Celebration

Tomorrow is Porter's birthday, but we did our outing today. For our little man's second birthday, we went to Build-A-Bear. This was our first time. We thought it was pretty perfect since Build-A-Bear started in St. Louis. It was a wonderful time!

First, the kids picked their animal from dozens on display. Brinn picked a puppy, Ainsley a monkey, and Porter an owl. Here they are showing off their animals.
Next they stuffed their animals. The girls thought it was pretty cool. They held the foot pedal down that puts the stuffing in the animal. After the animal was stuffed they picked a fabric heart. They kissed it, touched it to their hearts (so they would be loving), ear (so they will be good listeners), nose, and then they made a wish and put the heart inside the animal. (Brinnley with her stuffed puppy she named Sniffy.)
Ainsley making her wish before putting the heart in Monkey Jr.
Porter got scared of the sound the machine made when it was putting the stuffing in, but he liked watching from a distance while holding Hooty and his heart.
After stuffing the animals, we gave them baths. Ainsley was especially thorough washing Monkey, Jr. Porter liked it too, using the brush and everything.

Next they picked outfits and then dressed them. The girls both picked soccer uniforms that were complete with shin guards and a mini soccer ball. Hooty got a nice pair of overalls.
While we were walking to the car each kid wanted to hold their own animal condo, even Porter. It was slow going but he is a determined little man and he made it. Trust me, he did not want to let go of his owl!


When we got home the kids swam in our little pool in the front yard. From the moment they came back in the house 2 hours ago, we have not heard them or seen Hooty, Monkey Jr., and Sniffy. I am scared for what there room looks like :) Today has been wonderful! We had a melt-down free day and they have played so nicely together. I love my little family and we cannot wait for the big day tomorrow to continue celebrating Porter Boy. We love you little man!