August 2011 - Choo! Choo! Layla's TWO!

For Layla's second birthday, she wanted a train party.  I really didn't want to go with Thomas and Friends, so instead, we used an assortment of train party supplies.  My parents bought Layla a conductor's hat while they were on a cruise and she had a pair of adorable overalls from my good friend, Sara, so she was dressed for the part.  Layla's actual birthday fell on a Friday and her party was Saturday, so we had a whole weekend of celebrating!

I made Layla a cupcake train to eliminate the allergy issue entirely.  Last year, I made Layla her cake for her Monkey themed party, so I'd like to make this a tradition, regardless of whether she outgrows her allergies.  I love making her cakes solely for the reaction that I get from Layla.  She is such a grateful child! We are already talking about a superhero party or a pirate party for her third birthday, so the wheels are turning on what kind of cake to make!

Anyway, Layla's big presents from Mom and Dad was an easel and a sand/water table.  Some of the other gifts that she received included a bike helmet, Thomas and Friends backpack, firetruck lunch bag, bowling set, legos, wooden cup cake kit and lots of clothes.  The hit of the party, however, was the train pinata, filled with dum dum lollipops, train whistles, stickers, high bouncers and other small toys. 

I will never forget the morning after Layla's party when she climbed out of bed, hair disheveled, voice hoarse, asking, "More party?"  Is this a premonition of what's to come in her teenage years?  I won't even go there.  I'll just chalk it up to a successful birthday!

Below is Layla's grand entrance to her party (pre-guests!) and a link to her birthday book. 

Click here to view this photo book larger

Photo books are the perfect gift for any occasion.