Princess for a day

There is no question that it is birthday season—we’ve already been to a number of fun parties in last six weeks, and there are many more to come! Few however, have been as intensely anticipated as the royal party that Franny attended this weekend. For the past week, Franny has been asking questions about what to expect at this event—what the kids would all wear and what they would do. The morning of the party there was no question she was both excited, as well as nervous. The kids came in their royal attire, dressed up as princesses, kings and queens, as well as a jester and a dragon. There was a great castle made out of large cardboard boxes, complete with tunnels and a dungeon; pin the lips on the frog prince; crafts to decorate a treasure box and crown; and a fun scavenger hunt to fill the treasure boxes.

It’s interesting to see what a big deal princesses are to these little girls—I really don’t think there is much distinction between reality and fantasy. The opportunity to dress up and become part of this world was a very big deal for Franny—to a level that I didn’t realize until I saw her little face full of both awe and anxiousness for nearly the entire party. All the excitement was a lot for her to take in, and by the end, Franny was thoroughly exhausted, to say the least—I don’t think a thousand peas could have disturbed this princess’ sleep last night! I hope her wonderment doesn’t diminish before we have the opportunity to take a family trip to Disneyland.

Princess Francesca

Franny decorating her treasure box with jewels

The castle maze

The 4-year-old sophisticate

What ever happened to criss-cross-applesauce?

Let the sun shine in!

Franny always loves to visit Grandma and Grandpa’s, but our recent stretch of beautiful weather has enabled even more fun--riding the four-wheeler, swinging on the tire swing, playing T-ball, and even just sitting around in the sun.  Hopefully, it will continue for a long time!

The need for speed

Within reason, Grandpa always accommodates Franny and Cole’s requests for a ride on the four-wheeler (Franny) or a trip out to see the horses (Cole).  Given his latest reactions, Cole will probably ride a horse before he climbs on the four-wheeler, but Franny absolutely loves it, especially when she is sandwiched between two of her very favorite people.  On our last soup night gathering, Grandpa pulled it out for Franny for a last-minute run.  Lucky girl!  It was non-stop smiles until she was forced to stop to take pictures!

Easter irony

Franny LOVES her new Easter dress.  She’s worn it to school, the park, around the house, and has even insisted on sleeping in it.  On Easter Sunday, however, I found myself with two dead camera batteries and unable to take pictures of Franny and Cole in their Sunday best at church service amongst all the beautiful flowers.  Although I could later get Cole back in his clothes, hoping to at least get a picture of them together on Easter, Franny refused.  She has since worn it probably everyday.  Of course, a four-year-old’s stubborness is not the easiest way to be reminded that Easter isn’t about the clothes, but I did find her timing remarkably appropriate.

Egg hunt of sorts

Franny's playgroup had a very fun morning at the Bethany Village Center.  Their morning began with story time at Bliss Cupcake, a very kid-friendly and fun place, where they read lots of fun books about bunnies.  Then, they began their Easter egg hunt.  Less of hunt, and more like trick-or-treating, the kids had a list of businesses where they went to collect stamps to turn in for a raffle and of course, eggs and treats.  It was great for the kids, as they got lots of fresh air and exercise walking around the area, and their fun continued for three hours (including lunch), rather being over in five minutes.  In the end, they got all the stamps and were entered in the raffle.  To be sure, all the kids want the prize of a dozen Bliss cupcakes.  We'll see!

 

The kids with their bunny tails at story time.  Cole didn't care much for his!

The kids checking out the treats at the local bakery/restaurant

Franny and her dear friend.  They held hands nearly the whole time!

Franny's party

This weekend, Franny finally had her long-awaited birthday party at OGA.  She has been asking about all the details, from which of her friends would be able to come to what kind of cake she was going to have.  Needless to say, she had the time of her life.  She was grinning from ear-to-ear from beginning to end (well, until she lost her pink balloon to the lofty rafters of the gym) and was flying high for hours to follow. For Franny--as I would assume with most other kids her age--there is an overwhelming joy that comes from being around other kids, which compares to none.  And, I couldn't be happier with the friends that Franny has chosen for herself--they are really great kids, as is she.  I had gone back and forth about whether to give Franny such a big party, but in the end I am glad we did.  Happy Birthday, sweet Franny!

Zone 1

Yesterday, during a walk in NW, Franny saw a little girl playing in a sprinkler, and of course, wanted to do the same. Although we don't have a portable sprinkler, we did the next best thing--Zone 1. The kids had lots of fun, and it was a great way to end a beautiful and fun-filled weekend.

Fun at the Pirate Park

Sometimes, words are just unnecessary...

Birthday joys

Isn't licking the spoon the best part of making any birthday cake?

Franny is 4!

Today was Franny's fourth birthday. Because she's having a big party on Saturday, we had just a small celebration, and Franny spent some special time with Grandma and Grandpa, opening gifts and enjoying some ice cream.  It's amazing how much she has changed over the last four years, and what an incredible and special little girl she has become.  I can't wait to see what the next four years will bring.