B Family Travels: Annie's 4th Birthday

Just wanted to post a few pictures from Annie's 4th birthday. It's hard to believe how time has flown since her 3rd birthday, when we were still waiting to find out if we would be moving to Tokyo.

Unfortunately Joe's travel schedule has been crazy these past few weeks, so Annie's small birthday get together with friends had to be postponed. Joe did fly all the way back to Tokyo from Orlando to be here for Annie's birthday even though it meant he would be going right back to the airport to fly to Los Angeles a few days later.

I'd say this was the first birthday Annie was really excited about and she talked a lot about turning 4 in the days and weeks leading up to it. On the day of her birthday Joe took off work so we could all (Lizzy included) go into school with her. We spent some time making birthday crowns and then I read a book to the class that Annie brought from home. Annie then got to choose a birthday book for Teacher Cassy to read. Annie really enjoyed being the center of attention and getting to sit up in the front of the class. She also very sweetly included Lizzy by having her sit up in front right next to her. After the stories we all sang Happy Birthday and then Annie's teachers presented her with a birthday certificate. We brought in oatmeal cookies that Annie passed out at snack time.

After the school day was over, we played at home and had a visit from our neighbor and Annie's friend, Mateo, who brought her a small bouquet of flowers and a happy birthday balloon. So sweet! Annie and Lizzy both enjoyed having Joe around to play with while I made Annie's requested dinner: spaghetti and meatballs. She chose funfetti cupcakes for dessert and after cake she opened her presents. We also had to buy some gifts for Lizzy who didn't seem to understand why everything was for Annie. She received some arts and crafts activities, a few clothes, Candy Land and some My Little Ponies (they don't make those like they used to!).

She didn't seem to mind that it was just a small family celebration and we'll see if I end up rescheduling another "party" with a few friends. Maybe one of the last years we can get away with it!