Don’t worry, things will be back to normal soon. But not this week. See, we’re going on a family vacation for the next 9 days with our besties. I’ll catch up with you all in a week or so.

Cottage Week 2009:

Cottage Week 2009 pictures here: http://thegearharts.smugmug.com/keyword/cottage%20week#602469993_f5x6v

Cottage Weekend 2008:

Cottage Week 2008 pictures here: http://thegearharts.smugmug.com/Vacation/2008-08-14-Cottage-Weekend/5742907_s34FP#354834988_bCkUk

On June 28, this year, my beautiful little boy completed his second trip around the sun and clicked his counter over to two. I, however, was not at home for this event. A work-related project had me a few states away for that particular week. But, I was home for the birthday party two days before his actual birthday. It was a very good day.

Tyler has recently developed an affinity towards Toy Story, and its characters, so we (let’s be honest, Sarah’s the event coordinator of the household, so I use the term “we” loosely here. To be even more honest, it’d be more fitting to say “Sarah and her BFF, Mel”) decided on a Toy Story themed party for Tyler.

Cupcakes, decorations, and games all oozed Woody and Buzz goodness. Sarah and Mel craftily made games and activities to keep the children happy. I did my part by putting up said decorations and making Toy Story-themed signs, directing people to the lemonade and the bathroom.

Tyler, the other children, and the adults all (presumably) had a really good time. When it came time to sing the “Happy Birthday” song to Tyler, the only thing bigger than the unflappable smile on his face was the garage we used as shelter from the blistering heat. The kids – and a couple adults – used the sprinkler.

And myself? Happy. Truly happy. I stuggle with some demons in my life; depression being the primary shadow that clouds much of my sky. That’s not to say that I’m never happy, because I am, quite often nowadays. At any given time, though, I feel a sadness/numbness/depression stalking me, always keeping its presence in my peripheral. But on this day, being with family and friends, playing with the kids, and watching Tyler have such a good time… Well, it made my heart warm. Whatever door Tyler has been pushing open within me over the last two years opened a little wider on June 26th, 2010.

Of course, I can’t discount the fact that Sarah has been instrumental in helping me to feel more balanced and comfortable in my skin. She has helped and supported me through all of my dark periods. Just the simple fact that she has put up with my crap for seven years – and counting – should speak volumes to her character. Or to her foolishness.

I suppose that’s enough of my soapbox rambling. Let’s take a short journey, through pictures of Tyler’s birthday party.