Three Year's Old!!!

Austin's birthday / New Year's Eve party was a success this year...sort of. :) Besides the fact that half of the family was on some kind of antibiotic and the stuffed mushrooms didn't turn out oh-so-great, it was a fun night. We had an assortment of finger foods this year - which is really one of my favorite ways to eat. :) You can have a variety without having too much of one thing.
Austin is pretty into trains, so the theme this year was Thomas. The kids (and Spencer) played "pin the number on the train".
Austin was pretty excited to get Buzz Lightyear!
He was deep in contemplation here as he was ripping open wrapping paper.
Tractor's are always a big hit...thanks Grandma Trudy!
Austin got a wooden train set and a train floor mat from mom and dad.
The cake was fabulous. Chocolate with raspberry filling and whipped cream icing. Everything on this baby - except for the Thomas train - was edible!
The stars were a big hit....and a big mess!
Austin's new favorite shirt is his D-Will Jazz jersey. Go D-Will!!

Mom couldn't resist the bubble gum machine. Every kid needs one, right? This baby is 16" cast iron and has a glass globe. It also can be used as a bank. We will probably be eating these gumballs for the next 2 years....but you have to put money in it to get a gumball out, so hopefully we will be rich by the time all the gumballs are gone. :)

I really can't believe my little guy is 3 years old! He is growing into such a sweet, smart little boy. He's so friendly and loves to talk to anybody, and I really think he and his daddy are going to be best buds for many years to come. They have SO much in common it is INSANE. Jeeps, engines, tools, picky eating, finicky clothes wearing, baseball, and the list goes on and on. I don't know what my life would be like without Austin, and frankly I don't want to even try to imagine it. Buddy, if you read this someday, just know that Mommy loves you and is so grateful that you are apart of our family. Luv You, and Happy Birthday!