Gabriella is now 4 years old! She was able to select her breakfast and dinner that day, so it began with breakfast oatmeal ("Maple and Brown Sugar please") decorated with four lit candles and two parents singing "Happy Birthday" song. She requested to open her presents right after the oatmeal (shocking, I know) and was thrilled to receive more Playmobil toys and dinosaurs.
We brought cupcakes to preschool (she, of course, wore her Princess Gown and pin that read "I'm four") and Mommy joined her at snack time to share in the sugarfest. We left preschool early and, again, per Gabby's request began preparing her favorite dinner - tacos.... and more cake... and one more present that Daddy got last minute (a princess snuggie blanket - every girl needs one in the winter!)
A few days later we had her 'friend' birthday at, of course, THE BOUNCE HOUSE! This year she wanted a few more kids to join and her cousin Katelyn was even able to brave the cold and drive out for it! Here are some pics:
The cake - 9 hours across two days and...
There was homemade raspberry filling in the middle too... as the kid loves raspberries.
The birthday girl herself -- delighted for the bouncing to begin!
Everyone (even Brianna) enjoyed the bouncing. I actually couldn't believe that the chaos of the kids and the large bounce houses didn't even phase Brianna.
Gabriella and her best friend (since 4.5 months) Vincent.
Cousin Katelyn and Aunt Beth
Blowing out of the candles.
The day concluded with some overtired tears, a few whines, and naps on the drive home (and that was just the parents.) We opened presents at home and, I must say, that was the BEST decision ever. Gave the kids more time to bounce and Gabriella was able to open her gifts in a relaxed atmosphere. I had thought it strange when I saw this at other parties but now I can DEFINITELY see the benefit!
