My DIY First Birthday Party

I'm not a big fan of "store" made birthday parties.  The kind where you get Micky Mouse plates, napkins, cups, balloons, etc.  Those birthday parties are fine, just not my style.  I'm sure when Andrey is a little older, she'll ask me for one.  She'll want a Barbie themed party, or a Dora party.  I'll comply.  But she has no say right now!  Sucka.

The first thing I made was her "Happy Birthday Andrey" banner.  

Then I hung up her monthly pictures with the calendar I've been taking.  You know I had to work this in!

I made little cupcake sticks with a 1 in the center (and didn't take any purposeful pictures of them).  Those suckers rocked my Betty Crocker cupcakes.  They made them taste better.  And her little outfit.  Ahhhh...I love that outfit.  That tutu nearly made my fragile, spoiled fingers bleed.  It was a lot of cutting and pulling and cussing.  The shirt is just an iron on number and the headband was from Hobby to the Lobby with a Claire's flower attached.

She smashed her face into the laundry basket the morning of the party - see the red cheek?!

A few paper balloons (also Hobby Lobby) hung from the light.  

Finally, as a parting "thank you" I made some Reindeer Munch.  That stuff is g double o d good.  I made a million paper cones and stuffed the munch inside.  Then I realized I had no place to put them.  Out came an old shoe box.  This little project just kept going.  I added and added until it was a bit embarrassing.  Oh well, it served it's purpose.

There are a few things missing like her chalkboard sign out front.  I was so busy that day I forgot to take all my pictures.  I know, you're totally disappointed.  All three of you who read this.

I loved her birthday party.  I was so nervous that it wasn't going to work in my Christmas decorated house, but it was great.  Thanks to all for coming and celebrating our little girl!