A frog is on the window...

OK - Did that get your attention? Are you willing to read on to see if there's more to this post than an amphibian? Well....there's a little more....

Hayley's 3rd birthday is quickly approaching. We had planned to play it low-key, but of course, Hayley threw a wrench in that plan. One week ago, Cole asked Hayley what she wanted for a toy for her birthday. This is her response... "I don't really want a toy, I just want to have a party with my friends." AAAARRRRGGGGHHH! Needless to say, we pulled it together in 6 days. We celebrated yesterday because two of Hayley's VIP guests at the party neglected to schedule their labor day vacations around her birthday. To which, of course, Hayley probably said her new favorite line... "How dare you!".

It all worked out in the end with a BuildABear party and friends Lily, Andrew, and Chantal all present! Plus, Hayley's finding out this is a fun way to stretch her special day into a special week! Nice work! More pictures from the actual day next week.

Cole started 1st grade today. He's happy to still be in with a couple of good buddies from last year. He's a little anxious about the potential for daily homework. He's also commented that he thinks his new teacher will be too "mathy". (Webster's -- take note of a new word for next year's dictionary!)

Enjoy the pictures.


The frog on our window...as promised!


Cole helped Hayley scope out the choices before everyone arrived.

The gals hanging out after lunch.

Cheeeeezzzze!

Hayley's newest baby -- a Cheetah named "Baby Jaguar".

Andrew considers the Cheetah too, but ends up with a horse instead...named "Nay Nay"

Stuart is getting ready for Hayley's Baby Jaguar too -- he's excited to now become a Great (Monkey's) Uncle...

Getting ready to do the stuffing.... Does Hayley look guilty here??? Read on to find out more...

Stuffing Baby Jaguar. Notice the graffiti on the side of the machine in black marker courtesy of Hayley! It says... "What up, dawg?"

A few stitches for Baby Jaguar and we're off.

Lily is getting her Husky, Ivan, filled. Chantal is hugging Mimi the cuddly bear.

Now the new babies all get their first baths. Andrew washes Nay Nay.

Now it's Chantal and Mimi's turn.

And, Hayley and Lily give Baby Jaguar and Ivan their first baths together.

On to the good stuff. Diego cupcakes with pink frosting...

The sugar is kicking in...

Who do you think is happier about the first day of school for Cole?

You're right!

The bus stop crowd...

Hayley and mom both cheer!!! PARTAY!!!!

See you next week!