the birthday boy

Happy 2nd birthday (slightly belated) to the little boy who melts my heart with his smile. His spontaneous hugs and the way he says "mama" make me feel like the most special girl in the whole world.  I can't believe the Lord has kindly blessed us with two full years with this sweet kid.

We began the celebration the night before when my grandparents stopped in on their way home from Florida.  Of course, they had to take time to say hello to their newest great-grandbaby.

And then the party began.  We went to Chuy's for dinner (oops, no pics) and then headed home for some cake and ice cream.  Silas wasn't sure about the candles.

But then he decided they were okay.

I've finally taught him to smile on cue.  "Grin like a gopher" is the command, in honor of Sandra Boynton's ABC book.

We let him open one present from my parents, which happened to be a toilet.  Not like he's interested in potty training (at all) but we figured it'd be good for him to start getting used to it.

Now for the big day.  We decided to take him to a pet store to buy a fish (and get some free entertainment).  He's excited, obviously.

And then we threw an impromptu birthday party to eat our leftover cake and ice cream...with our good friends the Van Steenburghs!  Silas still had lots of presents to open.  Where will we put everything?!?

Ivy was jealous of all the attention Silas was getting, so she screamed the entire time.  No joke.  (Actually...she had shots that day and we think that's what caused her most horrible evening ever.  She was completely fine the next day.)

He loved all of it.  Thank you, Mimi & Papa and Uncle Geoff & Aunt Jill for providing the presents. :)