June 11th we celebrated another milestone: David's 13th birthday! Although shamelessly using the title to a recent movie, it's very applicable since he is maturing beyond his years.
First came many Birthday cards. He was impressed with one that Bill bought in Kazakhstan since the picture on the front even looks like David, but REALLY liked the ones which came with money or gift cards.
As quickly as he and Kate mstered the art of gift cards, you would never suspect that they weren't born in a mall somewhere! David has also dubbed Toys-R-Us as "Toys for Us!" (afterall, the backwards "R" is "Ya" in Russian, which means "me")
In all honesty, David was overwhelmed and thought that all the gifts were just too many.
One of the most thoughtful gifts came from our neighbors Carl and Suzie a few doors up: Two Harry Potter books and "Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator" (sequal to Charlie in the Chocolate Factory) in Russian. (
http://www.adoptedfromrussia.com/ is a great resource!)
In addition to the books, cash and gift cards, David scored a few other cool gifts like a tennis racket, a couple games for his Nintendo DS, Charlotte's Web and Stuart Little (also in Russian) and a couple gag gifts which parents everywhere will appreciate: socks and pajamas (we decided not to embarass him with new Панталоне (underwear)).
Before long, it was time for cake and singing. Cathe found a guy a few years back who makes custom cakes as a hobby. Who knows, he could give the "Ace of Cakes" team a good run for their money!
Last, but not least, was a very thoughtful card that Kate picked out. Her inscription: "To a great brother. I love David." She really appreciates all that he did for her during their though years and really shows it.
