A "Royal" Party

We had Brooke's birthday party with her friends this past Saturday morning. Seven of her friends were able to come: Haley, Emily F., Emily W., and Shawn from church, Tye and Grace, and of course Lexi. Several of the neighborhood girls also made an appearance. There's nothing specific that Brooke's into/obsessed with these days so we went with a "royal" theme (let's be honest - it would've been "princess", but we didn't want to emasculate the boys in attendance - Matt's wishes). It was really fun to see Brooke and her friends enjoying themselves. This is the first party that was truly all about her.

When the kids arrived, they got to make their own crowns. In the future, I will not have glitter glue available as it takes forever to dry.

There was also a paper crown station with dot markers when they were finished making their actual crowns.

And Legos to make a "castle" after that. (I harkened back to my preschool OT days to stretch with matching some of the activities with the theme. I also borrowed/tweaked several ideas that I've seen on other blogs or gotten from friends.)

Once everyone had arrived and made their crown, they picked an instrument for a "royal" parade. Marching bands are one of Brooke's favorite things and she has plenty of toy instruments to share.

We marched downstairs for a rousing game of "Princess, Princess (/Prince), Frog."

Then moved right into "Pin the Princess (/Diego) in the Castle." Diego stickers were actually more popular than the Princess stickers. Who knew?

Then we went back upstairs to decorate cookies. This was an all-hands-on-deck activity. Thanks to all the adults who were there! (And thanks for the idea, Amy!)

Next, the kids went outside for a game of "Hit the Bubbles with Your Wand".

Matt learned quickly that bubble blowing should be done from up high. I think he took a wand or two to the face.

Next was lunch time.

Singing to the Birthday Girl.

Present time!

...and finally some peace and quiet.

It was so much fun to see my girl having fun with her friends and having them celebrate her! And this guy thought it was fun to watch, too. Thanks for the pictures, Krissi and Debbie!