Happy 7th Birthday!!

Although Simone doesn't officially turn 7 until tomorrow, yesterday we celebrated her birthday with friends at a party of her design.  Simone surprised us this year in coming up with a very creative theme all by herself, and it was lots of fun putting it together. So for everyone who was with us only in thought and spirit,  here's the party recap...

The invitations.

The tea party room.

The last photo as the door bell rang with the first guest arriving.

After tea was served, the girls enjoyed a lunch of yakitori and chicken teriyaki, complete with kid's chopsticks.  Very fun! and every last noodle was gone!

The tea party table.

The birthday girl's place setting.

Aside from the tea party and lunch, the main party activity was building candy sushi.    We set up the kitchen table as a sushi building station.  And

My sample tray.

Each little girl build their own container of sushi to bring home as a party treat.

After a couple of party games and some play time, we had cake and mochi (Japanese-style ice cream).

 And my personal favorite part -- Kokeshi doll cake pops.

Totally adorable... and delicious!

Simone was so sad to have the party end, but opening her gifts cheered her up pretty quickly.  She really loved her party and told us many times that it was her favorite one so far.

It was so satisfying to watch her have such a good time with her friends celebrating her birthday.  We just can't believe how fast each birthday comes and goes as the years fly by.  She's been our greatest blessing for the last 7 years and we cherish every second we get to see her smile.  

We love you Simone!!