Birthday Bash - Part One

Sunday was Maddie's second birthday. All week we talked to her about how old she would be and how we'd play and have cupcakes and visits. We even taught her to say how old she would be! We thought she'd want some play time with her buddies on Saturday and also some family time on Sunday -- so we gave her two parties instead of one.

Well, the gathering on Saturday wasn't really planned as a party, but as a small, fun playtime with cupcakes. OK, it involved cupcakes, so it was a party.

We asked her if she wanted balloons for her birthday. Yes. What kind of balloons would you like? DORA!

I was really trying to wait until her fifth or sixth birthday before caving in to the cartoon character-themed parties and decorations. But this was her only request... She got two Dora balloons. What can I say?

Pre-party. Notice the gigantic Dora balloon (1 of 2!) in the background.

Her friends Noah and Stella Dot came over to partake in the yummy snacks. Oh, and they brought gifts! Oh, and their parents!

I think it's important to note here that Stella Dot opted for the vanilla on vanilla cupcake while Noah went for the vanilla on chocolate cupcake. Maddie picked out the chocolate on chocolate cupcake. She's her mother's daughter!

Stella Dot's Mom, Amy, made this gorgeous knitted elephant for Maddie. Noah gave her a cool magnetic dress up doll which she loves.

We had a great time and opened presents, rode the rocking horse and played dress-up. Poor Noah was dressed in a princess/fairy outfit as well. Hey, don't judge, everyone was entertained! Um, except maybe Noah's Dad.

Two hours into the fun, Maddie became upset and overly sensitive to anyone touching any of her things. She just wasn't herself and wasn't having fun anymore. We said goodbye to our friends and spent some cuddly time with her until she went to sleep.

Up next is Part Two -- Sunday with the family. I'll upload everything as soon as I can!