Alex was asked if he enjoyed his birthday he said, "This was the best birthday ever!"

It certainly was the busiest. I think the couch and I have an appointment this afternoon.