The Eve of Elle

There aren't many times that I can recall what I was doing in past years on a particular day. But... tomorrow is Ellorie's third birthday and three years ago I was by J's side trying to help her get through a long and difficult labor. Doesn't seem that long ago. It's also an anniversary for J as a mother. Happy Mother's Day JJ!

To celebrate we had Ellie's party this past Sunday at the Roger Williams Carousel. J planned a great party. We invited lots of kids from the neighborhood and Elle's school.... 14 kidlets in total. They got to ride the carousel as many times as they wanted and eat pizza. Oh yea! and Nana's famous sugar cookies! The carousel was a lot of fun and a great venue. It was moving fast!

After pizza, cake, cookies and the carousel J had a surprise for all of them. Ellie loves Cinderella and it's October. Well, J had a wonderful idea to ask all the kids to help Cinderella's Fairy Godmother to find pumpkin's in the park so she can make a magical carriage. While the kids were eating cake, George, Brian and Steve hide small gourds in the park across the street. We had them line up and Johanna told them the story. At the count of three they bolted! Hunter our neighbor tried to get an early start... hehehe The kids shot off and searched to collected as many pumpkins as they could. There were 3 special white gourds hidden as well. If you were lucky enough to find such a pumpkin you got a special prize!

From there we headed back to the house for more sweets and some close friend/family time without the 14 kidlets. Our family's gave Ellie presents to open on the deck. She was so good about thanking everyone. It made J and I very proud! She got so many awesome presents J had to stay home the next day to help her sort them!!!

We're very lucky to have a great kid and for her to be surrounded by a wonderful family and great friends! Thanks for making Elle's third celebration a great one!