The party's over

Well it was the longest journey we've ever had on Friday but we got there for the party.

Middle sister is 40

fancy dress was worn by most

and tears were shed when littlest sister returned to America at 5 o'clock this morning

motorways and celebrations

this seems to be all we have seen for the last few weeks.  It's one of the problems with living 400 miles from the rest of our family!  Especially when they all have major celebrations in the same year.

we have passed the wicker man six times since mid August and still have another trip to go.

lots of bad indoor party photography

and the lovely old (literally after her 40th) friend that we surprised at her party.  Her scream of delight at seeing us made the whole trip worthwhile.

So one more trip to one more biggie... and this time it's a sister

a birthday party

i can't quite believe it but it's true, she's ten!  i shed a little tear at losing my last little one to double figures but you can't stay sad when she's so happy to be ten!

it began as a mad hatter's party but it was hot and it's difficult to do a three legged race in full costume, so costumes were abandonned and three legged races abounded, not to mention piggy back races and energetic forfeits!  i should mention that this was all held in the park because we only have a teensy tiny yard.  so i watched the weather nervously for three days leading up to the party but it held just long enough.

the party was the day before her birthday so all (my sister and neices are down for the celebrations) were a little droopy on the day.  but we did make a trip to the bumper cars, which they loved, and a ghost train, which made them scream (as it should!).

and though she had many lovely crafty presents, this is the one i'm most excited about, a clothkits doll and dress kit for her to make.  i will certainly be blogging the progress on that one.