A Candyland Birthday Party

Uncle B made a cute birthday sign that we used to decorate for the party.

The spread-before the guests arrived.

The beautiful cake that brought it all together.

Opening presents from friends.

Anxiously awaiting the cutting of the cake.

Attacking Julio with the water balloons.

All the friends together with their candy boxes.

It is very stressful planning a birthday party-throw in a backyard that needs a total rehaul, and it adds to the stress 100%. Lucia wanted to invite boys this year, so we couldn't do princess or fairies this year. So, we (meaning I came up with the idea) decided to do a Candyland party. I had to order the party supplies online, got the bowls and containers at the dollar store, the food, drinks and candy at Costco, and the talented Wendi made the cake. I found a picture of what I wanted online and she duplicated it perfectly. The kids were in awe of the cake and so excited to dig into it. For decoration, I made paper candy and taped it to the chairs and walls. We borrowed a bounce house from some friends, but it was so hot out, that it didn't attract the kids as much as we would have liked. The kids ate nachos outside, but there was no shade. The heat forced us indoors where we did some games-some more successful than others. We played musical chairs, the bonk game, pass the present. Then Lucia opened her gifts and we had cake. Then we headed back outside for a water balloon toss-which ended up being "attack Julio with all the water balloons". Then the kids got to fill their Candyland boxes with candy and it was done! With 15 kids in the house, it was a little bit wild, but I think they all had a good time. I'm definitely not doing this every year. Thank you to the friends and family who came and helped!