We celebrated Samuel's 9th birthday a few weeks ago (16/02). The kids were off school that week (half-term) and Dean took the day off so we could spend the day together celebrating. 
We opened presents in our birthday tradition way - everyone piles on to our bed(I wonder what that will be like when they are teenagers?)- video cameras rolling etc. We had to rush a bit due to the fact that Dean had booked the bowling lane for 9:10 am!!! (1 pence a game before 9:30...bargain!) We picked up cousin Jonah and had a great time bowling. 
Last time we went bowling Levi was happy to remain in his pushchair - this time is was a completely different story! It may be a while before Levi comes bowling with us again...it was hard work!
We then grabbed some lunch before heading of the cinema! (Levi was booked in with Nanny, thank goodness!) Sam had asked for gifts of money this year. There was a particular toy that he wanted that was quite expensive. He was told by his parents to save his pocket money. Word got round to family members and Samuel soon had (more than) enough money to purchase his 'treasure'! We still felt it was a bit much for a boy to spend on one toy, but after a little investigation I found a shop that was selling it for £30 cheaper than most! So the day after his birthday we took him to the shop to purchase his 'treasure' - he was thrilled that he had money left over!
