Lauren's Birthday Party

For Lauren's 3rd Birthday party, the "theme" was Strawberry Shortcake. I picked this, not because it's her all-time favorite cartoon character, but because that's the cake she was having. Nice, huh. Since the taboo on milk products, I opted for Angel Food cake with a variety of toppings. We had strawberries, raspberries, pineapple, and Cool Whip (which happens to be Lauren's ice cream). Anyway, we had a great time, even though part of it was in the dark. I reserved the pavilion at the park from 6-8. The park hours are from dawn to dusk. I assumed that they wouldn't let you rent the pavilion for when they were closed. Silly me. By the time we were done eating, the kids played for a little bit and the had to get right into the cake cutting and presents. However, by the time we started presents, it was dark. It was getting to the point that if I wanted to actually see what Lauren got, I had to take a picture with the flash and look at the screen. We had to rush through the cake and presents in order to get out of there before we were kicked out by the cops. Lauren had her friends Sydney & Layla [who's birthday was also the 28th, just a year later], as well as their parents [Scott & Susan Burke and Anthony & Sonia Sisler], there. Emma was sick, so Lori graciously left her at home with James, while she came with Megan. Things went well, except that Stefanie Burke and Ryan kept hugging. It all climaxed as Ryan kissed her. These romances start at such a young age nowadays. :)

Anyway, after the party, Lauren opened her gifts from MI at home. Lauren got a mop & broom set and Ryan took to it right away. Yes, that's Ryan. Lauren and Ryan now fight over who gets to do housework. This is great! I should get them a vacuum and child-safe cleaning supplies, then I would only have to fix meals. Life is great!! :)

P.S.- Scott took all the pictures, so if you like them, give him the credit.