Ryan's Birthday-- or Ella's Second Birthday

With Ryan's birthday the day after Eleanor's birthday his birthday gets a little overshadowed.

In attempt to make it a special day,

I made him his very own Tarantula Cake with eyes and pincers.

It was Jack's idea to make Ryan the spider cake and it was a yummy idea.

We learned that Eleanor prefers chocolate cake. I will remember that next year.

She even fed her Daddy some cake.

I think Ryan is pretty okay with sharing his birthday week with such a cute little girl.

Happy Birthday Ryan!

The Happy Birthday Girl!!!

She started her day with a cute new outfit and a trip to Jack's school to have lunch.

(Jack said he was pretending to be me. I guess I always look REALLY happy)

Ella loved all the attention from the girls in Jack's class, while Addy and Jack ran around the playground for recess.

The butterfly cupcakes were a hit with everyone except

Eleanor was not sure what to do with it at first.

She eventually just mashed it into her tray without really eating it.

How can you not love this little girl?
She is full of smiles, giggles, lovey hugs and joy.

except when being forced to wear a party hat.

And they brought me Tim Tams

Laura, Lachlan, Cheryl, Tamara and Neil Campbell
came for a weekend stay.

So happy to spend time with them and introduce them to my kids.

I played with Laura, Lachlan and Tamara when I lived with their family 11 years ago in Sydney for an internship at LDS Family Services.

I loved spending time with these guys as adults too. They are delightful kids and have turned out so amazingly well.

Spending time with Neil and Cheryl brought back all of the wonderful memories that I have from my time in Australia. I loved coming home from work each day and doing the crossword puzzle with Cheryl and having intellectual discussions/debates with Neil. (Apparently I was quite opinionated. Who knew?)

Can't wait to visit these Aussie cousins in 2 years. We'll bring the pop tarts!