An overdue post about Addison's birthday

which was cute and from which we are all still recovering. 

He day began in the morning, early.  She was convinced on Saturday that she was going to be 26 for her birthday.  When she woke up, she had decided she would be 6.  Who knows where were at today.  Since we started getting ready the night before, she was super excited to get all set up.  Princesses was the theme, with a few plastic swords for the boys, and oh-so-much PINK!   

This was the final party outfit.  We danced around to Disney Princess Playlist before guests arriving to get in the spirit.  

Papa went out of his way to build a beautiful stage for Addi to dance and sing on.  Our requested a few months back...a little stage that she could sing on.  Nothing fancy.  What we got....

Pink galore! with handpainted stars (courtesy of nana and aunt lyndsey) and the phrase "Everybody Clap Now" - a common phrase (instruction) that Addison says when she's finished her latest performance.  

Complete with side entrances. 

And a microphone, High School Musical (no, we've never seen it but it was the only one we could find ANYWHERE so we are learning "we're all in this together" quickly) which was opened a bit later.   

We were joined by Uncle steve & uncle stan

Conor, who is cute as a button

Eva, who sang back up, and Krista, who sang lead most of the afternoon.

Parker, who was almost old enough to enjoy the cupcakes.  

And Aunt Lyndsey

There was a point where Addi got a bit tired and slightly overwhelmed...

 but nothing a rest couldn't fix.

We ate cupcakes which were delicious.

And opened too many presents

and fell in love with her shopping cart from aunt krista and uncle stan.  

And then danced and sang the night away.   It was like a flashback to a 60s night in the park as Will played the guitar.

And yes, that's a recorder.  I bought 10 and took back 6.  My response to the lady at Target that asked "is there anything wrong with them?"  "They are too damn annoying to keep in the house!"  They are not nearly as loud as I remembered from when I played one in 3rd grade.  Word to the wise...do not buy these if your neighbors find kids annoying.  They may just send them over the edge...

It was a great afternoon.  She went to bed that night asking if we could go to her party again tomorrow.  Will laughed....364 days he said!