The Second Birthday

Having her "friend birthday party" on a weekend clearly meant that she had TWO birthdays... as she reminded me all week. Apparently, I wasn't fast enough in wishing her a "Happy Birthday" this morning as I was thus informed:

"Mom! It's. My. Birthday!"

"...party." I finished for her.

"Say it, Mom!" I was caught off guard. Looking up from decorating her cake I say,

Cute cake idea from my friend, Jamie

"Happy Birthday?"

"No, Mom. Say Happy Birthday to Eliza!" Mustering up the enthusiasm of a cheer leading squad fueled up on Red Bull, I exclaimed:

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELIZA!"

and then she was satisfied.

The morning was spent preparing for the arrival of her guests. Henry was put down to rest early and thankfully, his body was ready for that nap. He snoozed while we played with bubbles outside, sang to the birthday girl, delved into the refreshment and watched as she whipped through the wrapping paper at ludicrous speed! Her friends know her well:

• art supplies for the sidewalk
• a writing tablet for her to practice her letters and numbers (that was the first to be used)
• crafts
• a painting project (she wanted to leave the pool early to get started)
• dress-ups
  
• A My Little Pony
  

I couldn't have chose better myself. She was elated.

And finally, it was time to head over to the neighborhood pool. Despite our "reservation," the current occupants, most of whom were sunbathing, had no idea we were coming! (!!!!!!!!)

Thanks to my morning trip to the Dollar store, we were armed with water/squirt launchers, noodles and inner tubes. No one was immune from getting wet. The parents were great sports. I think everyone enjoyed themselves.
The miracle of the day was that the "isolated and scattered" rainstorm that was predicted arrived an hour after the last party goer left. Hooray for great weather.