Taelyn's 2nd Birthday Party

Birthday parties are not always the fun and games the people think of when it involves babies and toddlers. While Taelyn's first birthday party was a bit overwhelming for her, her second was a small improvement. Still filled with up and down moments, overall, she had a great time. Taelyn insisted on wearing her Abby costume all day (including nap time) and then to the party. She opened presents at home where she got a huge stuffed caterpillar from Kaelia and a sticker book and castle from us. Taelyn loved them all.

We then went to a local restaurant that has picnic tables set up around a large playground/kid playing area for the birthday party. There are several jungle gyms, a climbing wall, coin-operated riding machines, and a bouncy castle. 15 of Taelyn's favorite people in South Africa came to join in on the festivities.

The start of the party did not look too promising. It was raining (the only time all week) and Taelyn was incredibly cranky from waking up much earlier than usual from her nap. But as the party went on, so did the rain, and Taelyn warmed up a lot more, having a fun-filled time. She enjoyed repeat trips to the slide, and we could not pry her away from the bouncy castle.

When it was time for cake, everyone crowded around to sing Happy Birthday. Taelyn was already familiar with the song thanks to a great Elmo card from Great Aunt Andy that had been singing to her the entire week before. But because she was a bit cranky that day, she immediately clung to me at the start of the song in a bit of a panic. At the end of the song, though, Taelyn started smiling and clapping. She then proceeded to blow out the candles and had to stand on the table in order to bend over close enough. With a little help, the flames were out, and we all enjoyed eating her Winnie the Pooh cake. Taelyn really liked this part too, contrary to her first birthday.

Overall, the party was a success. Taelyn came home exhausted and happy with a full bell and fun gifts from her friends.

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