Owen's 5th Birthday

It's hard to believe that Owen is already turning 5 years old.

Every year we pick a theme for our kids birthday party based on what they like at that particular moment. The past four years of Owen's birthday parties have been frogs, transportation, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and "Cars" the movie. You would think that one of those parties would have been a Thomas theme, based on Owen's obsession with all the Thomas trains. But mom and dad never chose that as a theme and Owen never had an opinion before. Adam decided that it was a no-brainer! Owen's 5th birthday party would have a Thomas theme. I thought we should ask Owen. So Adam said to him "Owen would you like to have a Thomas birthday party this year" and Owen's response to both our surprise was "No thanks dad, I would just like to have a Handy Manny birthday party" I was thrilled that he actually had an opinion, Adam was not beause he is not a big fan of Handy Manny. I had to gently remind him whose birthday it was.

Owen was so excited about this birthday and we couldn't be happier, since most of his birthdays in the past have resulted in total disinterest, sensory overload and sometimes complete meltdowns.

He was telling everyone he was going to be 5 years old. He was excited about opening presents, having a party and even taking treats into school.

The day of his party he was excited to see all the decorations, especially the balloons and he greeted all of his guests at the door when they arrived.

He opened all of his presents with great anticipation and no complaints.

We sang happy birthday at a normal level (no whispering) and he didn't plug his ears. He was smiling and even added his own cha, cha cha line at the appropriate spot in the song.

His cake was special ordered just for him from an SCD bakery in Massachusetts. Owen was so happy that he could take a lick of the frosting off his birthday cake and lick the candles after they were blown out. The moment was truly priceless.

What a great birthday Owen had. Definitely one we will all remember for a long time to come.