Ben's Clifford 2nd Birthday Party!

We had plans. Big plans. Plans that included a bounce house, park permit, swings, drinking beers outside, Blongoball, and lots of sunshine. But then, just like last year, it rained. And just like last year, we decided to move the celebration to a pizza place. Even though Jim and I were a bit dissapointed because we knew how much the kids would enjoy the bounce house, the party was a total success anyway. Ben woke up from his 2 1/2 hour nap in a GREAT (borderline crazy) mood, all ready for his party. As we got ready to leave the house, he grabbed his birthday crown from school and put it on. He knew what was about to happen! :)

Jim transformed Round Table with all of our Clifford-themed decorations, including the Clifford cake he made all by himself that looked awesome. I couldn't believe how great it turned out. We felt so blessed that most of our friends and family made it a point to celebrate this special occasion with us. We had about 8 toddlers from age 1 1/2-3 running around, as well as 3 babies. It was so cool to see all of our friend's growing families all together. The kids had a blast playing with all of the video games, coloring, and eating pizza and cupcakes.

Thank you to everyone who made this day so special for Ben and our family (Grandma you were missed!). Happy Birthday bug, we love you so much!

Setting up for the party Clifford balloon

Table set-up for the kids to color

Jim with his masterpiece :)

Ben's "puppy" cake

The party in action

The birthday boy!

What a treat to have his cousin there!

Ben sat in this spot for 20 minutes popping M&M's

Me with the birthday boy (and his M&M's!)

Having some pizza with Dad

Ty stopped by for a visit - what a nice surprise for Chase to see his Uncle!

Chase enjoying the party

Tracy and Troy (3 months old)

Ben and Chase playing air hockey with Papa

Chase was a pro - till he smashed his hand and needed ice! Hahaha. Ben and Papa scored!

Ben was all sugared up and got on top of the table!

Cake time! Ben was a bit impatient.

Chase looking on as they blow out the candles

Ben needed a little help with the candles

So excited he blew out the candles

Happy Birthday to you!

Ben going in for a bite before we could cut a piece!

Jim and I with our birthday boy

Lori and baby Brady Chase eating his cupcake (more like just the icing!)

Marcos with Emery and Troy

Liam

Drew

Eric, Charlie, Lauren and Reagan

Papa enjoying some quiet time with Brady

Ben back at the candy table

He would open a sucker, rub it on his face, then open another one - crazy kid!

With sucker #4 (look at them lined up on his plate)

Hilarious

Ben handing out goodie bags to his guests :)

Chase, Ben and Drew checking out the candy crane

After the party, Chase asked if we could open some presents

The boys were attacking Jim to get to the cash registerBen organizing his money

This is what Chase was looking for - new tool bench from Grandma & Papa!
Papa with Brady

The boys checking out the new tool bench

Lori playing "horsey" with Ben again

Feeding Brady and hanging out with my Dad Chase figuring out how to use the power drill

What a cutie