Part Two: The Birthday Party

The party really was a blast. This was the first year that Ella and Zoe invited friends, as well as their cousins who are close in age. Everyone was able to make it -- and from the smiles and laughter, everyone seemed to have a fun time too!

The party started in a private room where the kids decorated their frog headbands, we had cake and ice-cream and opened the presents.

*Making Birthday Crowns and Frog Headbands*

*The Cupcakes*

*Ella Blowing Out Her Candles*

When it was cake time Ella couldn't find her crown so she wore this hat instead, which was truly so fitting for her : )

*Zoe Blowing Out Her Candles*

*The Birthday Girls Eating Cake and Ice-Cream*

*Opening Gifts*

I have to say, Zoe and Ella received THE NICEST presents from everyone!! I was somewhat blown away by the generosity and choices people made, it was very, very nice.

Then the party moved into the main indoor space, where the kids had a little time to check things out, pose for a group shot . . .

. . . and watch the puppet show

about animals in the spring.

Because it was an unbelievably warm day for mid-April in Minnesota, we went on a nature walk down to the pond (led by Teacher Carol, who is a naturalist) . . .

. . . and walked over the pond on a boardwalk!!

We saw lots of ducks, geese, snails and dragonflies and heard the ducks, geese, squirrels and other birds too -- and NO ONE fell into the pond!!

After the walk the kids had time to explore some more in the exhibit area before it was time to say goodbye and thank-you, and hand out the wildflower seeds and magnifying glasses.

Once home I had to give Zoe an extra hug . . .

. . . and Ella too . . .

. . . and just spend some time snuggling with my two almost 4-year olds!!