Joey's Birthday!!

I can't believe I survived this day. I am now the mother of one baby and one pre-schooler. Gone are the idyllic toddler years. What am I talking about?!?! They weren't all idyllic days. (Most were pretty close, though.)

Joey had a good day. He found it difficult to wait until this afternoon to be able to open presents and eat cake and ice cream. As soon as he woke up, I say, "Happy Birthday! You're three years old." Joey responds, "We go get my berbay cake?" From that moment on, it was a struggle to keep him focused away from his party and the spoils that come with a party.

Randy and Cheryl came over to help us celebrate. I was very proud of Joey that once they arrived, he didn't dig right in to his gifts. He actually played while the adults visited for awhile. Then we had cake and ice cream. His cake was a Disney/Pixar's Cars, covered in black, red, and green frosting with a yellow border. Talk about your colorful mouths! It was topped with a Lightning McQueen toy car that when you pull it back along the ground and then let go, it soars forward. Baby Nick was thrilled with his first taste of cake. He couldn't get enough. If I took time to take a bite for myself, he was screaming at me. I think he will dig in to his cake on his birthday. Today I only gave him a few bites. He will go crazy when it comes to eating his own piece!

Joey made out like a bandit. From Randy and Cheryl, he got a fishing pole and tackle box. Daddy was very excited about that. From Aunt Frieda, he got two shorts outfits and a movie. He also got "dehydrated" towels that expand in hot water. And Baby Nick got a new toy as well. Thank you, Aunt Frieda. From Grandma Mary, he got some stickers, a card game, an activity coloring book, play-doh, and a book of children's prayers. Thank you Grandma Mary. From Grandpa Chuck, he got a Hot Wheel car. Thank you Grandpa Chuck. From Uncle Josh and Aunt Stacei he got Band-Aid gum, Play-Doh, and a bubble blower. Thank you, Uncle Josh and Aunt Stacei. From Rachel, he got a miniature toy basketball and frog. Thank you, Rachel. From Nanny and Papa Buddy he got a LeapPad for pre-schoolers. Hopefully Joey will get to talk to each of you soon to say his own 'thank you" to each of you.

We have tons of cake left over, so you are all welcome to come have a piece.

I also want to wish Paul and Angie a very happy 12th Anniversary! I love you both and miss you very much.