Oliver's 4th Birthday

Today Oliver is four years old. Although last year he understood his birthday, this year he has anticipated it more, making it more exciting for all of us. (In fact Lucy had been singing Happy Birthday to him even before the big day arrived.)

He got up and we all sat in bed singing Happy Birthday to him before watching TV for a while as we came round. Then we all went downstairs to see him open his presents from us. He has consistently asked for one present in particular which thankfully Hayley managed to get hold of after some searching: a stretchy Scoobie Doo (pictured above). He loved it.

I stayed home as late as I could before going to work, returning in time for his party at Anchors Away at 4pm. It struck me how odd it might seem to him that 20+ of his friends, who he normally only sees at most 3 or 4 at a time, all turn up at the same time and place. But he didn't seem phased.

As well as playing happily on all the equipment the establishment had to offer, they all enjoyed a sit-down party dinner complete with ice-cream dessert. This was followed by singing Happy Birthday to Oliver and presenting him with his cake. I just caught on film him blowing out the candles.



Then it was time for pass the parcel before more play.

By the time he went to bed he was out like a light. But on the way home he told Hayley, quite unprompted, "I had a great party Mummy. Thank you."

There are more photos from the day here.