1 Birthday + 3 Parties = 1 Happy 2-Year-Old

Ben's birthday was November 4 and we were lucky enough to be in Idaho for it. James' parents came for a visit a couple of weeks before the big day, so we celebrated with them.

Ben & Grandma making cupcakes
Ben enjoying his cupcake

Grandpa & Grandma gave Ben a dump truck and a front-end loader (among other things). They were a big hit.

Then we had a party in Middleton the day after Halloween. It was great to celebrate with Laura & Justin, my dad & Kathie, Emily & Scott (& fam), and Cami & Jill. Ben had really gotten the hang of candles by then, not to mention presents.

Stu eagerly helped Ben blow out the candles.

Family birthday shot (& Stu, of course)

Ben loved playing with Cami & Jill. Cami is one of my dearest friends from high school and she and her mom came over for the party. Ben loves them!!!

Ben received more construction equipment. He and Zach really loved his gifts.

Zach just couldn't get away from the backhoe. I love this photo of him.

Then the actual birthday arrived. My mom and Dave were in McCall and it was so fun to celebrate with them.

I got this idea from a friend. Ben loved his "2" pancake.

My mom helped me (or I helped her) create this backhoe masterpiece. My mom always made us amazing birthday cakes when I was growing up and I was too scared to attempt it on my own. Thank you, Mom! Ben loved it so much that he actually dug in before it was done and we had to do some patching up.

Another family shot

Grandma & Grandpa Dave with Ben.

Ready for presents!

James & I gave Ben this violin and it was the biggest hit. It ran out of batteries after a day and a half because he played it constantly. He kepts saying, "Play the violin like Daddy!"