“I’m a Princess”

“I’m a Princess” Rory says almost every morning when I get her dressed. It might be the dress or skirt I put her in or it might be that this little girl has taken on the mentality many of us do during our childhood – a place of importance. Where does that innate confidence come from so early (and sadly eludes us at many points throughout life)?

We all want to be valued and accepted. We all want to know we are loved and told we are beautiful (ok, boys – strong, handsome…).

  

Birthdays are especially fitting to carry on this campaign and Rory’s second birthday delivered just that! With less than a $75 dollar budget and a perfectly sunny morning at the park the scene was set. The night before Ryder and I cut little marshmallows in half to effortlessly create piggy faces on chocolate-chocolate cupcakes. He diligently shoved m&ms into the icing surfaces bringing them alive with color. Little picnic baskets were stuffed with goldfish crackers, popcorn, juice boxes, and little note pad favors. Veggie and fruit trays were paired with chip baskets and other refreshments.

Less than a half hour before the party we mounted our bike and buggy to get to the park. It was time to party! Bubbles were blown, songs were sang, slides were slid, bars were climbed. The magic was there through friends, family, and excited cousins joining the fun.

Here’s to a sweet gal with spunk. Who hasn’t met a food she doesn’t like. Greets all with a cheerful hello. A passionate pig lover. A sneaky toy stealer (just to see how grumpy Ryder will get). A super colorer, focused painter, mud lover, iPad hoverer, self-proclaimed alphabet vocalist, book “reader”, ultimate Daddy cuddler, boo-boo concerner, and sweetest, most loyal pal you will ever know. May you always feel like the princess you are. That you continue to be gracious and caring. Courageous and joyful. Strong and compassionate. Happy second birthday Rory-girl! We love you “this much”.

Thank you to Chris and Paulette for catching some shots for me while I partied with the birthday girl!