Sam’s firetruck-train birthday party was lots of fun, and the fire truck really did show up—twice!  It showed up for the first time right at 10 AM before anyone had arrived.  I felt awful sending the firemen away for fear that they would not return, but off they went to do some grocery shopping and came back a bit later.  All hail, firemen of Chesterfield County!  The firemen were great guys—friendly, informative, patient and encouraging with the kiddos, and so proud of what they do. If only we all had such job satisfaction!  It was such a relief not to have to resort to the train sub-theme after all, not to mention the recent pirate fascination.

Last year Sam’s party was really big with loads of Mommy and Daddy Mac’s friends and their kids.  It was a lot of fun, but this year we really wanted it to be HIS party with his best buddies there to celebrate, so we only had five kids.  As a result I think he had a much better time because he didn’t feel bowled over by a tidal wave of strangers.  The guests seemed to have a better time, too, because it was more relaxed, and the ‘rents most definitely enjoyed themselves.  It was so nice to be able to actually have a conversation and enjoy the moment while still playing Hostess with the Mostess.

Sam was dying to open his presents from the minute his friends arrived.  When we told him that he could open them when they left, he started to ask, “Can my friends leave now?” Needless to say, we relented, and soon wrapping papers and toys were strewn everywhere.  They were a big hit until the cupcakes arrived and upstaged them all.  Ah, then we realized cupcakes are but a delivery device for the biggest attraction of all - FROSTING!!  Glad your party was filled with friends, frosting, and a fire-truck, Sam!  Take it from me - life doesn’t get much better than that.  It’s official - you are three!  Hope it’s the best year of your life—until you turn four!

LibbY