Tiffany Olsen Photography

Lola turned two in April, but we purposely waited until last weekend to have a party to celebrate, until all of the adults in our families were fully vaccinated. I’m glad we did, as it was a beautiful 80 degree day and we were able to soak up the sun while all being together again- something we hadn’t done for about a year. Not only that, but the apple blossoms were in full bloom on the trees on our berm for only that day, which fit perfectly with our theme of an Elmo Garden Party.

This winter, Elmo became Lola’s favorite (by the time of the party, he had been replaced by the crew from Frozen, although she’s thankfully still a fan), so when it started to look like vaccines would be available by spring, I began thinking about having a party. Daydreams of warm weather, flowers, being together, and celebrating our little Lola gave me something to look forward to while we were stuck at home.

I got my craft on in the days leading up to the party, working here and there when I’d find a few minutes, to make the little Elmos, the Pin-the-nose-on-the-Elmo, the balloon garlands, and the fringe wall, which I made out of plastic table cloths. I love this kind of stuff. It’s mindfulness at its best. Keeping my hands busy and focusing on a project that produces an end result is incredibly calming for me and I love when it all comes together.

I kept the food easy with fresh fruit, caesar salad, pink lemonade with fresh citrus fruits, turkey and havarti sliders, and little bags of chips. Grandma Vicki of course brought cupcakes and I ordered beautiful sugar cookies from the ridiculously talented Sweet Q’s Cookie Co. To complete the garden party theme, I got some fresh flowers from the grocery store in the colors closest to the theme and made arrangements in several sizes.

To say that the day was special is an understatement. Complete with games and playing in the sun, it felt so good to all be together again. My only regret is that once the party started and we were hanging out I didn’t stop and make sure that we got photos of Lola with all of the family and one of just the three of us (or four with Finn, but his cooperation is often limited). I’m glad I at least got a few of her enjoying her cookies, opening some gifts, splashing around in the sprinkler and pool, playing Pin-the-nose-on-the-Elmo and running around with her cousins.