on your mark...

My big guy is three and we are overwhelmed...that might also be because his daddy has been on a big case and I'm overwhelmed by single-mommyhood these past few weeks, nonetheless, our sweet little first born is not even a toddler anymore, he's a full grown little boy.  I don't know what it is about age 3, but he just seems different, changing before my eyes....I'd better show photos before I start crying:)

We had a cars themed birthday because well, if lightning mcqueen were a real car, we would be required to own one and every tow truck in the world is named mater.  If I didn't think that TV left an impression before, I have Disney and the Cars Movie to thank for my enlightenment!

We sent out sweet little race ticket invitations to all of Roberts friends, nothing fancy, just something that I created in powerpoint...I don't know how to even open/get photoshop so we're old school over here:

the kids were pretty stoked to get personal mail, or so I'm told...

we had a few things waiting for them when they arrived:

a "pitstop" with snacks and drinks, complete with labeled bags because lord knows you don't want to take someone elses animal crackers! Then they all just hung around the picnic table (which we love) and chatted it up about their weekends thus far.

then we had the kids get their "cars" ready for the big race.  I wish that we had some photos of the transformation from beer boxes to cars but alas, at 11pm photos were not on my mind.  Basically cut off the top, add duct tape for the bumper and paper plates for the wheels...I had fun creating them for the kids for sure and used the basic idea from this blog.  Each guest got to paint their own car, and these kids totally went to town, it was so fun to watch...I have more photos of the painting party, but for now, he's my little guy:

Finally it was time for the big race, and although there were a few minor crashes, they had an awesome time!

Robert needed an extra wheel on the back of his race car because that's where the spare tire goes on jeeps...obviously.

Last but not least, cake and cookie time:)
I couldn't find a cookie cutter so I just made one out of a soda can and staples...incredibly and surprisingly easier than anticipated...And my mom gets complete credit for the cake decoration...my first attempt was a total and complete fail, we don't even need to talk about it.