Joshua is 3 today!

Our baby boy is 3 today, and we had quite the weekend of birthday festivities and celebrations! I'll summarize the events in 3 parts:

Part 1 - Birthday Party at Nibbles Play Cafe on Friday, May 22nd.

Joshua had a fun time with his little friends at Nibbles. It was very stress-free for me (definitely the way to go!), and the kids all seem to have a good time. They were able to play in the different "play areas", had a pizza lunch, and then, we sang "Happy Birthday" to Joshua. All of which took place before 12pm!
Joshua loved his presents, especially the Geo Trax ones! He was in 7th heaven, and was only too eager to put the tracks together and start playing with the trains!

Part 2: Day at the zoo on Monday, May 25th (Memorial Day)

I don't know how it happened, but it is now a tradition that we go to the Brookfield Zoo as part of Joshua's birthday festivities. It's so amazing to see how much he has grown, and is really appreciating the animals, and able to identify them and take an interest in them. This is also Jenna's first visit to the zoo!

We've always packed a picnic lunch. After we ate, Joshua played on some of the playground equipment. To our surprise, and much to my delight, he was really good at the mini rock-climbing wall! He scurried up there in no time, and when he reached the top, he'd raise his arms in the air and jump up and down, saying "Yeah!". He was really proud of himself. Now, I need to go find my old harness and dust it off. Finally, I may be able to go rock climbing with someone again!

After the zoo, we went back to Mimi and Papa's and continued the birthday celebrations. Jane had made a train cake for Joshua's birthday (she's so talented!). After the cookout of brats (yum!), we had the cake, and Joshua opened his presents from the grandparents.

Part 3: Bowling at Pinstripes today, May 26th, Joshua's actual birthday!

Jared was able to take the morning off, and we went to Pinstripes so that Joshua could bowl. He had his "Birthday Boy" t-shirt on, and enjoyed 2 games of bowling. After which, we went to McDonald's for lunch. Of course, the birthday boy had a Happy Meal! Joshua was so patient, because he didn't open his presents from us till after Jared got home from work! We had to save the best present for last! Joshua got a brand new bike for his birthday! We're looking forward to teaching him how to ride a bike this summer!

He wanted to clean - I didn't make him!

A tender moment between Joshua and Jenna.

Jared and I were looking through Joshua's baby pictures later that night. Gosh, it seems like only yesterday that he was born. Another year older, another year closer to letting go. I pray that I will relish these toddler years...oops, I mean preschool years (yikes!). I'm so thankful that I get to stay home right now and spend these crucial, growing up years with Joshua. Every hug, every glance, every smile, leaves an impression on my heart. He is such a blessing and joy in our lives. We can't imagine life without him. We love you, Joshua! With all our hearts!