Ella's Birthday

Ella turned 4 this year, and what little 4-year-old girl doesn't love princesses? So we celebrated like royalty and had over 4 of her best friends, Julia, Stella, Jena & Addie, all dressed as princesses, of course.

Ella dressed in her new Sleeping Beauty dress from Nanny and Pop-pop.  She wanted to curl her hair, too, so we did. Lots of mousse and hairspray!

Here's a shot of her hair....

We started out with a little crown decorating & face painting (we did Ella's face before the party began):

Early on, Ella had a little emotional setback.  Too much excitement I guess.  And it's her party, so she'll cry if she wants to!

Big sister Lexi was a BIG help during the party- teaching the girls how to play "Kiss the Frog" (aka Pin the kiss on the frog's mouth).  Stella got it right on!

Pass the Poison Apple (for Snow White)... aka Hot Potato

It was a tie!

Freeze Dance (did they play Freeze Dance at Cinderella's Ball?)

Then a little snack time and free play time in Ella's room where we had set up the princess tent and some toys. Ella's favorites: strawberries, quesadillas & goldfish.

Presents!  She was so happy with everything she got.  But the gift that stole the show for everyone was the musical jewelry box from Jena.  All the little girls just sat and watched the little ballerina dancing to the music.  When it stopped, they'd wind it back up and listen again over and over and over and over..... it went everywhere the girls went for the rest of the afternoon!

Lemon Cupcakes (requested by Ella, made by mom) and Ice Cream!

And after everyone left and Ella decided to have another cupcake, she couldn't eat it without the musical jewelry box at her side.

(Thanks to Aprille for being the unofficial photographer! I wouldn't have half the photos I have without her help).