My big boy turned 4!

Last week we celebrated Wade's 4th birthday! Wade began the day by telling me that we should probably throw out all his old clothes because they were too small, he could only wear big clothes now that he was 4. Oh, and now he could reach things that were farther away since he was 4. Apparently a lot changes between the ages of 3 and 4. And actually, I can't really believe that he is 4 myself...

We went to Chuck E. Cheese's in the morning from 9-11, which I was worried would be too early, but it turned out to be an excellent time to go. The kids (Annabelle, Haley, Thomas, Wade and Small Jack) ran around and played games (which all only cost 25 cents each) until the pizza arrived at 10:30. Again, I thought it would be a little early for pizza, but even the adults who said they probably wouldn't be hungry yet ate a piece or two. And as Mary put it, Chuck E. Cheese pizza has improved greatly in the last 30 years :) It was really good. We sang happy birthday, ate cupcakes, and everyone left when they wanted to. It was very stress-free. And I didn't have to clean my house.

We came back home and I tried to lay Lily down for a nap, but she wasn't having any of it. I guess she didn't want to miss any of Wade's special day. So, we opened presents and Wade wanted to play with all of them, right now! He headed outside to play with his new wheelbarrow, gardening tools, dump truck and Star Wars nerf-type gun. Poor dogs, I think they got a few shots to the head before I noticed that Wade was using them for target practice.

I tried to lay Lily down again, but still no luck. So, I went out front to put her in the swing and Wade rode his new scooter in the street. It was harder than he anticipated, so he traded it in for his bike and then his wheelbarrow and Star Wars gun.

All-in-all Wade had a terrific day; Lily napped for about 30 minutes but wasn't cranky at all; and I had no stress about the party. Win!

Haley and Chuck E.

Jack & Wade on the carousel

What happens when you let a 4 year old loose in a the store with birthday money? 2 bags of marbles, 2 packs of army guys, a gumball machine/bank, a basketball and an army helicopter and jeep. Thanks Aunt Jay & Uncle Pat!

**Finally got the rest of my pictures uploaded. Thanks Mary!!**