For weeks they have been asking when they can make the cupcakes...

I informed them that now was the time.  They were so excited!  But, like is so often the case, the two oldest ones got sidetracked, leaving the youngest to tackle the project by herself(with my supervision of course).  She was as proud as punch!  She stirred and stirred.  She separated the cupcake papers.  She was on her own and she was thrilled.

 By the time the cupcakes were ready to decorate, two more were added to the process.  I demonstrated the first one, and they promised that they had it down.  They were all ready.  Can I tell you, there was chocolate icing everywhere.  I had no idea what all this simple adventure would involve.

Seeing how seriously each one took their responsibility made me smile.   At this point, I did cut off the top of the bag, something I should have done before, but I was too busy wiping chocolate icing off of EVERYTHING...including my elbows:) 

A few years ago, I had purchases a pack of "tool" christmas tree ornaments at The Hobby Lobby store in Texas, on a visit with our daughter.  I had this exact idea in mind when I made the purchase.

We washed the tools, and laid a tiny piece of plastic wrap on top of five of the cupcakes, and placed an ornament on top.  Added some candles and the project was complete. 

Three little ones were pleased as can be.  Finally, their project was finished.  They could not wait until they could surprise the recipient with their culinary skills.

Why would I have tackled a project like this with three young children?

Why would I have been content to take the next few "hours"(not really), to clean up my kitchen?

Because...today a special guy is having a birthday.

Tonight, they all will celebrate "him" together.  When dessert time comes, they will be ready.  Hopefully, he doesn't see this post before then:)

Our birthday greeting to him,  "Age is merely the number of years the world has been celebrating YOU!
Happy Birthday dear son-in-law!