The Party---What a hoot!!!

Gianna's party theme centered around owls.

Not because she loves owls.

Not even because I love owls.

But because I saw these precious owl fabric turned into a halter dress on Etsy.

The Dress

Perfect for a hot summer birthday.

Would've even been more perfect if I hadn't ordered it in a size too big. I spent half the party following her around and pulling it up, even though I took it in a little.  Silver lining:  she can wear it all next summer.

The Invitations

Here are the invitations I designed on Scrapblog

I printed them out on nice cardstock from one of the do-it-yourself wedding invitation packs that I bought years ago at Target on clearance for $5. Ca-ching.

The Cupcakes

I found this idea online and knew it would be perfect.

Oreos for the eyes (double stuff, off course), Junior Mints for the pupils, M&M for the beak and "sawed off" Oreos for the eyebrows.  The actual cupcakes were made from scratch (super easy, super chocolately and super moist) from a recipe I've found here. I even made them a couple of days ahead and froze them so I wouldn't go into my typical last minute party panic mode when I finally embrace the reality that I am NOT Martha Stewart.

The Cake

I made her cake too.  The cake tastes amazing, but my decorating skills leave a lot of room for growth.

I painted a little owl....don't ask me why.

Happy Birthday!

And then the blowing of the candles...

That last frame is totally worth enlarging....

Let them eat cake!

And let them find alternative ways of eating cake!

Look Ma, no hands!

Awesome gifts from wonderful friends and family.

Some of her MANY photo books.

Nate and Gianna

My favorite pic of the day. (I'll make you a copy KD)

What a fun day for a fun little two year old.

Ultimate sign of a successful party...

The End. (literally!)

Llinking up to Show Us Your Life at Kelly’s Korner.