Firefighter Party

Sweet Jake Ryan holds a special place in my heart. He is exactly 7 weeks younger than my firstborn, and there is no doubt that the two boys will forever be best buds. At only three years of age, they ask for the other constantly, and though they are still learning the simple rules of life - use manners, always share, don't hit - they learn together (often at the expense of the other), and it's a blessing to watch them explore the world side-by-side.

This year, the night before Jake's 3rd birthday and 3 days before his 3rd birthday party, my cousin, Jared (Jake's dad), ended up in the hospital undergoing an emergency surgery to fix (MAJOR) bleeding caused by a tonsillectomy. Jared & Lisa cancelled the party (understandably so!) but invited family and a couple close friends to celebrate Jake. Amidst all of the chaos, Lisa still managed to organize a few AWESOME activities for the kids: a fireman obstacle course (each child earned their own fire badge, minus Harper who refused to participate - learning to put on her shoes has taken over her life), an extinguish-the-fire game where the kids threw water balloons at a fire-stricken house drawn with chalk (genius!), and a visit from an actual firetruck and real live firemen (thank you, Washington Township!)

The kids were in HEAVEN. And though his birthday bash was cancelled, I think Jake knew no different. It was a beautiful evening and wonderful party, and we were thrilled to celebrate Henry's best bud.

We love you, Jake Ryan. Thank you for including us in your special day.