Fairys, family, friends and fun.....

Well who would have guessed that time could fly by so fast ... it is already Sequoia's 3rd birthday.

In her first three years Sequoia has proven that she will be exactly who she wants to be, regardless of daddy's illusions to the contrary. I am certain that she will still be the most intelligent marine biologist, pro surfer, explorer of parts unknown and discoverer of all of life's secrets...but for now she is a little girl who loves purple and faeries. 

I have to admit that Colleen and I think that is wonderful and fun. Seriously - who couldn't use a little more magic in their lives? 

Anyway, Sequoia was joined by a number of her friends including the two Keiras from her day care class, little Emma from the aquarium (in a round about way) and Brooklyn from the early days.

Nanny Kelli made the most amazing Tinkerbell cake and cupcakes and wielded her paint brush to create whimsical face paint artwork on the little girls and mommies.

They all made pretty faerie houses to encourage their little imaginary friends to move in to our gardens.

There were two actual parties today - an early one for the younger kids and then a later one for the adults and family members. What that boiled down to for Sequoia was that she got to blow out her candles and eat cake twice in one afternoon. Not a bad deal.

The obvious side effect of such a deal is a guaranteed sugar buzz and the associated running and giggling.

Sequoia opened up her presents and enjoyed playing with all of them. She really liked the Tinkerbell Stile'n Salon.

Mamacita was here from North Carolina as was sister Kathleen from Colorado. Local family members included Sherri, Steven, Ryley and Aidan - Brother Brian and Carolyn - and my brother Mark, Gena, Christopher and Will.

So lets crank up the energy and eat more cake......

Sequoia really enjoyed all of her company and had a great time. She really liked seeing her old friend Brooklyn again.

Brooklyn had a few new things to show off...like her little brother Cooper. She also got to experience a few firsts, like getting her face painted.

She is definitely a real cutie.

As is her little brother, although he does not seem to do much yet...sort of a laid back character.

All I can say is that it has been a wonderful and fun ride watching our little girl grow up. she is such a big little girl - so grown up and independent... and in reality not even three yet. It was amazing watching her and Brooklyn interact with full conversations and completely self entertained. I fear I may slowly be becoming obsolete....but that is ok too. As my dad once said - the goal is to make them independent enough to move out.

Just as long as she doesn't do it too soon ...

By the way, Brooklyn managed to make it to the birthday party because the Sneeringers have moved to Maryland and are now less than an hour away. We are very excited about this development as it means one of our favorite blog guest stars may be making more regular appearances again. So Jennifer....you made the background ... it's a start.