This story really begins a few months ago. Unbeknownst to us, our soon-to-be great friend Bill had gone through back surgery – a bummer indeed. But during that time Olivia became the Mayor of Fowler Playground (official title), due mostly to her wonderful nanny bringing her to the park for 3 – 4 (or more) hours every day. And that was when Olivia and Rowan first met!
Fast forward a couple of weeks and the next “part” of Olivia’s and Rowan’s friendship would begin when I first saw Bill and Olivia together at the park. I, instantly, knew who he was – the dad recovering from back surgery! And so an awesome friendship really began as from then we were bound to wind up at the playground together at least a couple times per week!
We were so fortunate to have gotten an invite from Bill and Deana to join them for Olivia’s second birthday at Catch Air! A new experience for Rowan, both in that it was his first time to Catch Air but also because it was the first time he was invited for a friend’s birthday. The day itself came quickly and we were so excited to go – especially the wild one, Rowan! As we were driving I could hear him saying “faster, faster!” and “I am so excite!”
After arriving we got to spend over an hour doing some playtime and exploration. Catch Air was such an exciting new experience – we had never been inside for a “playground” and it had so many amenities (when working… lol!) that were such great new experiences. Rowan especially loved the ball gun – due in no small part to Michael’s grand acting when being hit! Rowan also loved the big slides and more than anything when others were helping him – thanks Bill and Bill’s Niece, Destiny!
And of course after play was some yummy pizza, fruit cups, and blue cupcakes! I am pretty sure I heard Bill say something like “uh, maybe blue wasn’t the best color choice” as he looked around and saw blue-faced children in every direction! Too late, now! We also had a great birthday song and candle blow-out, and of course prezzies! Rowan tried to “help” a bit too much, but ultimately was corralled so the birthday Lady could have her awesome present time.
We were so happy to have been invited to Olivia’s birthday! Olivia is such an awesome young lady – she’s full of spirit, clearly adored, and has the cutest run you will ever see. She’s a great friend to Rowan and it always fills our hearts to hear that she is practicing saying “Rowan” at home. It was great seeing such an outpouring of love for her and her little family. And speaking of – Bill and Deana’s family and friends were so kind to Rowan and myself. They were so warm and inviting, I felt like we were part of the family! And all of that despite Rowan’s hot-mess-ness!
