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| Nick with Lizzy on his 25th Birthday |
Nicholas celebrated his fourth birthday on December 4, 1989, five days after Katie was born. We wanted to make him feel special on his birthday so we planned a party with his preschool friends: Louis, Rusty, Kendra, Kelly and others kids with names I can't remember now.
The only challenge was our backyard. We had an old fashioned red swing set and plenty of space for running. We also had a pool and lived on a canal - two things not compatible with active, sugar-happy preschoolers.
"Let's hire a magician/clown to entertain the kids and keep them away from the water."
It was a great idea that almost worked!
The phone rang just as the kids started arriving. Our entertainment had car trouble and WOULD NOT make it to the party at all. She relayed some party games over the phone and wished us luck.
I tried to pass Katie off to my mother so I could help - but back she came sobbing. I couldn't get Katie to sleep or be comfortable anywhere but in my arms. Fortunately, others mothers came to Jeff's aid, and Kelly's mom Laura turned out to be quite good at kids' party games. No one fell in the pool or worst, the canal. Nicholas had a great birthday and turned into a patient and loving big brother, never blaming Katie - or the clown - for almost ruining his day.
I was the one who felt like I missed out that four-year-old year so celebrating his 25th was an unexpected bonus.
