The Richardsons: Gainesville Birthday Party!

Since we were driving through Gainesville on the way to Abbye and Billy's wedding in St. Petersburg, we had to take the opportunity to visit with Dad, Jess and Malena. They surprised Paul with a birthday party! It was a week before his birthday and I was already a little bummed thinking I couldn't throw him a birthday party this year, since we only had a few friends in Knoxville. It was such a fun and thoughtful set up, and Paul was thrilled and felt so special! Malena asked what Paul was interested in, and I told her trains -- especially Thomas. She decorated accordingly!

If you look closely, you can see Paul in his pajamas in the background taking everything in. (We usually let him travel in his jammies!)

Playing "stick the funnel on Thomas". Paul did the best, even being blindfolded! Although, I think this is because he directed everyone else... and not well.

"Can't you see, Malena? I'm pointing right here!" How Paul gives direction when you're blindfolded.

Paul really enjoyed leading everyone to Thomas!

Aunt Jess's turn!

Now it's time for bubbles outside!

Such a happy kid! It was so fun to see him like this after almost a week of total lethargy from being so sick. We finally had our happy little guy back!

I love this picture. He loved this balloon! Bubbles and balloons are birthday musts for Paul.

We requested that they not get a cake because until this day, he hadn't been eating much of anything. He didn't notice and loved the "fruit cake". He was also not at all afraid to blow out his candles this year.