Braxton's 2nd Birthday Bash

Who knew planning a toddler birthday party could be so stressful and overwhelming?! All mommas of "littles" who let pinterest get the best of them during the party planning process, of course. Ha! 
I knew that we had to incorporate Mickey Mouse this year because my sweet guy LOVES all things Mickey! I also knew I DID NOT want the party at my house;) We decided to have a Mickey Mouse Splish Splash party at the Bentonville splash pad which just happens to be one of our very favorite summer hangouts. Planning ensued with all the details such as decorations, food, and invitations coming from the inspiration of pinterest. 

Planning an outdoor birthday party is always a gamble. Last year, Braxton's party was in the backyard and it was so hot and so sunny. This year we woke up to temperatures in the 50s and rain. Obviously a splash pad party was out of the question so we changed the location to Children's Therapy TEAM at the last minute with permission from my boss.

What a blessing in disguise!! The kiddos had a blast playing on the trampoline, in the ball pit, on the swings, and most importantly on the zip line!!! The colorful walls were a great background for pictures and the kiddo sized tables were perfect for the little ones to sit and have a snack at. 

Braxton did a great job with all the attention when everyone sang "Happy Birthday." He got pretty excited about the candle and like a little magician he put it out with his fingers before I could stop him. He was fine and my face is pretty funny. Hehe

Next was presents and Braxton's reaction was priceless. He had a remark or comment for each gift, opened all gifts without a meltdown, and even managed thank you's for everyone!!! I wish we would have videoed his excitement for "snorts", "Piggie sooie", "planes", and "mickey mouse"!

Overall, the party went off so seamlessly and Braxton's sweet demeanor and excitement made it all worthwhile!! I cannot believe that my baby boy is 2 now but I am happy that I have a whole year before I have to plan another birthday blowout!!!

Happy 2nd Birthday Braxton Cole

The calendar has made it back around to September 5th way, way to fast! My little guy is now officially T-W-O! Around here our goal is to make birthdays super special so September 5th was a busy, busy day full of activities that we thought Braxton would enjoy. 
We knew we needed to see trains so we decided to have donuts for breakfast in the car while looking for trains. Luckily, Fayetteville has a train caboose right on Greg Street so Braxton climbed around for awhile and sang his favorite little song...."All aboard the choo choo train, all aboard the choo choo train, All aboard...All aboard....Choo Choo"

Next we needed snorts and luckily they are currently doing a lot of construction near our house to make a new bike trail. The construction workers were very nice and did not mind Braxton climbing on the parked equipment and watching them scoop dirt!!

Braxton with his Grandpa

 After a much needed nap we decided to take Braxton bowling for his first time. It was only fitting that Grandpa and Uncle nick be there with him since they both love bowling. Braxton loved carrying his ball and rolling it down the ramp. He stayed pretty engaged for the first whole game. He even got his very first "strike." Of course snowcones were needed after bowling!

We ended the day at Buffalo Wild Wings for chicken nuggets and the fact that Jagger made it before bedtime was definitely icing on the cake!!!
Overall my sweet boy had a very busy 2nd birthday surrounded by loved ones and doing some of his favorite things! I say that sounds like a pretty awesome day!!