Ayden's 3rd Bday BASH

"Bash"

I think that appropriately describes the event. It was planned to be on the larger side, but I didn't realize just how much fun it was going to be for adults and kids alike.  I also didn't realize just how SPECTACULAR the new house would be for parties!!

We ended up with about 50 guests of all ages.  We had a Toy Story jumping castle, a buffet of mexican food and scrumptious cupcakes.  Despite being the 'invitor' of all these people, and obviously being friends  with them all.... the amount of kids that showed up was jaw dropping. I knew we were reproducing...but wow! It was awesome. The older ones entertained themselves, sometimes under the watchful eye of an adult...sometimes not...and the younger ones made their rounds from adoring arms to adoring arms.  We had kids swinging, kids riding bikes, kids playing with rocks, kids drawing on the sidewalk, kids sleeping (wahoo for a Gavin nap despite the party) kids in the playroom, out front, out back, in the family room, in the workroom.....phew!!  And yet, there was not the slightest sense of crowding - oh how we (and someday the kids [scary!]) are going to enjoy this home.

Without a doubt my most favorite part of the day was when we sang Ayden Happy Birthday. What would be really really cool is if I said here watch this video so you can get the full experience....but no. I failed you and myself yet again. No camera in my hand and no video....of the WHOLE PARTY!!  Thankfully, Hillary did some shooting. I will put a link at the bottom of the email for you to check them out :)

But...back to Ayden and the birthday song.

Everyone gathered around as we pulled Ayden from him concentrated playing into the big family room. Jeremy approached him, cupcake in hand and flaming #3 candle on top, as we all started to sing Happy Birthday. Between the number of voices and the acoustics of the huge tile-floored room, the sound was quite startling. And startle Ayden did. He gave a little jump, looked around in surprise, then decided that clearly he too should be singing, like everyone else, at the top of his lungs. As he sang (read, belted) he looked around searching for who in fact we were singing for. Not until about half way through the song did Ayden realize this was all for him; he was the center of the universe for that moment and he simply beamed. With a smile from cheek to cheek, Ayden blew out his candle.

We then proceeded to devour the delicious cupcakes.

The party and company was purely perfect. Thank you for all who were able to come and celebrate Ayden's big day with us as well as to those who sent their love and well wishes.

Here are pictures from the Ayden's Party.