Jump for Joy - Henry's 3

The weekend after Christmas, we headed to Wichita for Henry's birthday party. It always sneaks up on us since it's so close to the holidays. Well, for that reason and because it's hard to believe another year has passed. I remember setting up for his very first birthday party, and that seems like just yesterday.

What I will remember most about Henry this year is his never-ending energy and high-pitched squeal! Whether he's running all over the house or driving his four wheeler all over the yard, that boy is always going. He gets so excited while he's playing that he just can't contain himself, so he lets out an ear-piercing squeal. Oh to have that kind of joy (and lung capacity)! It isn't always the best timing with a sleeping little sister in the house, but fortunately, his birthday party provided lots of opportunities for running wild and squealing to his heart's content.

We celebrated at Jump Jump Land, which was this really cool inflatable place near Wichita. I wasn't sure what to expect, but it was a lot bigger than I pictured. I can't imagine how cool it seemed to the little ones. I thought there was no topping last year's party, but this may have done it. The kids had a blast until it was time to deflate everything, open the gifts and cut the cake. We were worn out by the time we headed home, but a fun time was had by all.

Happy birthday, Henry! You are growing into such a fun-loving little boy. We hope this next year is full of plenty squeal-worthy moments.

 Welcome to Henry's fire and rescue party. 

I saw Kyle for all of about 2 seconds after he walked in the door. When I went to look for him, this is what I found. One pair of adult shoes mixed in with the rest.

 Fun with the birthday boy! 

 The grandparents were on Ella patrol so they chose to watch from afar.

It's SUCH a tough gig!

 Love these ladies!

 Henry is such a good big brother and just loves his little sis! 

 Papa bought these Converse for Ella LONG ago while Stacie was still pregnant. He has such good taste! 

 Now it's Conner turn to conquer the inflatable mountain. 

 Sweet success! 

 I challenged Kyle to a game of pop-a-shot, so we decided to take one last picture while we still liked each other before the fierce competition began.

 The initial game was pretty much a tie. (If you factor in a pretty hefty handicap for me.) 

 So that led us to a winner-takes-all half court shot. Kyle MAY have won, but if style points were factored in, I think I would have had him. 

 Ella got really sleepy, so she needed some cuddles from Mom. 

 Conner did NOT want to stop playing. His poor face was beet red, but he was ready to get back out there, even after they deflated everything. 

Just in case you were wondering, this is the response I get when I say, "Boys, smile for a picture." 

 Stacie made Henry's cake and cupcakes again this year. She also found blue and red rescue lights that were a hit with the kids. 

 And now it's time to dig into the presents! 

 Henry liked every gift he opened, but the biggest hit with his friends was the stuffed, dancing fox. You would think these kids had never heard "What does the Fox Say?"

 He got a little shy when everyone was singing to him. 

 But he recovered in time to blow out the candle.

 He did not want to put down his trucks, so he just carried them with him the rest of the night. 

 Frosting first. They make me so proud... :)