Ellis' 4th Birthday Bash

Ellis helping with fairy house supplies a few days before the party (wooden toadstools, her idea)

Up at 7, watching for her friends to arrive...at 11.

"This is gonna be SO AWESOME!!"

 Pepperoni pizza and ladybug apples lunch:

 Treasure hunt time!  Each kid was given their own treasure-hunting bag.  Inside Ellis' was a note that said: 'Some fairies and elves stopped by to add some fun to this party.  They've left five clues to lead you to surprises and treasures..."

And then also the first clue:

 'There once was some candy to chew

Out of your mouth 'twas sticky as glue

If this rhyme you can follow

And you're careful not to swallow

You just might find your next clue.

G o  U nder  M acia's crib'  (GUM)

Ellis' bag:

'You're getting so close

I hope you're not bored

It's almost time to claim the final reward.

First you'll need a brilliant disguise

It will stick under your nose, not your eyes

Dads can grow them

(and some moms, too)

Go to the room where Dad shaves

(and also goes poo).'

'Swing so high your toes touch the trees 

Find this place and dig on your knees

Soon you'll discover colorful treasures

Will they grow a magic beanstalk like Jack?

Or turn out to be a sweet, tasty snack?'

(Jelly Belly Jelly Beans)

'There once was a family of foxes

Who made their den in our yard

Ellis knows where if she thinks really hard

Help her find this place in the trees

For this is where your final treasure will be!'

("treasure bundles" which were crepe paper balls with all sorts of tiny prizes wrapped up inside--they had to unravel them to find all the toys...and they took a lot longer to make then they did to "unmake"  :)

Unraveling their Treasure Bundles:

Cake and presents:

  

The after-party with Finley and Amelie:

Gabe took most of the photos, so unfortunately Gabe is not IN any of the photos.  It was such a fun day

Skating is expensive and sisters are cute

Slow and steady wins the race.  Not so much in this case, but it does prevent bum bruising since Ellis can now skate without falling more than once or twice a class.  Two lessons left.  Last week she said she was done and didn't want to go to ice skating anymore.  I told her it was too expensive to quit early.  It was a really inspirational moment we had.

Maci just sucking on an old toothbrush.  Second child.

There is something unmatched about watching two people you birthed entertain each other.  And also, Ellis requested to be in the crib. It's her tower or something.

There is a doll under her dress.  Going for the "with child Princess" look

 Love this:

Maci!  :)