We had a very lovely birthday dinner for Leina on Sunday night.  It was all the family and Kat & Josh (’cause, you know, they’re pretty much family too after this long!)  Leina had a blast running around the backyard with the cousins and Kevin (’cause, you know, Kevin is really just a kid at heart too.)  This was the first year she wasn’t totally overwhelmed by her party.  In the past, we’ve tried having it in the afternoon which runs into her nap time so by the time the cake and present roll around she is done, dead done.  This year, we tried an evening party.  Instead of afternoon crankiness, we had happiness!  How wonderful is that?

As for presents, Leina made out!  She got some soft and lovable animals, my little pony figures, books, outfits, pop beads and games.  But my own personal favorite gift?  The easy bake oven.  Yup.  That’s right.  Not only the oven but the cake decorating kit, sprinkles, and cake mixes.  I can hardly contain myself!  Baking by light bulb?  That’s my idea of a good time.  I never had an easy bake as a kid but I secretly wanted one.  Now it’s my chance to bake all those tiny cakes and cookies.  Leina is a bit unsure about the whole thing but she’s willing to try anything that involves sprinkles and frosting.  She is 5 after all.  So tomorrow we’ll fire up the easy bake and get a-mixing.  Yes!  Watch out Betty Crocker, here we come!