Slice of Heaven

Mexican Fiesta!!!

Eric's 8th Birthday Party

Eric's Mexican fiesta was a huge success...lots of kids, lots of games, mariachi music and mostly, lots of fun! Eric had 10 friends over for his party, although we really weren't sure if it was going ot happen until Saturday morning. Leah had gotten a stomach virus earlier in the week, and it was really taking its toll on her, but she was well enough to spend the day with Heather's mom, away from all of the commotion during the party.

We decorated with red/white/green streamers, painted cacti on posterboard and hung on the wall, red/white/green balloons, lots of mexican blankets and sombreros, and played mariachi music (I found it at the library). The kids came in and went to work on some crafts...they decorated ponchos and maracas. I also had tissue paper flowers for them to make, but we didn't get to that because there wasn't enough time. There were actually lots of things we didn't get to do because of time, but that's always better than having too much time :) After the crafts, we played a Mexican card game to win Mexican jumping beans (found them online). Then it was time for the taco bar which was a huge hit for everyone! Since it was a beautiful day outside (55 degrees), I sent them all out to play a relay game called Mexican kickball, which is like an obstacle course done while kicking a soccer ball. I was very thankful for the nice weather so they could burn off some energy outside! We came in and did the Mexican hat dance in a circle with our sombreros, maracas, etc. We played pass the sombrero (like hot potato to music) and then did the pinata. Eric had a great time and said it was his best birthday ever, but he always says that!!! I don't know how long I can continue to plan these big parties with Bay and Leah growing up, I know that we'll probably have to alternate years for parties eventually, but although it is a lot of planning, it really is so much fun to celebrate their birthdays in such a big way.

We are so amazed that Eric is 8 years old, and keep thinking how much closer he is getting to adolescence...scary! But still so much a little boy right now :)

Here's a few more pictures from the party.