Apparently when you turn 4...

you're supposed to celebrate like it's your birthday for 4 straight days. For Collin, it started on Wednesday (the day before his birthday). Unless you count Tuesday as well since that's when we baked and decorated the cupcakes for school. But on Wednesday when we arrived at his school with cupcakes in hand, there was a Happy Birthday Collin sign on the door. He also got to wear a birthday crown, eat from a special plate, and lead the class during Bus Fair (gymnastics class on a mobile gym bus). And of course eat the cupcakes for morning snack.

Thursday (his actual birthday), he opened his present from mommy, daddy, and Katelyn as soon as he woke up. I think it was a hit. Mommy and Daddy sort of think it's fun too.

We continued the day with lunch at Shanes (Collin's pick) with daddy, Ginny, and Michael. (Note that Shanes Rib Shack is also the location where, on numerous occasions, Collin has informed us he is marrying Macey). I guess Collin was really full, because he didn't even want a cupcake for dessert. Katelyn sure enjoyed one though.After Katelyn's nap, we headed down to open gym at Gymboree (also Collin's choice for his birthday activity). We started classes there last Monday, and they are really enjoying it. Katelyn has become quite the little climber and Collin loves helping the teacher.

Finally, we ordered Papa Johns for dinner and had a little birthday party at home (complete with party hats and yes, more cupcakes!).

Friday, we played at home (mostly with the new remote control Buzz), cleaned up the house, and went to Wal Mart (in the pouring rain) to pick up his birthday cake and some more last minute groceries.

And finally Saturday was the big Backyardigans "Polka Palace Party" he's been talking about for 6 months. We went with a Backyardigans theme party with a little bit of western/polka. The kids made drums, danced to polka music, and played giraffalaff limbo (courtesty of Auntie Joy). I think Collin and his friends had a great time. Here are lots of pictures from the party:Happy 4th Birthday Collin David! We love you to outer space and back (Collin's favorite version of Guess How Much I Love You).

Now back to searching for preschools!