Three and Free :: birthday celebration

Yesterday we celebrated my son and his girlfriend turning 3. The two of them began being friends while still in our bellies --So yes, they have literally grown up together :) This was the first time I had done a joint birthday party and I must say, I LOVED it! I always have more fun planning something when others are involved. It was great to come up with ideas together and then split some of the executing. Not to mention our children adore each other and we can never get enough of watching the two of them play. Huge thanks to my friend Diane who was a perfect co-host and who had the perfect house for this event.

Since it was a coed birthday we did a simple ice cream theme with a mix of pastel colors. On our list of must haves, a photo backdrop was pretty high up there. So we took some old (free) pallets that had been sitting on the side of my house for way too long and gave the hubbies a job ;) I must say I give them major props. It turned out just as I hoped and they did a fabulous job in a very timely fashion.

The birthday morning was filled with smiles, laughter, sweets, more sweets, good chatter, running around, and even a donut eating contest. This was a beautiful gathering and celebration for both the kiddos and adults. I can't believe my son is three!

a derby baby shower

Today I got to be a part of another beautiful baby shower thrown for my good friend Aly. Since the mommy-to-be loves horses and the racetrack, it was so fitting that it be a derby shower. The guests came wearing their festive hats and bets were placed to see when baby brooklyn was going to make her big debut. The gorgeous color combo of grey and soft pink filled the backyard while lots of chatter and laughter filled the air.

the lovely mama-to-be

Loved the idea one of the girls had: pink rocking horse for the guests to all sign

One of the gals came up with the idea to make a virgin mint julep as one of the beverages since this is said to be a common drink at derby parties. I was on drink duty and was excited to try a new recipe out. So glad this drink choice was chosen because it turned out delicious... even with a splash of champagne for those who wanted a little extra something :) I will be making this drink again for sure. Recipe here

just catching the flying umbrella...

winners of the hat contest...

a little "sprinkle"

Yesterday my friend Tiffani and I threw a "sprinkle" (a gathering that is lighter, smaller, and less chaotic than the first baby shower) for my good and gorgeous friend Shannon who will soon be having her second baby boy. I must say that it turned out quite perfect in my opinion. There were nine of us ladies (awesome group might I add), a great size where it felt intimate and we could have one table conversation if we wished. We planned a morning sit down brunch at a gorgeous and quiet facility in Poway called Maderas. With just a little table decor, we were ready to sprinkle the mama with love and luck for baby #2, aka Hudson. Mommy talk filled the air of course and everyone's company was enjoyed by the guest of honor. The perfect way to celebrate the upcoming arrival of baby #2.

To thank everyone for coming we gave them each a painted "shoe" that said "make a wish." Hoping everyone's wishes come true! I love the way the dipped horseshoes look and they made an awesome favor. You can find them for sale soon  at my shop everly b.

Personalized onesie for baby Hudson...

loved this yarn wrapped letter made by miss Tiffani..