Lachie has been very patient waiting for his birthday since we planned it over the holidays. He couldn't decide between a sleepover or a pool party...so his lovely Mummy agreed on both! His day started with a big pile of presents which he proceeded to guess what each one was before opening...funny, he thought every one was either a brick or socks...he got absolutely NO bricks or socks though! A whole lot of All Blacks gear, an MP3 player, Zac Power books, a Lachie Magpies painting...that's all I can remember right now! Cooper's learning what to do - it's his turn next!
When planning his party we had to take into consideration that most people would want to go to the Waipawa 150 years celebrations...the girls "danced" in the parade then had a mini recital at the park
Lily started Highland dancing on Friday...whether she wants to carry on or not, she now knows exactly how to do it! She just loves these big girls (the bigger girl in turquoise is the world champ for her age)
It was a fair way to walk but they did really well - great morning/early afternoon!
Then...5 boys turned up at 4 as well as Toby from Wellington. They entertained themselves really well, helped me make their dinner (pizzas) and dessert (sundaes) before an obstacle course round the front yard just on dusk
They slept in the tent on the front lawn (with Mike!) and listened to a few of Connor's "scary" stories in the dark (he's such a storyteller!)
Next morning they all jumped on their bikes and bikes along the highway... 
..to Mobil where they crossed, had a little breather and chat to Lily, Eden and James, then carried on down to the stockbank...
...and along to Russel Park and the swimming pool.
Eden and her "little" cousin James walking across the park to the pool
Where we met another 10 or so kids for the second party...with morning tea and of course CAKE! No artificial food colouring and lots of bits for kids to pull off and eat - went down well! 
Pretty cruisy Sunday afternoon with very special guests who surprised us by arriving home from Australia (for good) at 4 that morning!Only 3 months til we can do it all again! Wonder if it will be sunny!?!?