Big Birthday Month

We've been pretty busy this month celebrating everyone's birthday. Thomas turned 1 on the 5th, then Lilian turned 3 on the 27th. We were able to have little parties for both of them. We did a luncheon for Thomas's party with a Costa Rican theme (being that he is Costa Rican, after all!). I made a traditional party dish from Costa Rica called Arroz con Pollo (Rice with Chicken).

Of course the kids had a great time playing (in the wagon, especially--it was a very novel item for everyone!)

And, we can't forget the cake. I made a yellow cake with a whipped topping in the shape of a Costa Rican flag with a number one. (It was a lot of fun for me!) We used strawberries and mulberries to make the stripes and outlines.

(The number one was made of cake, too.)

Then, for Lilian's party, she's been telling me that she wanted a Pink Princess Party. So, we started her birthday off with pink princess oatmeal--only way to start the day!

For her party, we invited a few of her little friends over. They all started by making their own princess crowns.

Even Thomas tried to get in on the crown-making action!

Then we had finger foods and drinks. I was so proud of the nationals! We had raw veges with Ranch dip, fruit with a cream cheese dip, deviled eggs, and banana bread. They tried everything! The nationals here eat meat, starch, and foods made from corn meal--that's about it! So, they were great sports to try our spread. I realized how big of a stretch it was for everyone when I heard a few of the moms talking about how they had never had raw broccoli before...

And, for the princess party, we brought down the castle. They all took turns playing the evil witches and princesses. It was great fun to watch!

And, Thomas even found a little friend to play with. He kept trying to sit in her lap and play with her hair.

And, Lilian and I made ice cream cake rolls (with pink ice cream, of coarse)!

So, all in all, I think the kids had a blast! And, although I had a good time too, I'm glad now that I can rest a little!