Birthday and Birthday

It wasn't enough to have ONE birthday party this year. We had to have two. When we were making this decision, there were so many things we were trying to balance - Butch being gone hunting, Katie's school being on fall break, the price of Kidz Bounce (cheaper during the week), schedules (my work and KidzBounce filling up on the weekends) and the number and demographics of the kids (French School friends and "old daycare" friends). We thought it would be easier to have two separate parties - one for each group. And then, as soon as we sent the invitations, we regretted it. Do you know how much work is involved in throwing a birthday party for a 4YO? It DOUBLES when you have two. And, that moment at the end of the party, when you look at your spouse and you both think, "Thank God! We're done!" Yeah, that's followed by a big fat, "NOT SO FAST, SUCKERS!"

We thought about wiggling out of one of them but in the end stayed the course and had both parties. It was a lot of work - and we'll NEVER do two parties ever again - but they both went great. We didn't get a lot of pictures - were trying to enjoy the moment. But here's a few that we did get.

PARTY #1

Notice the Strawberry Shortcake party hats (yes, in fact, they DID smell like strawberries!), the strawberry shortcake blowers, the Strawberry shaped bags (containing a 'picnic snack' for the kids).

We didn't actually get a picture of the first cake once it was finished. This is the best I can share. But, trust me, we did write "Happy Birthday Katie" on it and it had, of course, a Strawberry Shortcake candle to finish it off.




Katie worried and worried about having the kids sing Happy Birthday. In the end, she agreed to the song. And, yes, that's a special Strawberry Shortcake birthday girl party hat. (Are you starting to see why Butch has been getting annoyed with me lately?)

Katie and her best friends Isabel (L) and Amethyst (R). They're wearing their Strawberry Shortcake specs. Every girl needs rose colored glasses. It was a great birthday and party. It was raining as only Seattle can outside but the kids had a blast inside. We were happy with how clean and bright Kidz Bounce was and the helper was (suprisingly!) helpful. She made it VERY easy for us.

PARTY #2

This was the home party with her old daycare friends. Again, so busy in the moment that we didn't get too many pictures. Here's one of her Strawberry Shortcake cake.


And, the second singing of Happy Birthday. She took it like a pro! And, yes that's more Strawberry Shortcake treat stuff on the table. Yes, I am trying to find a 12 step program...


Happy Birthday Katiebug. Thanks for joining our family four years ago and turning it right-side up. We love you!