"Best. Day. Ever!"

With the flood that morning, Memorial Day was already getting off to a different start.  As mentioned, I took the kids up to my Mom's that morning to play while we helped take care of the water situation.  As we walked to my Mom's front door, this is what we saw:

Seriously.  Snow on Memorial Day!  So much for Claire's swim party and barbecue at the school!  Luckily, we're getting pretty good at thinking on our toes, so we came up with some stuff to do inside the school. 

When I asked Claire what she wanted for her birthday party, she quickly and unequivocally answered, "Decorations!".  Since she had already told me she wanted a Rapunzel party, that gave me some direction.  Here's what we came up with...

In case it's not obvious, all that yellow streamer is supposed to be Rapunzel's hair.  I think I could have used A LOT more streamer! :)  But Claire liked it, and that's what matters.  Thanks to the covered patio, we were still able to grill burgers and dogs.  Claire had all her local family there, except David, Camillia, and Ruby.  Poor Ruby was sick.

The Vigil Crew-from left to right: Jenny, Matt, Nick, Jessie, and Devin

Pretty much the only other idea I was able to come up with was "Pin the Braid on the Princess"-a take on "Pin the Tail on the Donkey", obviously.  We're so lucky to have an in-house artist!  Aunt Julie spent her Memorial Day drawing this poster, free-hand, for the party.  Claire was in love with it, and it's now hanging on her wall.

To play the game, we pretty much blindfolded the kids and spun them around.  Then they placed their braid (each one was individualized with a monogram tag made by Aunt Katie!) on the poster and Danny taped it in place...

You'll never believe it, but guess who won?  The Birthday Girl herself!

By the time the kids were done with the game, everyone was hungry and the food was ready.  The kids loved eating at their own table, and the adults enjoyed some time visiting.

Then, at long last, it was time to open presents!  Claire was so patient, and it payed off.  She cleaned up...again!

Claire got her Rapunzel cake, just like she wished for.  We just love making our girl happy!

Claire told us as she went to bed that night that it was the "Best. Day. Ever!"  :)  I can't believe our baby girl is four!  Claire, you're a delight every day of your life!  We can't wait to spend another year watching you grow.  Happy Birthday!  We love you!