You’ve Got a Friend Who Is 3 — Celebrating Ava-Maree’s Toy Story Birthday
On the 1st of June 2025, our little girl, Ava-Maree, turned three years old — and just like the theme of her big day, Toy Story, she reminded us once again that growing up doesn’t mean losing the magic.
This year, her celebration was held at her Montessori school, the very place that has played such a huge role in shaping the incredible little person she is becoming. Walking through to the playground, seeing the joy on her face, and watching her share her special day with her friends and family felt like the perfect full-circle moment.
A Toy Story Day to Remember
In true Toy Story fashion, the day was filled with colour, laughter, and that warm sense of friendship that the movies are known for. Ava-Maree’s eyes lit up at every small detail — from the decorations to the cupcakes — and it struck me again just how deeply she absorbs the world around her.
Her friends and classmates and family made her feel like the star of the day, and she embraced it with her usual confidence and kindness. Whether she was sharing, helping, or laughing with her friends, she carried the joy of the day with the same gentle spirit we see in her every day at home.
Growing Up So Fast
It’s unbelievable how quickly these first three years have passed. One moment she was crawling, the next she was running, talking, reasoning, and surprising us with her intelligence in ways far beyond her age.
Every day, she says or does something that makes us stop and think: How is she only three? Her memory, her curiosity, her vocabulary, and her understanding of emotions and routines — all of it continues to amaze us. Montessori has amplified so much of this. The independence, confidence, and problem-solving skills she’s built there are things we see in her daily life, and we are incredibly grateful.
Beyond Her Years
Ava-Maree has always been bright, but at three, she shows a maturity and awareness that’s truly special. She notices things others might miss. She expresses her feelings with honesty. She learns at a pace that keeps us on our toes. And she carries herself with a kindness and softness that makes her a joy to raise.
She may be small, but her presence is big — and her character is even bigger.
Proud Doesn’t Begin to Describe It
As parents, we couldn’t be more proud of the person she is becoming. Watching her grow into this confident, clever, gentle, funny, and determined little girl feels like the greatest gift we could ever receive.
Her third birthday wasn’t just a celebration of another year passed — it was a celebration of everything she has blossomed into. And as we watched her surrounded by love, joy, and the world she is so eager to explore, we felt overwhelmed with gratitude.
Ava-Maree, you’ve got a friend in us, always — and we are so blessed to have a friend like you.
Happy 3rd Birthday, our darling girl. Here’s to more adventures, more learning, and more magic.
