Rethinking a Rose-Themed-Tea-Party-Birthday

(Sweetest Occasion)

 I was talking with a dear friend today about the eldest's birthday party coming up this May. It is a strange phenomena when your first born develops opinions, like what she would like to wear in the morning, or whether she wants milk or water to drink at lunch, or how many sheets of toilet paper is appropriate to pull off to blow her nose. Let me reassure you, I am not going crazy allowing her to make choices left and right, but I am enjoying seeing her become an individual. Realizing she isn't a mini-me. She isn't me at almost-four, she is just Lily at almost-four. 

It is a fine line, reminding them they don't own the world, but not stifling their growing understanding of themselves. I keep reminding myself she is a work in progress, eventually she WILL stop pretending to be a kitten, and will most likely not be a twenty year old wearing four pairs of tights because she likes them all too much to decide which one to put on. 

Actually, it is rather thrilling, like an unexpected breeze blowing through the air, those quick growth spurts in her personality. I am looking forward to seeing these girls in all their lovely (and not so lovely) phases. I can still remember thinking every day lasted forever, and when waiting for a whole week seemed impossible. Now, I look back and the mister has been gone almost six months, Lily can spell her name, and Adelaide can jump with two feet into the air and down stairs (a terrifying and proud sight). Here we go, always moving forward. 

I love party planning, even small parties (especially small ones) for the girls. Sometimes, I feel like I spend too much time planning these little get togethers, but then I think back. I remember those truly special days my mom put together. We didn't have much, and she was "dog-tired most of her thirties," but she made memories for us. Those memories where I felt totally loved and special and cared for. I hope I can give my girls memories they will carry with them as they grow into young women. A mom for almost four years, I see how short this time will be. The time I have to snuggle, cuddle, kiss and tickle them whenever I want. 

So, I want these little parties to bring smiles to their faces when they have their own children someday (a rather bizaar thought). Right now I am working on a tea party/rose theme party (per the eldest's specific requests). Here are some of my favorite ideas that are inexpensive, but will, hopefully, lock up those memories for a long time to come. 

I am on a little paper fan kick lately. I think I could make some of these easily and group them like this all over the chalkboard. So pretty. 

(photo credit: enjoyeventsco)

I thought, if it is nice outside, We could have our tea party on the patio with these lovely balloons (probably red, though) tied to the chairs. Doesn't this image make you smile? Me too. 

(photo credit: enojyeventsco)

And she asked for a rose cake, well these little birds made me happy and fit the rose bill just right. 

One more year, here we come!