The Big 2!!

Max turned 2 on Saturday!! Our day started with balloons and happy birthday as soon as he was up. Mike was really excited to give him his new bike (yes, bike, not a tricycle). It's a cool ride- - for now he'll push it along with his feet, but with a little practice (and size), he'll be coasting around town (no pedals, the trick with this ride is they learn balance first, then pedals come later). We played with it all morning, then got ready for his bday party that afternoon. In fact, he couldn't wait to show everyone at the party his new bike.

The helium-filled balloons were Max's highlight of the party. We almost had to tie him down to open his presents. He'd open a couple, then run off to find another balloon that he could release into the air.
His gifts from our families were a hit - he had to wear the new shoes from Papa & Nana Walkenhorst as soon as he pulled them out of the box.
He couldn't wait to help Mike put together his new sand/water play box from Papa & Nana Johnson.

Thanks to everyone for coming and making it a fun day!!

And, since he's two, here's a few things Maxman just LOVES::

1. Balloons. I've never seen such an animated or excited face.
2. Trucks. Bigger the better. In fact, just like a clock, he wakes up early every Tuesday morning to stand on his stool, look out the window and wait for the garbage truck to come.
3. Bikes. Especially when dad pulls him in the burley (even if it's pouring rain like on Monday when Mike took him out!)
4. Actually, add 3 and 4 together, and this kid likes anything with wheels. If it moves, he likes it.
5. Balls. Especially if he can throw them at Kermit.
6. Ice cream. Any flavor, any time of day (he must get this from me).
7. The Oompa Loompas on the original Willy Wonka movie. I can't tell you how many times we've watched them dance on youtube.
8. Cuddling with his favorite blanket and milk (probably one of my favorite times of day).
9. Animals. Wheeler Farm, the Zoo (thanks to my sister and brother for getting him a year membership there!), seeing dogs, this kid LOVES them.
10. Music. He's even invented his own little shoulder shake right to the beat. Someday he'll let us record it on camera.