Howe Two: Party Time!

Jillian's big day was full of celebration. She woke to discover a room full of balloons, and I could hear her say, "Oh my goodness!" When she flipped on her light. We all headed downstairs, where she found her presents waiting.

Adrienne did a lovely job of picking out a Snow White doll and her very own horse. Jillian was quite pleased.

Mom and Dad's gift was up next. Did we come through with her only consistent birthday wish????

We did! Jillian is now the proud owner of her very own Care Bear, thanks to some vigilant internet searches for the surprisingly rare stuffed friends.

Matt thought it would be fun to take her somewhere for lunch that makes a big deal out of birthday songs, so we ended up at Applebee's. She turned around to check out all the commotion and discovered they were coming to sing just for her, and leave a tasty birthday treat.

After a VERY short "rest time" that did unfortunately not include any napping, we headed over to the RAC for Jillian's princess-themed party. I loved this party. The RAC did everything. All I had to do was show up with a cake and candles. Since no homemade cakes are allowed, my hands were tied, and I was off the hook.

Princess table decor, complete with crowns and boas

Our princess admiring the Disney Princesses

Jillian's friend, Ellie came all the way from Minneapolis to attend

The kids started out playing in the Play Smart, a sort of hamster-cage like structure. Parents love this because we can see them and there is only one way out!

Princess Adrienne wears her crown

The Queen Mum

Soon it was time for some structured games. The kids did their best to listen while the staff gave instructions

Time for the parachute!

Doting dads...Matt and Felix. Soon, Adrienne and Emmy will be attending each others' parties, just as their big sisters do.

Fatigue starts to set in...

...but she'll never admit it!

It's time for cake and ice cream

The Princess Cake. Thank you Hy-Vee, I had one excited little girl!

Sizing up her task

She got the job done, with a little help from Dad

I thought "big" 3 year olds were supposed to use utensils? Jillian seemed to only want to eat the cake (that was massively covered in frosting) with her hands.

After the party we rushed home, where Jillian donned her Halloween costume to attend the neighbor's party. Have you ever seen a more lovely Snow White?