Party Combustion

Balloons.  Presents.  Cake.  Friends.  Excitement.  Laughter.  Movement.  Games.  Joy.  All the elements of a successful children's party.  Today these elements collided for Hunter, and instead we developed the chemical reaction of combustion.  Peter and I mulled over the perfect location for his birthday party- we thought his gymnastics center would be ideal, since he was familiar with the gym and his coach would host the party.  He asked several times during the day when we would leave, and was counting the hours until we departed.  We went through the list of his friends that would be there, reviewed the schedule (play in the gym, jump in the pit, eat a snack, sing happy birthday, and eat cupcakes), and reminded him about Coach Michael.  On the drive to the gym, he started crying and saying that he "didn't want to go to gymnastics."  I was hopeful that once we arrived he would calm down and remember how much fun he used to have jumping, climbing, and bouncing. 

Each transition was disastrous.  He cried at least 50% of the total party time.  He tried to jump in the foam pit, but couldn't get out when he landed.  He liked the trampolines until a friend accidentally bumped him.  He enjoyed freeze tag to the "Fresh Beat Band" song, but became upset when the song ended.  He said several times, "It's not MY birthday.  I want to go home."  Over and over again. 

Coach Michael!

Every other child was having a blast.  Except for the birthday boy himself. 

It was too much anticipation, too much anxiety, too much uncertainty; too much time had lapsed since his last gymnastics class in April.  Elements collided and he reacted- where a normal child would continue on and become easily distracted with the next fun activity, he combusted.

Scientifically, complete combustion is almost impossible to achieve.  In reality, actual combustion reactions come to equilibrium.  Enter into the equation a group of people who understand, truly care, and raise their children to be accepting of everyone, even those who cry at their own  birthday parties.  As we surrounded Hunter for his birthday song, all parents and children whispered "happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you," at the request of Hunter.  

It truly does take a village to raise a child.  Thank you, sweet friends, for being our village!


First to jump on the trampolines







 



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Sitting with friends- not crying here. :)





Playing chase