Fourth Birthday July 2008

We celebrated Robert's fourth birthday on the 22nd with his class. They all seemed to enjoy the fire hats (in case it's not obvious, there is a fire fighter theme), cake, fruit and juice. I was a bit wistful watching some of his classmates still napping soundly -- Robert gave up afternoon naps months ago (he was working on a head stand when we showed up this afternoon). But even the nappers woke up quickly and got into the spirit of things.

We came home and opened up presents. Robert really enjoyed the "full set of construction vehicles." I'm not sure how long these vehicles will last, but he's really having fun with them now. He also received a renewal to his Your Big Backyard subscription (thanks SMom and Pop Pop), an excavator much played with and a nice addition to his college fund (thanks Grandpa and Nona), Hot Wheels from his teacher, Ms. Andrea, and from his friend Evan. And, since he'd shown some interest in our various cameras, he now has his own camera. And to prove the point, below are two Robert originals.

The following Sunday, we had a birthday party in our backyard. Robert invited a couple school friends, some neighborhood friends, extended family and some of his parents' friends. We were lucky with the weather, it was hot but not horrible and the rain held off until the party was winding down (when many guests helped clear out the backyard -- Robert really does have good taste in friends).

While Romeo brought his little brother (well, Roy did), I'm not sure Miles got much more than interesting dreams out of the party. The older kids enjoyed the sprinkler, moon bounce and swing.

The most exciting part was when Robert's grandfather brought out the Firefighter turnout gear he borrowed on his way to the party. The kids got a kick out of seeing how the gear really feels -- they were all surprised at how heavy it is.