Birthday Boy

This was taken as soon as we get home from school. He had been waiting to open his gifts since he woke in the morning, but since we knew he would want to take his presents to school, we didn't let him.

He had birthday party in the afternoon. I brought cup cakes that I ordered from WalMart. It was decorated the same as regular cakes, except they are cupcakes. It worked well for school because we didn't have to cut it up. It was a Cars theme cake. I also brought vanilla ice cream and cookies. We all sang to him and he blew out his candles and they all ate quietly! After everything was cleaned up, I put Cars tattoo on everyone. I was worried that only the boys would like it but the girls liked it too. I had party bags for everyone that were there, full of everything Cars of course.

When we got home, he was finally given his gifts. He got everything Cars from his Nana and Papaw and I got him a toy vacuum (this one was overdue since I promised it to him one day when I went to the store by myself, but the store was out of stock!). Daddy got him a military helicopter with a motorcyle (we had to get rid of the guns) and his sisters got him Tonka service vehicles. They were all a hit with him!!

But with me being stressed out trying to get everything for the party at school on time, that when I got there, I forgot to take pictures. Bad mommy!!

Happy 3rd Birthday, Buddy!

Three years ago today, you made a very loud entrance into the world. You were the most handsome baby we'd ever seen, and it's gotta be said, you were also the biggest. Everyone in the Labor & Delivery floor in the hospital came to see the "big baby".

You were a challenging baby. Mommy had to learn to do everything one-handed because you refused to be put down. You also refused to sleep. It was as if you didn't want to miss any second of anything exciting that may happen.

You continually amazed us as a baby. Every time I thought you may get cranky, you would be in your best behavior, especially in public. You reserved your crankiness in the comfort of our home.

You were always ahead in your motor skills, but it wasn't until 2 1/2 that your verbal skills took off. And oh, how it took off. Everyday, Daddy and I are always amused by the stories you tell.

You are a loving big brother. You welcomed your sisters with open arms. They were YOUR babies. You are a bit rough, and also super protective. But you have to be, with 2 sisters to fend for all your life. I'm sure you and Daddy will have the greatest time scaring suitors away.

Matty, you and I are both strong-willed and so we've butted heads many times, but know that I will always love you. Both Daddy and I are doing our best, but being the first child, we don't always do very well. From day 1, you've always known what you want and don't want and been very vocal about it. And this hasn't changed now that you're getting bigger. You are highly independent. When you were 15 months old, you walked away from me when we were in the park, just to see a man mowing the grounds. You got as far as 30 feet away without even glancing back once. I was worried, but also very proud. I just knew you would grow up to be a very independent, confident, sensitive adult. Daddy and I will do our best to nurture your little soul.

Happy Birthday, Matty.


(Torturing Katie with his big boy hugs)