Oh What a Difference a Year (or 38) Makes

It’s been a big week here at the Shumway house, as we had two birthday boys within four days. The oldest family member (Andy) turned 40 and the youngest (Quinn) turned 2. Despite the 38 years separating father and son, there were striking similarities (as well as obvious differences) when it came to how we celebrated their big days.

With Andy, we opted for a surprise party. Along with about 40 family and friends, we surprised him, toasted him and shared some laughs. We ate cake and BBQ that was smothered in a spicy sauce. At the end of the day, turning 40 didn’t seem like such a big deal.

For Quinn, however, things were different. It was more of an intimate gathering (how many friends can one count when they’re two?) and the surprise came when he woke up and we had to remind him that it was his birthday. However, like his father, turning two didn’t prove to be too much of a life-altering event.

I decided to compare the back-to-back parties to see just how differently the Shumway boys celebrate.

THEME

Andy’s 40th – In lieu of a gift, every guest brought a bottle of hot sauce (Andy’s favorite condiment/ topping/toothpaste) and made a custom label for him. It was a hoot to see how creative people got and Andy is thrilled with his new collection.

Quinn’s 2nd – A daylong reminder that he now should say “I’m two!” instead of “I’m one!” Unfortunately though, he still holds up one finger when he shouts out his new age. Rome wasn’t built in a day, you know.

GUEST LIST

Andy’s 40th – About 40 friends and family and roughly 20 of their kids. People came from as far as New Hampshire, as close as next door, and ranged from lifelong friends to buddies from work.

Quinn’s 2nd – Mom, Dad, Brother, Sister and Smokey the Wonder Cat.

GIFTS

Andy’s 40th – Roughly 20 different bottles of hot sauce, ranging from a Spicy Honey BBQ to a Burn-Your-Stomach-Lining Habanero paste.

Quinn’s 2nd – A tub of wooden blocks purchased at the Nobles Yard Sale and a Wally the Green Monster Pillow Pet. He currently sleeps with Wally, so we know he loves it.

ACTIVITIES

Andy’s 40th – Four guests gave funny and heartwarming toasts. People noshed on food from Blue Ribbon BBQ and rocked out to the “Soundtrack” to the evening, which consisted of 12 songs with the word “Hot” in the title. A cake to feed 50 and a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” capped off the evening.

Quinn’s 2nd – Guests noshed on leftover BBQ, macaroni and cheese and coleslaw (arp). Mini cupcakes with yellow and orange frosting and a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” capped off the evening. That is, until the guest of honor demanded “One more cuppake?” and we acquiesced. When you turn two, that’s not so much to ask.

From what we’ve found, it’s seems as though the key to a successful birthday consists of good friends, great BBQ and having those you love sing to you. And whether you’re 2 or 40, never be afraid to reach for that second cupcake. You’re only young once!