Old MacDonald Had a Farm - And on That Farm He Had a Birthday!!!

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of hosting an "Old MacDonald Had a Farm" (as he puts it) 3rd Birthday Party for our youngest, little Ryan! After 3 children, we had never had a Petting Zoo OR Pony Rides at a party, but I guess like many other babies of the family, our littlest boy just broke us down. He is truly the biggest animal lover of all our kids and literally sings "Old MacDonald" about 50 times a day! So. . . Steve and I decided that if we were ever going to do it, this was the year! (And I found a really good deal from a great family ranch, which didn't hurt either).

This little boy had a WONDERFUL time - enjoying all HIS friends (not just friends of his brother's or sister's) and getting all the special attention!

Just look at the excitement on this boy's face! (And a happy Mom and Big Sister - whose efforts paid off!)

Ryan on his Pony Ride!!!

Our decorated front door - Welcome to "Blankenship Acres" (Steve said that sounded like a retirement home!) HA!

These are the ADORABLE candles I found for Ryan's Cake! (How CUTE are these?!?!)

Jack having his turn on the pony ride!

Ryan petting a Bunny Rabbit (his favorite) in the Petting Zoo!

"Farm Fresh" Refreshments for our guests!

More goodies for guests to snack on!

My Mom and Dad with some of the children - while enjoying the FARM themed Puzzle and Book and Activity Table! It was a LOT of fun!

Two of Ryan's special friends from church enjoying the water table!

One of Jack's best friends - dressed perfectly for the party!

Jack on yet another pony ride - - - he couldn't get enough!!!

Cousin William and Uncle Chris watching all the activity going on!

The Petting Zoo - it's strange to see goats, ducks, bunnies - - - and even hear a rooster crow - in your own backyard!!!

Everyone enjoying the Party in the backyard!

My friend who decorates cakes just outdid herself on this one!!! It was just PERFECT!!!

Ryan admiring (and sneaking a taste) of his Birthday Cake!

Ryan had a lot of FUN opening his presents from his friends and family!

More presents with friends!

The party was a huge SUCCESS for Ryan and his sweet friends, but it will probably be the last full-blown Birthday party at our home (which makes me a little sad!) I just LOVE to have young children's parties at home, but they are a LOT of work, and as the kiddos get older, it becomes much more pragmatic to have them held elsewhere. But - I guess since livestock were involved in this one, we went out with a BANG! Even with all the work, it was a true PRIVILEGE to give our little boy this gift! We are so grateful that God blessed us with this wild, energetic, funny, creative and one-of-a-kind child three years ago! Our lives will NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN!!!!!

. . . just another day in the life . . .