This is what the house looked like before all the kidlets arrived. Although to be honest this picture was taken after I cleaned up the 5-gallon bucket of flour I had spilled on the kitchen floor half-an-hour before guests arrived. Gah. What a mess.
In a moment of sheer brilliance, Trav and I decided to build a barn for the party out of cardboard boxes. This was probably one of our better party ideas. The kids climbed in and out all night long and we had some toy cows and pigs they could throw in through the little hay loft window. Also - see those cute little barn gift bags on the mantel? Thank goodness for Target's dollar spot this month, I found those and all these cool farm toys that made up the majority of the goody-bag treasures for the party.
As they were arriving we had all the kids make animal ear hats. Here's the entire crew with their creations. Petey looks pretty pleased to have all his friends around, doesn't he?
After playing a few farm-themed games, it was time to open presents. Sheer pandemonium I tell you. But I tell you that the boy made out like a bandit! His little friend's mommies sure exactly what he likes: Cars, Toy Story, and farm stuff. Probably the favorites were a Cars umbrella (which he loves - especially since it rained today and he got to use it) and a Uno Moo game. Also, notice the elusive shot of Michelle large with child. I am feeling every day of my 6 months lately.
Then we gathered the kids for cake and ice cream. I don't know what I was thinking but I made the cake myself - which involved a bit of drama since I was still frosting and decorating it 10 minutes before all the guests arrived. Eek! But I think it turned out cute. Petey wanted white cake and Trav wanted chocolate so we had a layer of each. Although we still have plenty of left-overs, so if you'd like a slice, stop on by.
The kids all seemed to enjoy my efforts.
We had a wonderful time, but man, were we ever beat afterwards! I'm pretty sure we won't be doing another party like this for a few years but it sure was fun to throw something big for Peter before this next baby arrives. Happy Birthday Peter!!