Two Years Old

Since Andrew's actual birthday occurred while we were in Norway, we packed a couple small toys for him and had a small celebration there, but we saved the big event for the weekend after.  Grandma and Grandpa were in town, so they got to visit.  Grandma's birthday is in a couple of weeks so we made it a joint celebration.

We decided to spread the present out over the course of the day, to give him time to play with and enjoy them before the next onslaught came.  Since his bout of stomach flu, he's been really into Cars the movie, particularly Tow Mater, the hillbilly tow truck.  As much as I'd like to stay away from kid's marketing and branding, I have to say that it's addictive when I know that he likes the character, to walk through the store and just load up on something I know he'll love.

Shopping for kids is altogether too much fun.

All of the presents and cards

Round 1:  From Nana and Papa - a small, easy-open, handmade backpack, and the "Inside Freight Train" book.   Also, a Mickey Mouse puzzle exactly like one that Mama had when she was a kid.  (Thank you, rummage sale.)

Andrew took a break to go to story time at the library with Grandma and Grandpa.  He received new birthday sunglasses for the occasion.  (The balloon was supposed to be for Grandma, but who can resist the request of "Balloon - Andrew hold it!"?)

We served cake and ice cream after lunch so that, if anything, the sugar rush would disturb nap time and not night sleep.

Round 2: Cars bedsheets and a large stuffed Tow Mater truck.  Also Cars underpants.  I am a total sucker.  But also - the lure of the bedsheets got him to take a nap that day, and he finally transitioned to wearing underpants (instead of going commando).  So whatever works.  Also, some books and a fun card from Uncle Devin and Aunt Kathleen.

Round 3: Some cute Alaska socks from Grandma and Grandpa.  More puzzles, books, and underwear.  And a sturdy backpack from Mom and Dad to take on plane trips.

It was a really fun day.  It's fun to see him so into opening gifts and enjoying the stuff so much.  I'm so proud of the little boy he is becoming - so sweet and funny and a good problem solver and very creative.  I can't believe how far we've come.  It feels like he's been in my life forever, but it also seems like no time at all.

Happy Birthday, Andrew.