Kardelen's Birthday Party

I'd promised to let you know how it went--so here goes!

Sofia was so excited, she woke up extra early and got to help Mommy make cinnamon graham squares for the party.

Later, I ran to Wal-Mart for helium balloons at naptime. I bought just a few, but I wanted that celebration-feel that helium balloons bring. Kardelen woke up from her nap just 2 minutes before her guests began to arrive!

When we sang the "Happy Birthday" song as I took the gingerbread house out of hiding, she didn't say anything at first. Then she smiled and said softly, "A gingerbread house!" It turned out very fancy, but it was actually a bit difficult for the kids to eat since the royal icing dried so hard. Maybe next time I'll use regular frosting?


We served snacks along with the sugary gingerbread house and cupcakes. Jacob made my favorite chicken flautas, which I had in Mexico and he recreated for me several years ago. They're rolled-up tortillas with a special chicken filling inside. We also set out crabapple cider, spiced hot chocolate, the cinnamon graham squares, and a veggie tray with hummus and homemade tzatziki sauce. Jacob loves making special food for guests, so he had a lot of fun preparing for the party.

A few more pictures from the party:

Kardelen loves her friend (and her new hula hoop)!

She'd been telling us for months that she wanted a real Jeep Cherokee. (How she decided on this, I don't know--but every time she saw one on the road she'd shout, "A Jeep! I want one for my birthday!") Fortunately, about a month ago she changed her mind and decided she'd rather have jellybeans--much more feasible for Mom and Dad! We wrapped them up and noted that they were from Bia, and she shared them at her party.

Kardelen and her other guest unwrapping a present together:

It was as much fun to unwrap as it is to play with! One was included for Bia, too! And the girls both received lovely crayon bags, as well, which really came in handy at the girls' doctor checkups last week.

I wish I'd had a family picture taken on her birthday, but there's always next year. The party was just right, I think; Kardelen felt like it was her special day and enjoyed the two families who came over. At the same time, it was pretty laid-back as we didn't plan any games, just visited and read books with the kids (at their request). We're thankful for a special day, and incredibly grateful that God has blessed us with Kardelen!


Happy birthday, sweet 3-year-old!