Anatomy of a Birthday Party

We have attended a lot of birthday parties this year. I love kids birthday parties! I'm not sure why, because I'm quite sure I'm in the minority here. I think it might have something to do with the fact that I only had one birthday party as a kid and so now I'm living vicariously.

I tend to go way overboard with my own kids parties each year, so I'm always on the lookout for new ideas. This party in particular was for our friend Paige and her brilliant mommy went the route of holding it in a park. Here's how this little shindig went.

First, it's always important to choose just the right outfit. Keep in mind where the event is being held and what activities you might be participating in. Big A goes an interesting route with a WHITE dress. Hmm, we'll see how that choice comes into play shortly.

Little A goes more traditional with a sleeveless top and bloomers. Both girls appear ready for festivities.

It's a beautiful sunny day. We're ready to party! Paige's mommy brought an assortment of party games that the kiddos thoroughly enjoyed. Big A enjoyed chasing bubbles all over the place.

Little A got back to nature and channeled her inner bear. I see a lot of tree climbing in this girl's future.

And after a stirring rendition of "Happy Birthday" was sung, the kids dug into the cupcakes. I love cupcakes rather than a traditional cake. Kids aren't fighting over who has the bigger slice or more icing. I had the baby wipes on standby as Little A went to battle with her blue icing.

Daddy, however, wasn't quite as thoughtful. Big A wreaked some major havoc on this dress with her green icing. I was praying to the stain removal gods the whole way home.

And finally, the party favors. I have lost many a nights sleep over trying to figure out what to send the kids home with. I usually run into the problem of having a large age range of kids at my parties, so it's hard to just stick with 1 kind of favor. However, Paige's mom & dad hit this one out of the park. (No pun intended) All of the kids went home with these huge Life Is Good inflatable beach balls. Perfect summer birthday party favor! Here's Little A enjoying her ball.
And Big A enjoys her ball too! Notice the balls are different colors? Very important in keeping the harmony in this house. So as not to mistakenly let the sister play with your toy.

We all had a lovely time at the party and wish Paige a very happy birthday!