Happy Birthday, Nolan!

For Nolan's birthday this year, we had planned to do a small Halloween themed party at the cabin with grandparents.  Unfortunately, Covid had other plans. Both Grandma Patti and Grandma Marcia were feeling under the weather, and wanting to be safe rather than sorry, we decided to cancel.  (It turns out this was a very wise decision, as Grandma Patti tested postive for Covid and Grandma Marcia, though she tested negative at the time, later tested positive for the antibodies.)

We talked our change of plan over with Nolan and with wisdom and flexibility, he agreed to help me plan a great birthday at home.  It started a big birthday breakfast of his favorites - French Toast, sausage, and bacon.  

He opened some a pretty awesome birthday present of Pokemon cards from Uncle Luke and Auntie Annalyse.

And Olivia and Nolan spent ALL afternoon (3+ hours!!) in the whirlpool tub for an indoor beach party.  I bought them each a snorkel, put on his favorite playlist, lit a coconut candle, and made them pineapple punch to drink.  They had so much fun.

After Daddy got home, it was a Culver's dinner, some more presents - including his favorite Gengar stuffy, and a cookies and cream cake.  It was a pretty great birthday for a pretty amazing kid.

 Nolan,

The adaptability, resilience, and maturity you have shown throughout the many challenges and changes of 2020 have made me so proud.  Your kind heart and deep empathy astound me.  Though this pandemic has not been easy, I will always treasure the extra time I got to spend at home with you, learning more about the wonderful person you are and getting to be your teacher.  You are so very special and so deeply loved.  Happy 8th Birthday to the beautiful boy who made me mom!

I love you,

Mom