Anna's Birthday Party

Anna's second birthday party was Saturday. My family and some neighbors joined us for a jungle-themed celebration. I decorated the dining room with cardboard banana trees and animals, and, of course, tons of balloons! Anna squealed when she saw me come in with three dozen balloons. That alone was worth the hassle!

She had such a wonderful time. Ne Ne brought her 'charges' Elizabeth and Elena who played with Anna most of the day - all three seemed to have a blast. Anna got so many new clothes for spring and some fun new toys. She especially likes the computer from Grandma and Granddad and veggies/fruits from Uncle Michael and Uncle Ransom. I loved the strawberry dress from Uncle Jimmy and Ne Ne. Elizabeth and Elena gave Anna a 'Build a Bear' gift certificate. I was hoping to take Anna on her actual birthday to do it, but we'll see how things go. I'd like Dave to participate so we may wait until the weekend when we have enough to enjoy it.

I was disappointed by one thing - we had ice cream cake and Anna enjoyed it after she got over how cold it was! I checked the video after everyone was gone and Anna was in bed only to find that that was the one part of the day that didn't record. I have no idea why. I was so disappointed. It was a great close up - the facial expressions were priceless, plus she said 'bye bye' right before I turned it off. I was thinking about redoing it this Thursday (her actual birthday), but it just won't be as good since it'll be her second time having the cake. Ugh! Technology!

Grandma and Granddad are taking us out for dinner on Thursday to celebrate, and Anna will open the present from Dave and me. She was a bit overwhelmed by everything Saturday so I figured I'd space out the gift opening. She doesn't really open well yet, but I thought if we had a little more time, I could help her do it rather than doing it for her. I'll let you know how it goes. . . So until then. . .