Surely He Jousts

Or slays dragons, or conquers the offending villain-of-the-moment with a light saber. Such deeds were the thrilling action behind Danny's knight-themed birthday party at the park. For close to three hours, Danny ran, climbed, yelled and had an absolute blast, surrounded by his buddies (and never more than a foot from Parker - those two were joined at the hip!). It was exactly the kind of simple, joyful fun that I love to see my kids have. You know when the event ends with red-faced, sweaty kids that it was most likely a success.

Danny also succeeded in focusing on the party itself, and not the presents, which was a tremendous relief. Up until today, gifts were his primary interest. And don't get me wrong, he couldn't wait to get home and tear into a few of them. But from the minute we arrived at the park to set up camp, he was off and running on the playground, enthusiastically greeting friends once they began to arrive and waving his stick (lance/sword/light saber) the entire time. Unless intent upon a serious moment of play, he had a smile on his face the entire afternoon, especially when everyone sang "Happy Birthday" before the cupcakes.

We didn't get too many notable pictures, but I know of at least a couple precious ones that Crystal took. Lucky me, she decided to bring her "big beast" and practice with a lens. I'll be sure to share them once I get my hands on them. Until then, I better start researching a picture of a knight that I can use for Danny's cake tomorrow. These kids and their pastry requests may be the death of me!