Barnyard Bash!

So I officially survived Gavin's first "real" birthday party. I say this because for his first birthday we did something really low key with just immediate family. This year we went all out, or should I say, I went all out :)

I started planning this party back in January. My goal was to buy a little each month so that our pocket book wouldn't feel a massive dent. This meant that I had to pick a theme 7 months ago. Gavin wasn't really into just one thing back in January so I decided on a "barnyard bash". Little did I know that he would soon become obsessed with "trucks".

We had the "barnyard bash" at the clubhouse in my dad's neighborhood. They have a wonderful playground and a great air conditioned facility that is an absolute must in SA's 100 degree heat. The menu consisted of hamburgers and hot dogs. I really wanted to make the cupcakes for Gavin's party and I found some really cute ideas on the Internet. I made pig and rooster cupcakes that came out really cute and were super easy.




I ordered the cake from one of my fellow teachers who makes the most delicious cakes. Since I already had the pig and rooster I wanted the cake to have a cow theme. She did an awesome job.



I wanted the party to have the full barnyard effect so we hired a petting zoo for the main attraction. We had pony rides, baby pigs, chickens, a sheep and a goat. Gavin wouldn't touch the animals, and I barely got him to ride the pony. So much for my grandiose idea of him galloping away into the sunset :)







In keeping with the theme and trying to incorporate his love of trucks I was determined to find green and yellow "john deere" tractor pinata. Who knew that finding the perfect pinata would become such a task. I finally found one and Gavin loved it.




It was so nice to be surrounded by family and friends on a very special day. Gavin is so lucky to have so many people that love him. He has THREE great grandmas and TWO great grandpas. Can you believe that? He also has two grandpas, and three grandmas. He is definitely going to look back on these pictures and realize just how lucky he is.







Gavin had a blast and the party was a success. It took a lot of work and tons of help but in the end it was all worth it. I am already planning next year's party ;)