Best Birthday Ever

 Dear Ramona,
    I have known you for your entire life. Although you are still very young, it feels like we have been through so much together. During the time that I have known you, we have experienced multiple "ends-of-the world," as well as several "best days ever." Your sixth birthday had a little bit of both, but hopefully it was overall a good day for you.
    Your party had a butterfly theme, and you wanted to dress up as a butterfly by wearing all black and putting on your yellow sparkly wings. Mika picked out an all-black outfit, too.

As we were taking some pictures before the party, Paula was very eager to strike a pose alongside you, pajamas and all.

Daddy picked up a balloon for you from the party store. Monster High, as requested.

 As guests arrived, they got busy decorating their party bags and making a butterfly fuse bead craft.

 The fuse beads took longer than anticipated, but yours turned out quite lovely.

 Next, everyone took turns pinning the necklace on Barbie.

There was also a butterfly pinata. We went with the pull-string option rather than the bat and blindfold. As fun as it sounds to take turns beating candy out of a paper mache object, taking turns tugging on pretty ribbons seemed more appropriate for this crew.

 Here is the moment the candy came crashing down:

 But wait, there's more sugar to be had: decorating butterfly cookies.

 And eating them.

Finally, face-painting and a Barbie Mariposa movie.

 

After our guests went home, you opened some gifts. Mika gave you a Monster High towel and puzzle.

You gave Mika a big hug.

 Grandma sent a pretty music box. You were beyond thrilled.

Paula was pleased to loot through your various gifts when you weren't looking . . .

. . . while Mika passed out on the couch next to the pile of opened gifts.

But she did wake up in time for birthday cake.

All-in-all, the party and after-party had plenty of "best-day-ever" moments. You immediately got busy with all of your new gifts.

In the days following, we still got to enjoy your flowers from Paca, as well as leftover butterfly cookies.

We also got a package from Jii and Baachan (after it was lost in the mail for about a week).

Ramona, you are such a strong-willed, passionate little girl with a big imagination and big dreams.

You are so fun and so full of faith. Here is to many more "best-days-ever" with you.

Love
Your Mom