Circus Party

Well, between cupcake conundrums, feverish five year olds, and feral kittens, I haven't had a chance to post about Lily's 5 year old circus party.


I woke up the morning of the party in a stressed out state. Apologizing to my husband for getting out of control on yet another birthday party. Had I spent too much money? Invited too many people? Will the guests not feel special because they were one of many? Will parents think it was a gift ploy?


If they only knew Lily. Well, they do. So they should know that she is the social butterfly type and totally keeps up with all her pals...even by phone. Not kidding. Have you ever heard one side of a phone conversation between 4 year olds? Punctuated with occasional "I love yous"? It is just about the sweetest thing ever.


Anyway, my amazingly calm natured hubby squelched my 6AM, 11 hours to party time stress with one question. "Are the kids going to have fun?"


"Well....yes!"


"Okay, then...the parents will too and it will be a great party."


I love that man. He was right. It was a blast...although having back to back parties at a rented pavilion can be a bit crazy when it only gives you 15 minutes to set up.

We were heading towards a ballerina theme, but after our box seat circus adventure, we decided on that...which was much more friendly toward all of her little boy friends.

We served grilled hot dogs, popcorn, cracker jacks and animal crackers. The kids had their faces painted (by a dear friend who stepped in when Lily's NeNe came down with the flu!), had balloons made, and played on an amazing wooden play structure.

Jerry didn't think we'd be able to get them off the park...but one call of "cupcakes!" and they all came running.

Even one girl who wasn't with our party joined the cupcake fun. Her mom later came to retrieve her. Too funny! (She's the one in yellow in the slide show pics)

I love my kids and love doing parties for them, but by the time this one was done (our seventh one!) I had decided we're going to tone them down in the future. I mentioned this to Lily and she was not going for it.

You'd think with 25 friends there, she'd be overwhelmed. Instead she was completely exhilarated. The next day she asked me by name why 3 particular little friends had not been at her party. I was shocked...how could she have even noticed in all the chaos?!?

Friends, I think I've created a monster. Just in time for Halloween, too.