Birthday Party!

36 hours after our epic journey home from California, we celebrated Elliott's third birthday and Lucy's first birthday with a joint party (their birthdays are two years and one day apart). Knowing we wouldn't have a lot of prep time, I skipped crazy Pinterest ideas and voted for delivery (bounce house, pizza) and accepted kind offers of generous friends and family.

Rachel's welcoming sidewalk (driveway) art.

Did you know that my sister make the MOST delicious and beautiful cupcakes and cookies? Lucy had a flower and butterfly theme.

Elliott had very specific requests. Chocolate cupcakes with white frosting and red, orange, and black sprinkles . . . and a fire truck. Sheesh, kid. Aunt Hol came through with cupcakes AND firetruck cookies! Thanks, Sister!

Lucy scoped out the bounce house.

It was nice enough to gather outside. We had the party at my parents' house (aka "my party house").

Meg with Benny and Charlotte. We celebrated Benny's first birthday the day prior.

Rachel and Elisa.

Watching the bounce house slide was great fun.

We borrowed a tiny bounce house for the wee ones. Benny was a fan.

Lilly examining the art.

We watched in wonder as all the kids gathered around the table to eat lunch. It's amazing what a little food can do! And daycare training!

Happy Birthday time for Elliott . . .

And Lucy.

She was really excited about her balloons.

Think someone is excited?

Quite a change from his frosting fobia a few years ago.

Lucy mostly mashed her cupcake.

Elliott dove right in.

Birthday parties are a bit odd. Kids play. Then, you fill them up with sugar and send them home. We should flip that around somehow.

Penny and Benny. Hey, that rhymes!

The Donlans popped in just at the end.

And we got to do a quick photoshoot of Hollyn (14 months), Lucy (12 months), and Emma (11 month).

Emma was the only one who wanted to sit still, per usual.

I love this picture of the birthday girl!

Playing with her friends.

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to.

Benny going through Charlotte's tunnel.

And he's out!

Leigh and Hollyn, sporting the party favor shades.

Layla.

The bounce house was so fun that Elliott went running out pantless after everyone had gone home.

Relaxing with Poppy that afternoon.

Thanks to all who made the birthday party so fun! Joint parties for life!