Turning 6, Quarantine Style

Well, it was certainly not the 6-year-old celebration we had imagined for our little birthday buddy, but you know what? He LOVED it! And here's why: no matter the uncertainty the world holds, what was certain for Harrison over the weekend is that he is loved, he is celebrated, and he is six! Here's how we celebrated our 6-year-old, quarantine style: 

We had planned to do a backyard family campout ON Harrison's actual birthday, which was Saturday. BUT. After watching the forecast all week, we realized that Friday's camping forecast was pristine while Saturday evening promised strong storms. So, we had a little birthday eve campout, right in our own backyard (and by "we," I mean my hub and our Big 3. Bels and I each slept in the comfort of our own beds - we aren't big fans of camping (or at least I'm not - ha!)). Before that, though, we enjoyed pizza, a toasty fire, and a couple movies under the stars. 

The next morning, Harrison officially turned six! He came running inside and was greeted by his presents, including some of his most coveted requests: a new blue scooter, new Nikes, and a critter carrier to hold the mannnnnny frogs and lizards and creatures he loves to catch these days. 

Although we had to modify the traditional Daddy Date to breakfast, we weren't going to let the coronavirus spoil their fun: my hub went and picked up the birthday boy's request, Waffle House, and brought it home so they could still carry out the tradition, only this year in the comfort of our kitchen. 

We spent the rest of the day playing, playing, and playing some more, outside with his new gifts. Then, it was time for lunch and a fun little surprise I've been counting down to use. Admittedly, this surprise came courtesy of one of those pesky Instagram ads (they are listening! they are watching! ha!) - they know me so well. I ordered the "Surprise Cake" Popping Stand after seeing it over and over on IG and thinking how much my kiddos would love this thing (because great news: it's reusable!). Essentially I baked Harrison's birthday cake of choice ("A white cake with blue icing and blue sprinkles") and then hid an extra gift in the stand's secret gift pod, which the cake was then placed over. After singing "Happy Birthday," my hub pulled the tab on the stand and POP!!!! Up came the surprise pod, right out of the middle of the cake, housing a new pair of blue athletic tights (he's been asking for them for months!) and some bubble gum. He absolutely LOVED it! 

Then, it was time for the next surprise, that had us all grinning from ear-to-ear for hours: a birthday parade, that included two of his aunts, uncles, and cousins; his Bammy, Digby, and G. Gram; and nearly all of his sweet friends. He was just so overwhelmed with excitement. It was the sweetest thing. <3

He then got to leave the house (gasp!) and spend some of his birthday money. He ended up buying two light sabors, one for him and one for his big brother, so they could battle each other, sweet boy. Next up, it was time for a full family bike ride around the neighborhood. We all loved it!

The day ended with his dinner request: pancakes with sprinkles. :) 

We truly had such a great day celebrating our birthday boy, and I know he felt special, loved, and so happy to see so many of his favorite people. Here's to you, Harrison Robert. May this be your best year yet! <3