the party

{My motivation has taken holidays, just like kindy. I loathe letting things drag on and I get angry at myself for letting it happen. These photos should have been here a week ago but life got in the way. I hate when that happens.}

I took a chance with the weather when we decided to have Ruby's party at a park. I wasn't comfortable having that many people in my home that weren't family. Come Wednesday before the party, I had to make a decision whether we needed a contingency plan. Weatherman was consulted, prayers were said - cloudy with possible showers (1-5mm) - I thought that was manageable. We left sunny, blue skies behind us as we drove away from home Sunday morning, and then drove into steady rain, ten minutes out from the park. Cue cold sweats, internal swearing at weatherman, more prayers..

We arrived at the park where the clouds parted and the sun shone warm, and bright. Dear God, THANKYOU!

My wonderful sister and her equally wonderful MIL met us early to help set up, pulling a giant number 5 in their wake. The bubbles were a hit. So were the oreo pops. Every adult commented on them and most mums asked how to make them. Pinterest is the bomb.

It really was a beautiful morning. Somehow I catered perfectly, usually I over do it and we are eating leftovers for the following few days. The kids played happily on the awesome, enclosed playground. They blew bubbles, and chased the giant ones coming out of the bubble machine. It was all too much for Cole who conked out while everyone was singing to the birthday girl. Dolly travelled perfectly to the park, next to me, wedged firmly into the front passenger seat. She was fabulous and so very, very delicious. I didn't get all the photos I wanted to, playing hostess and photographer just doesn't work.

We all left exhausted and happy. Birthday girl in particular. Mama grateful she spaced the smalls' birthdays out over the year so she can recover from parties..

I doubt he will read this, but I have to thank my darling hubby for all his help. He usually stays well away when I am in planning/baking/party mode so as not to get in the way. This time, he asked what I needed, and he did it. He stayed up with me till well after 1am the night before the party so he could pack the cars as much as possible so there would be little to do the following morning. He read lists, he crossed off tasks, he came back for more. And he didn't complain once. Thankyou my love! This one wouldn't have been done without you xx

*images 9, 10, 11, 12 and 17 courtesy of my sister

the party prep
invitations