An Olympic Event!

 

It was an Olympic Event 8th Birthday Party for Ashley this year!

She planned all of the events for her friends to play. Good thing they were all indoor-friendly, since it was wet and chilly outside. First we had a lego building contest. Alayna won the category for Best Pink Airplane.

 Here are all the big girls. Clarice, Ashley & Elizabeth are the 3 Amigos from 2nd Grade. ;)

 Here are all the contestants with their creations. They really did a great job!

 Grandpa & Pop announce the winners.

 Then, we headed outside for the jump roping contest.

 And, next, the velcro ball bullseye contest. We started with the youngest and worked our way up to the big 8 year olds. Emily's ball got stuck in her hair.  :)

 

Here are all the kids. I can't believe they're all smiling at once!

 Time to blow out the candles!

 Auntie, the Baby Hog. I guess Emily had found someone else at this moment, so Catherine had a chance for a little snuggle.

 All the moms/RCA groupies.

 The dads.

 The Grandma's

 Ooops! We forgot to play Rock 'em, Sock 'em Robots earlier! That completed all the events.

 Next, on to the presents. Ashley especially enjoyed reading all the funny cards. We were all laughing!

 Time to run off the cake before we sent everyone home.

 Vinny displays the best present -- a Jake and the Neverland Pirates DVD! "Now we can watch it at home whenever we want!!!!" he said. (The day after the party, we had a Jake marathon.)

 Now, on to the After-Party. Our family stayed around to have pizza for dinner. Mother & son. ;)

 Aunt Regina & Aunt Mechelle joined in. Regina and Catherine size each other up over yogurt.

 Aunt Mechelle introduces Catherine to the joys of drumming. Catherine banged her heart out on the drum, squealing and flailing her arms around in excitement.

Overall, I think this was one of the best parties we've ever had. Ashley is really getting big and she enjoyed all the activity. We are so grateful for all of our family & friends who could be there to celebrate.

Happy Birthday, Ashley Rose!