What a great day today knowing we are celebrating Rhyder’s first birthday. His birthday is actually tomorrow. We are using the youth center at FCC Amarillo to hold the masses of people expected to attend. The turnout was fantastic for this event with 32 loving friends and family all celebrating his birthday.

First thing was the last-minute shopping spree from Misty and Scotty spending mega-bucks purchasing necessary items for the selected theme of the party. Based on the movie The Last Airbender, along with the purchase of a high chair for Mr. Rhyder to stay at Nonie’s house after the smash cake clean-up.

Lots of presents opened, and he started off clean in front of the cake. We sang “Happy Birthday” while he selected pieces of icing and cake. His Aunt Meggan made this beautiful cake. His Daddy decided he wasn’t messy enough, so he assisted in his son’s facial decoration of clumping cake and icing in a gentle face dive. Poor cake, it didn’t stand a chance, and Rhyder didn’t miss a beat. He continued his easygoing demeanor of consuming his cake.

Cleaning Rhyder was a team effort as all went well. Rhyder had a great time with his Grandpa Scott wheeling around in his new wagon. He was just amazed he fit in the little wagon. He really did enjoy his ride. Great Grandmommy and Granddaddy were there today enjoying the antics of the many children in attendance. Heather and I helped clean up after the party and had inclanations of dinner at the Red Lobster. (Sorry Misty, we knew you were busy, so next time I’ll share some crab.)

It’s Crab fest, babies! Heather selected a baked potato and brussels sprouts, and I, under some pondering dilemma, chose the Admirals Feast. I got two kinds of shrimp, some snow crab with a claw, a lobster tail, steamed broccoli, and a baked potato. Naturally, we had the trademark cheddar biscuits. Yum, and Heather got her free birthday dessert from a coupon they sent her, the chocolate wave cake with ice cream.

It seems today had a cake theme, along with gathering of family and friends to share in this achievement.

Ending today’s blog with a special thanks to all who love and support my son and his wonderful wife. They work hard to keep up with the vast amount of family and friends while raising such a fun, adventurous, positive young man who has opened our hearts for many years to come. Thank you, Scotty and Misty, for doing such a great job, even when you don’t have all the answers; you follow the right path. Trust in yourselves and your faith in God. We all love you.