On Thursday, 4th October, we celebrated Jackson's 3rd birthday. He now says, "I am number three," or "I am a big boy," if you ask him how old he is. His understanding of what a birthday party is has changed so much from last year. Once he knew he was going to have a birthday party at home, Jackson waited at the door to welcome "the people" even though the party was days away. When Jackson saw all of the balloons and decorations, he very emphatically said, "Oh, thank you!" and gave Lee and I big hugs. He is such a little treasure.
We couldn't have asked for better weather--and health--this year! We were so lucky to have dry, sunny, and moderately warm weather for an outdoor party. And as for the health, the last two years, we were in the Ormskirk hospital on the day or a week after Jackson's party. Thankfully, this year, everyone was healthy and thoroughly enjoyed the party in the sunshine.
The theme for this year was Disney's Cars. I made a cake and attempted to create a racetrack on the top. This was really difficult as it was my first time using fondant and I only make one cake a year, so even the application of the buttercream frosting around the edges proved to be a challenge. In the end, Jackson loved his "racetrack cake" and everybody said that it tasted good. (Phew! Until next year . . . ) Also, while Lee and I were running around the house with last minute preparations, Jackson, who is usually happy to play independently, caught my eye because I noticed a light green spot on his face. It was a splotch of buttercream frosting. I ran to the cake and took a good look. One of the cars had been rolled through the grassy icing and placed onto the track and there were about ten holes along the side of the cake poking through to the Devil's Food chocolate. "Jackson! Did you eat some frosting?" He merely cowered his head and slowly nodded. Then, he said, "Sorry, Mommy." I did what I could to correct the cake to its original 'splendour' and tried to just let it go. Remember what I said about the good health? Honestly, I will take a little cake blunder over having to worry about my son's well-being.
Jackson had a wonderful time with his little friends and cousins. We set up a ball pit in the backyard with a slide leading into it which turned out to be a big hit. Then, there was an inflatable tyre which was used as a beanbag toss target. Lee and I made a Hot Wheels racing board out of wood and chalkboard paint and that was surprisingly a hit with the kids, too. And, we were pleased that everyone ended up staying an extra hour-and-a-half! For people who rarely get out and about, apparently we throw one 'belter' of a party.
In England, everyone opens their presents after the guests leave. I'm not sure how old this tradition is or why it started, but after going to many children's parties, this seems to be the pattern. It's a nice way to keep the party going, though, and to extend the enjoyment for little tots who want it to be their "party day" every day. The 'big gifts' for Jackson this year were his red balance bike (which he calls his "motorbike") and his Micro Scalextric (which is a remote controlled race track with two cars). The first day we set-up the track, he mastered holding both remote controls and racing the cars against each other!
When he woke up on Sunday, Jackson said, "My party? One more time?"
Happy birthday, Jackson!
Jackson has a method of opening presents: He will say, "Oh wow!" only when every bit of paper has been removed--even though the picture on the outside of the box has been clearly visible for at least three minutes.
Day of the birthday party
Taking a dance break
Jackson really enjoys when everyone sings "Happy Birthday" to him
Impromptu story time with Ralph's dad. After the children had their food, cake, and ice cream, they were ready to play indoors for a bit and have a little rest time.
"Ready, set, go!"
Happy to open all of his presents from his friends
It's my party and I'll sleep if I want to.
A peaceful end to a very exciting day!
If you see Sammie Miles Davis, Jr. and Bella, give them my love.
