Rowan is 3!!!!

I really can’t believe it. I don’t know what it is about 3, but it just seems so old. I will never ever forget looking at him the for the first time, in disbelief that he was really here, and really mine. I still stare at him a lot, and think the same thing, even though he’s not so little anymore.

A lot of people talk about the “terrible twos.” I honestly loved Rowan being 2. His vocabulary has exploded more and more and he really didn’t throw too many fits. Trust me, I have my fair share of challenges (sleep, being a big one) but overall it’s been a lot of fun. I’ve seen so many changes in Rowan over the last couple of months. He has really mellowed out a lot. I feel like 3 months ago, he was the kid running laps around the library during story time, and I couldn't’ imagine taking him to Starbucks without having to chase after him, telling him to put stuff down. Now all of a sudden he’s really thoughtful, likes to sit at the table for almost an HOUR working on a puzzle, loves to help me cook or bake, and can even push the little cart around Trader Joe’s without trying to mow someone over. It’s so weird!

During Rowan’s 3 year old check up, the doc was asking him some questions. She asked him if he was a boy or girl (and the same about myself, and Isla). He answered correctly, and then she asked about Russ. He got really quiet…put his finger on his chin and said.. “What’s that word again…hmmm…Daddy’s a MAN!” It made us laugh. He is 39.2 inches (90th %) and 33 lbs 4 oz (50-75%). He is estimated to be 6’3” by 18. Healthy and doing great, thankfully!

Last night, Russ and I stayed up late decorating the house and wrapping presents. I felt so excited anticipating his reaction in the morning. He especially loved the streamers and balloons hanging down from his doorway.

We started his birthday morning out with our second annual tradition of heading to Starbucks for a hot cocoa and birthday cake pop. I sort of envision myself taking him when he’s a teenager before school. Hope he wants to! ha. We came back from Starbucks and Rowan opened his presents from just our family. His reaction was just so cute and sweet. He kept saying, “WOW!!!” and ripping off the paper, thanking us.

 Excavator from bestefar! My dad gave us some money, so we bought this digger we knew he wanted and wrapped it up. He was so excited!

Closing his eyes waiting for the big surprised from Mommy and Daddy!

Batcave!!!

I always said I would do a big party for each kid’s 1st birthday, and then wait until they are older for more parties. Last year we went to the zoo and just had a fun family day. There was no way I was getting away with that this year though! Rowan has been talking about his party for months…”and all my friends are gonna be there… and we’re gonna have cupcakes…etc..” So we took a gamble and planned a party at the park. Of course two days ago it was super sunny but today, the day of his actual birthday and party, it’s as stormy as could be. We had to pack our little place full. I was a little stressed at first, and running around like crazy trying to get everything ready, but it actually worked out great! All the kids played, we ate pizza, and cupcakes, and it was just casual and fun. Rowan had the best time, which matters the most to me. Everyone got such thoughtful gifts. Jake the pirate, duplos, and batman stuff… a little boy’s dream. :)

    I made these cupcakes using spiderman liners but they didn’t show up as well as I hoped. This was also my first attempt trying to make “fancy” frosting. I thought they turned out pretty good!                     Rowan started asking when everyone was going to go home. I think he was pretty exhausted. He also wanted to play with his new duplo sets, and we told him he had to wait until everyone went home, so we didn't lose the pieces! :)  

I know everyone says it, and I definitely have before…but being a mom has brought me more joy than I ever thought possible. Rowan is our crazy, smart, silly, athletic, and lovable little guy and a I am so blessed to be his mom.