When I was pregnant with Oliver there were many things I looked forward to.  Dressing him in cute clothes, teaching him life skills, buying him presents. But as he gets older I am encountering many things that I never thought would be so fun.  

Today was Oliver's friend, Aiden's, 2nd birthday.  His first "friend" birthday party.  This party had all the bells and whistles. They had Thomas the Tank Engine everything; Oliver loves Thomas. He had such a great time.  He enjoyed picking out Aiden's present, helping me wrap it and playing with it once it was open (Thomas trains).  He was really excited to help Aid blow out his candle on his cake (although, I did cover his mouth to prevent licorice juice from being sprayed all over the cake).  He loved swimming in the pool with all of the balls.  He really enjoyed the Thomas goodie bag. He blew the whistle all the way home (thanks Karen :) ). 

When I was pregnant I never thought, "I can't wait to teach Oliver about birthday party traditions."  Or "I'm excited to get to experience a birthday party through a toddler's eyes".  But you know,  there is something magical about a kids birthday party.  I never once worried about how much sugar Oliver had consumed or that he was running around in wet clothes.  He was free to be Oliver and I was able to sit back to watch and learn.