Ode to a 3 Year Old!

Happy Birthday, Hayden!!! It's hard to believe that 3 years ago today, I became a mommy! Wow...it's definitely been a wonderful 3 years, yet stressful at times learning to become a parent, and then learning how to be a parent to 2 children! Once a co-worker told me, "You're not really a parent until you have 2 kids." I was a little offended at first, but I'm sure what he meant was that you have to really juggle yourself and your time in order to get it all done. One is easy, two is tough, but once you get to three, you can handle anything. (Right, Kelley??)

Hayden is very full of life, and questions, and energy. Lots and lots of energy. We've had a ton of family in our home over the past couple of weeks and he's enjoyed playing with them. He has aquired the Meredith love for games. I hate playing games but Hayden instantly became a fan of playing "Go, Fish" this weekend with his 1st set of cards.

His speech has become so clear and he talks all of the time! He asks so many questions that I have to start giving him really big answers, just so he'll have to stop and think for a minute. The best question of the week was today, "Mom, why birthdays"? I responded with about a full minute's answer on they were a day when mommy's got very sentimental about their babies, and did all kinds of crazy things for their special day...needless to say, he didn't ask another question for a few minutes. Josh had a good laugh at my answer and tactic.

So, sweet Haydenman, we love you so much and love all of the excitement you bring to our home. We love that you are so full of life and energy. Thank you for loving your brother and welcoming him into our home with open arms (and lots of kisses) even though his crying (& screaming) may get to you. We love you so much and can't wait to see how God uses you and
continues to teach us about His love and grace.

Here are a few pics from the big day:

Licking a little icing from the Lightning McQueenn cake

Hayden & Daddy in the pool (looking a little Leo-ish, from Little Einstein's)

{When Hayden found out his birthday was coming, he asked for a birthday hat. Apparently, you can't have a birthday, without a hat. So, the hat made several appearances throughout the day.}

Momma & her sweet Birthday Boy

Mommas have to get excited over every gift...

Hudson got to try out the birthday hat

Even Ginger got to wear the famous birthday hat