Arrg Matey

For Grayson's 5th birthday party, he wanted a pirate-themed celebration (right up until a few days before and then he wanted a lego party, but that ship had sailed). We decked out his buddies in pirate garb and sent them on a treasure hunt.

Here's the birthday boy aka Captain Hook

This one is blurry, but I love how even little Nora joined the pirate crew with her temporary tattoo

Gray all dressed up and waiting for the fun to begin. When did he turn into such a boy? 

Gray having a pirate sword fight with a few of his cousins Jack, Luke and Holten

Emma helping me corral a few of the kiddos right before the treasure hunt started. Gray is holding the treasure map that led to the first clue. There were five clues hidden around the yard, all leading to a treasure chest under our bench near the shed. I thought they would need more help going from one clue to the next, but they all worked together and solved each riddle with minimal adult help.

This is when they got the chest open. I should have taken a video because of all the shrieks and screams. They really thought they found treasure. Of course, it was about $3 worth of fake jewel rings, mardi gras bead necklaces and some fake gold doubloons. The best was when Luke started cramming gold coins in his pockets. Hilarious!

Here's Miss Bea mustering up her best pirate face to scare me off from taking her newfound treasure. So intimidating!

Next it was time for some cookie cake!

Getting all sugared up before swimming (and properly ruining their lunch since this was taken about 10:30 a.m.)

Luke and Gray playing on the slackline

We had a houseful, but are so blessed to have a great group of friends and family who could join us to celebrate Grayson's special day. I love watching how the group of kids grow each year and adding more to the brood.