Magnus is Eight AND Great

We just wrapped up an entire week of celebrating Magnus turning eight.  On his real birthday he was celebrated with an early pickup by the grandparents followed by a visit to the skateboard shop for his very first board.  By evening we gathered at our neighborhood burger spot and ended the day with ice cream and gifts.

 The theme of the day's gifts was "things that go." A skateboard, stilts, and a brand new bicycle overshadowed the manta ray stuffy, various Minecraft legos, and clothes he received.

This weekend we celebrated him with a big party at the our neighborhood museum, the Randall.  Typically we invite friends and family, but as the middle child Magnus rarely has other kids his age around, so we invited his whole 2nd grade class and then some. We took over a shady spot behind the museum, which has newly redone exhibits about California's natural history and wildlife.  Visiting the museum is always free, but the surrounding views are worth a million bucks.

 
The party was a team effort as usual, with Farmor providing fun outdoor games and kid friendly food,  and Lola and Lolo helping with various necessities. I made baguette sandwiches for the parents, and a few hearty salads (Magnus' favorite!)

 
The least "squeeky" of the three wheels, Magnus sets himself apart by being unapologetically himself.  It's common to find him leading a game at the playground or making others laugh; the boy knows how to bring the fun wherever he goes.  He still deeply admires his older brother, but plays with and cares for Anders with endearing sweetness.  Above all, I most admire his resilience--  Magnus takes on challenges with a smile, including getting braces just last month.