Final Day As a 2 Year-Old

Today is Raf's final day as a two year old. As I mentioned in the post below, it's quite amazing the changes in him lately. He's so much 'older' in many ways, and as he gains independence and ventures into the world a little more, we see all that we're gaining and all that we're losing (i.e. Rafi the baby). 

Today we decided to start the birthday festivities with a trip to ride Thomas the Train. We did the same trip last year, and while he had a nice time then, it was clear that he didn't quite understand what was going on and was a wee bit apprehensive of the train ride itself. This morning I told him what we were planning to do and what struck me was the level of his anticipation! I suppose he must, to some extent, conceptualize the future and past so that now he can get excited for things we're going to do... 

It's a long drive to North Conway from our new locale (we were quite close before) and Raf was very patient. As we pulled into the parking space, though, he was about to combust with excitement. He ran to the train station and I thought his little heart would pop out of his chest from the sheer thrill. It was, though, incredibly hot and as we walked through the stalls and shops (all put on for this event, no doubt making an absolute fortune for Mattel) he was a tad overwhelmed.

But, wow, there's Thomas! (though I think Raf wished it was James as he's never been a huge fan of Thomas, per se, and tends to like the other trains much, much more).

Is this real?

Wow!!!!!!!

We were all melting as we waited to board the carriage.

Raf can barely believe it.

Is this really happening?

Lots of clapping as we get going.

Catching a breeze.

It was a lot of fun, though I, especially, felt like crying because of the heat and humidity. Fortunately for us there's a park with some really great kid sprinklers set-up so Raf managed to cool-off (though at first he was a bit reluctant until he found a new friend to chase through the muddle puddles).

It's COLD!

I was feeling sorry for Raf all day because of how hot he must be underneath all that crazy hair, so en route home we stopped and he got a new big-boy cut.

He looks very smart, though I am already missing the super-long locks.

When we got home Rich took Raf and the boys for a walk and I attempted to make Raf's train birthday cake... we'll see how it comes out as it's a 3D train cake and I'm honestly not hopeful! Raf could barely contain himself when I told him what was in the oven! a Train cake?!!!! Wowza.