Happy Birthday Daddy

Dear Tatum,

In honor of Daddy's birthday we endured a birthday marathon, which began last Thursday. First we gathered at Aunt Randi's and Uncle Paul's for some yummy deep dish pizza and a sinfully chocolate cake. Daddy received many nice gifts. This was a fun way to kickoff his birthday weekend.

Since Friday was Daddy’s actual birthday and we decided that he would take the day off from work so that we could spend the day together at the zoo. We had beautiful weather and enjoyed every minute of such a wonderful day. First we visited the monkeys and gorillas in Tropic World. They are always entertaining to watch, however, not so much to you. Your interest was redirected to all of the energy filled kids running by. You were so fascinated by the other children that you were not at all aware that we were standing in a mini rain forest.

Daddy and I then decided to get in line for the Stingray Bay Exhibit. We were able to touch the very slimy and prickly creatures with our bare hands. They were really cool to watch, as they would glide through the water. You were getting a little sleepy at this point, but managed to perk up when we exited the exhibit into the gift shop. You were fascinated with all of the bright colored plush stingrays. Daddy and I were looking for the best plush stingray for you when you decided for us by grabbing one and biting on it. We laughed as we headed to the register.

We then met up with Aunt Jamie, Uncle Mike and Michael and headed to the Dolphin Arena to catch the last show. Dolphins are such amazing animals and I know you will enjoy the show one day, however, this time you settled for just enjoying the music. We took many pictures and movies for you.

We made one last stop before leaving. The Butterfly Garden Exhibit... one of Mommy's favorites. It's such a beautiful exhibit with approximately 400 fluttering butterflies surrounded by gorgeous flowers. I was shocked to find that you were so intrigued by them. You watched as they passed by our faces and followed, as they would land on flowers. It was a great end to our first trip to the zoo.

We stopped for dinner on the way home for Daddy's Birthday, Uncle Mike's treat. It was a perfect end to a perfect day. We were all so tired and ready for bed. This picture we call, "Tuckered Tatum" expresses how we all felt. We were all sleeping within 30 minutes of being home.


The final part of Daddy's birthday weekend was on Sunday. We went to Grandpa Dale and Grandma Rhonda's house for a family party. You were so well behaved. Especially considering that you were passed around like a little hot potater. I don't think you have ever been passed around that much. To our surprise you were very calm and everyone had a turn. Before the party ended we took a group picture so that Daddy could remember this day.


Considering that you are fighting your first cold, you were an exceptional baby all weekend. You are an amazing little being that has made me feel like the luckiest person on earth. I look forward to seeing your smiling face tomorrow morning.

I love you.

Love,
Mommy