Robyn enjoyed her party two weeks ago. She'd decided she wanted an Arty Party, so that's what we had. Since she usually has a non-stop stream of party ideas from around, oh, August until June the 3rd, I've taken the approach of making the specifics of her parties a surprise. That way I actually get to settle on some things instead of following her chopping and changing her mind.

My mom secured the girls in the playroom while the rest of us were setting things up. Here's the Arty Party Table.



Robyn ran whooping around the garden when she saw the jungle gym. At the edge of the picture is Lauren sneaking around with her friend Megan.



While we're at it, here's another cute one of Lauren and Megan.



Here they all are, with the party underway, painting the wooden boxes and cutouts. They really enjoyed this. It was very hot in the glaring sun though. Peter and his sister Jean (thanks Jean!) ended up holding beach umbrellas over the table to shield the kids from the sun. Must try to organise one of those huge permanent umbrella thingies in time for Lauren's party. We almost bought one about a year ago. Well-meaning we are. Decisive and speedy we are not.



Then it was time to tackle the jungle gym. Most of the kids really got into it, though in hindsight a slightly shorter, less tangly maze would have done too!







Then it was time for them to enjoy their loot.









And then it was cake time ...



... and an emotional moment for Robyn.



And the last bit of the party was to finish off the boxes (glue on the cutouts) ...



... and admire the results.





And then everyone went home, and Robyn FINALLY got to open her presents ...



(Daniel loved the phone)



... and I FINALLY got to put my feet up and have a cup of tea.