Captain Charles Turns 3...

Our little Pirate is 3 now! Charles you have changed so much over these last 6 months. Becoming more grown up and independent, continually pestering your big sister as only a brother can, and you approach everything in such a "boy" way. Jumping on or off everything, even if it's just to get into the car. When you give a hug you have to get a running start. You hate it when attention is brought to you when you are crying or hurt and likewise saying sorry is not the easiest thing for you to do. When we're driving you get so excited when we pass any tractors, trucks, or planes and you are quick to point out and say, "wook mommy, wook over dare...whoa mommy dat is huge!" Yet you really have a sensitive side too. I'm sure being surrounded by girls when daddy is at work helps nurture that trait. But I hope you never lose that compassionate side because you have always given the best hugs. We love you so much Charles and can't wait to see what the year of being 3 has in store!

No more tutu's, high heels, and fairy wings for this boy..Charles finally has boy dress up clothes

To celebrate we had a fun little dinner party yesterday with a few of Charles friends. It was a pirate themed party with pizza and cake. Charles just loved every minute of his party. Balloons, streamers, party noise makers, and pirate hats (that the kids decorated themselves), is all that was needed to get Charles super excited about his birthday. The pure joy on his face was so adorable. As a parent seeing your child's face light up as they jump up and down in excitement is the best.

The kiddos filling their tummies with pizza

Jack, Charles and Aniela enjoying some pretzels and hummus

Charlie was also excited because he figured 3 was old enough to get Charles his first nerf gun. Man oh man was that thing a hit. This morning when Charles woke up that nerf gun was the first thing he wanted. I had to pry it out of his hands to get his coat on for school. He also received a pirate playmobile from our neighbors, Megan, Katie and Jack. It is so neat, even Aniela can't stop playing with it. I have a feeling this is just the beginning to our future playmobile purchases. Charles buddy Colin and Caden also were there and gave Charles window markers and a train that he can paint and decorate all on his own. Being able to color on the glass patio door was a concept that Charles loved. He kept looking at me to make sure it was ok. He drew a beautiful piece of art on the window this morning and told me before he left for school not to erase it. The presents are continuing to come in from Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and cousins. Getting the packages in the mail has been such a treat for Charles. Kids love to get mail. So thank you everyone for making Charles 3rd birthday so special!

Charles right before bedtime..what else could a 3 year old ask for!