Remember when my kid turned 3?

So as I've stated many times already, August 2011 was a rough month.

Unfortch, it was also the month my J turned 3. Let me set the stage for that event:

Baby G was 2 weeks old.

I was post-second surgery but pre-third surgery.

My mom was here and had extended her trip.

I still hadn't seen or talked to almost anyone.

I had just decided that my failed attempts at breastfeeding were making us all miserable, and that I should stop (cue weepiness and heartbreak).

We were generally on survival mode. Doing just enough to get by each day.

So what I'm saying is, the normal birthday fanfare, complete with a homemade creative birthday cake and party favors and themes... was not gonna happen. At all. And I didn't feel bad about that (you can't have that every year, right?), but I did want to do something special for J, since the month was otherwise all about me, my baby, my recovery, and survival, and a lot of separation from him.

So I chose something that was both extremely simple for me, and extremely delightful for him: his best friend P and Chuck E. Cheese.

We left the baby home with mom, bought a package pizza/token deal, and let the boys play to their hearts' content. He didn't care one bit that there wasn't a party or fanfare; he was in heaven. Truly. (Pair his friend P with any activity, and generally, he's in heaven).

He was spoiled with presents throughout the month (from grandma Benson, mostly, but also friends and us and my mom). He had a wonderful day/week. And it required zero planning and effort. Except the effort it took to be in Chuck E. Cheese for 2 solid hours on a crowded night, which should not be understated.

And? This is the only picture I have of it [above].

My happy happy birthday boy (despite the circumstances).

Man I love this kid. Even when I'm tempted to post him on Craigslist.