Our sweet girl turned one and we had a big birthday bash in her honour!
The party was actually on the saturday before her birthday, as that was the best time to get all of our friends and family together. Luckily the weather held out, which meant we were able to go ahead with our plan to have a garden party with a picnic and games on the grass, more games in the summer house for the slightly older kids, and a trip to the playpark through our secret gate for those who wanted to go. Ralph and I made all the food, including vegan and gluten free options for guests who needed them, but we did decide to order a special birthday cake and a load of cupcakes from My Baker. And I’m glad we did in the end, because we ended up staying up until 11pm the night before the party blowing up balloons and finishing the food prep, so I’m glad I didn’t give myself any more things to do.
The party itself was amazing. Matilda got to see all of her family and best friends. We saw some friends who we hadn’t seen since I was pregnant, mainly just because of distance and the stresses of having a new baby! Everyone had lots to eat, the kids were all suitably entertained, and everyone oohed and aahed over R’s custom Tiger Who Came to Tea decorations. I mean, the theme was actually Wild One, but a tiger still fit the brief so it was ok 😉
On Matilda’s actual birthday, the Monday, we took her to The Deep in Hull for her special birthday treat. She absolutely loved seeing all the big fish and other sealife, and had a great old time being fussed over by her grandparents. I can see this becoming a birthday routine – party on the weekend, then special outing on the actual day. I’m so glad her birthday falls in school summer holidays, as this means we’ll always be able to do something fun with her!