Nick Nack Turns 3!

Today was Nic Nac's birthday party. It's hard to say how we felt today - Ron and I are more and more relieved every day he gets bigger and stronger and smarter but at the same time, it's hard to see him grow and get older and more independent. Even though Nick is doing great, the passing of time is always a reminder that we might not always be this lucky. It makes us more grateful, it make us more scared, it makes us more confident and makes us more unsure. But no matter the uncertainties, I do know that I want Nick to have a fabulous birthday with lots of friends and activities and presents and the best cake ever. So we started with his favorite movie - Cars.

For everyone who's ever been to one of our birthdays you know that means Cars EVERYTHING! Cars balloons, plates, table cloths, toys, invitations and it wouldn't be complete without a kick @##, home made Lightening McQueen cake.

Nick has quite a few little friends from the neighborhood. They don't all know each other but they all came out to celebrate with Nick and they all seemed to have a great time together. It wasn't pool season yet but they ran around the yard, played in the playroom and listened to Mr. Mark, a musician friend of mine that came by and played guitar for them.

Although we missed having family and friends from back home, at least Nick had a great time. He pretty much got every Cars toy imaginable, at least what he didn't already have (including McQueen bathing suit, towel, couch and suitcase for our upcoming trip to NY) and when it was time for cake, he didn't disappoint us. The video is below so you can see for yourself but it was the sweetest and most genuine smile I've ever seen. He's so appreciative of the people around him and the attention he receives - it's just a pleasure to be with him and watch him grow and experience things. Originally, and for these past couple of years, I've been sad that we are not closer to family so they can share our kids with us. But no matter who was there and wasn't there, or how many things he got, Nick is grateful and loving no matter what.

So here are a few moments from the party so you can see for yourself just how kool it is to be Nick and to be 3!