Noah and I were able to go on a special Mommy/Son date tonight to celebrate his 12th birthday! We had such a nice time! First we went to Cabela's, a sporting goods store- which Noah informed me was the largest one in the world. I gave him a gift certificate to there and he knew immediately he wanted to buy a new airsoft gun. He took a great deal of time looking at each and every option. He had very specific features in mind. We finally found one that he liked and he was thrilled. Together we walked through the 'big game' displays, used up lots and lots of tokens playing the shooting game, taste-tested fudge- where he insisted I make our final selection, played Wii hunting games, fed the giant koi what appeared to be cat food for a quarter a handful...at one point he danced around not wanting to stop to go use the bathroom he was having such a nice time. We both were. After purchasing his gun, of which he was wonderfully grateful for, we went to Rodizio Grill. We both got quite full, quite fast but Noah's favorite by far was the grilled pineapple they brought around on the giant skewers. He was given a birthday 'flan.' He said thank you and then immediately turned to me to ask, "what is that?" He is such a joy to hang out with. He talks and talks. He is polite and gracious and so nice to be around. I am so proud of him! I love you, Noah Douglas! Happy 12th Birthday to the the most awesome son a mother could ask for!

P.S. The hat is Lexis' present to Noah!!