The Birthday Party

Today saw the beginning of the birthday celebrations for James' 4th birthday tomorrow. It began with the singing of Happy Birthday and sharing of "sweeties" at pre-school. He was so thrilled to be the centre of attention (at last!) and all the children said "thank you James" as they received their little packages. Coming home he squealed with delight as Mum and I had decorated the house with balloons and cooked and prepared party food in readiness for the afternoon. At 3.30 Oliver and Mariella, Tom and Will, and little James Pritchard (and their Mums) joined us in the garden for a party. They were welcomed at the gates with balloons which James and Ninny had tied up. Everyone was hungry so we had a proper birthday feast with pizza scrolls, sausage rolls, M&M biscuits, Thomas train wafer biscuits and apple juice and champagne! James opened his lovely presents and then we sang Happy Birthday and he blew out 4 candles on his iced Thomas cup-cakes (he did the icing and decorating - yummy!) Pass the Parcel proved great fun with everyone receiving a little present! The older boys instigated a treasure hunt for chocolate coins around the garden and there was lots of running about through the bushes. At the end of this glorious sunshiny autumn day we are all happily exhausted! One more sleep, James...

Photos are here and here is a short video...