Happy 31st Birthday, Russ

Russ' birthday was lots of fun! I was so careful to plan fun things for him, I tried to buy thoughtful gifts and all of my planning and secrecy was ruined by a three-year old. Cole must not understand the meaning of a secret or surprise. I took the boys shopping for Russ and when we got home Russ asked Cole what we were getting him for his birthday and he announces, "Running Shoes!" Yep, Russ' gifts were spoiled before I had even purchased them. So, I took Russ to pick out his own shoes since the secret was already out. Russ has been working out on this lunch hour and even wanted to try running, so new shoes were just what he needed.

So, since Russ knew what his "big" gift would be, I thought I would surprise him by having a rainbow trout cake made for him. A girl in our ward makes amazing cakes and she was excited about trying it out. I knew it would look good, but I had no idea it would look just like a real fish. It has scales, fins, a glimmer that makes it look real, an eye, and gills -- the cake was unbelievable. I called two of Russ' friends from school (Dave - went to VCU and is an oral surgery resident and Cody - a pedo resident) and had them and their families come. When I picked up the cake I told Cole that he couldn't tell Dad about the cake. Saturday night Russ was folding up a blanket and told Cole it was from Grandma Guymon for his birthday. Cole exclaims, "You have a fish cake and I will help you blow out the candles. Mommy told me not to tell and that it was a secret." Another surprise ruined -- uugghh!

The amazing, unbelievable cake

Eating the fish...I mean cake




Today the boys and I joined Russ at school for lunch and loved seeing him during the day. Garrett was passed from girl to girl and snuggled up close while Cole showed off and started acting really silly (can you tell he is three?!).

I hope Russ had a special birthday, even without any surprises. Russ is so much fun, works so hard for our family, loves playing with his boys and is a fantastic father, loves me despite my imperfections, and continues to be a dreamer. Happy Birthday, Russ!