Best swim vest ever.

Most people use "floaties," "wings," or "life jackets." Around here - we've discovered the greatness that is "Puddle Jumpers."

It helps her stay in an upright position and floating and still achieve a feeling of independence. And it's super cute!

And even though she's taking swim lessons (her last class was Saturday) Miss M has even MORE confidence in the water thanks to this wonderful invention. Sometimes she likes to wear her puddle jumper - other times she doesn't. {And the best part? She bought this with her birthday money from Great-Grandmother in WV. Thanks so much for the birthday money, GGBK!}

Two

The table decorations and fun cupcakes we made. M had some great party helpers this year - thanks to everyone!

This girl could live on juice - especially if Big Bird is on the box. And no, she's not dressed in only a hawaiian lei. But she REALLY liked wearing several at a time!

Playing a fun beachball game. Yep - we made it up on the fly. One creative family! {And I found the beachballs on sale for 50% off! We already had the large beach towel.}

Opening presents. She was definitely excited about her party moreso this year than last year. She would say "Oh boy! Oh boy!" over and over again. Her voice is the sweetest. :)

Telling her about her presents. She was very excited about all of the gifts and so were her friends! They were all so cute and sweet. {Side note: it appears I am growing a balloon string out of my nose. Hehehehehe!}

We're horrible about remembering to take pictures, and thus - this is probably the only and best picture of momma & M on her birthday. Dang balloon ribbon. {I guess this means I need to hone my Photoshop skills.}

M & her "boyfriend." He was the only guest she cared about being at her party. And she's looking forward to his party, too! They used to go to daycare together and are only a month apart in age. Two little sweeties!

Everyone's favorite gift - M's new play kitchen. The boys were showing her how to use all of her gadgets and knobs. So funny!

{Another side note: Blogger and I are not getting along right now. It's not playing nice with spacing out my pictures the way I would like it to. Grrrrrrr.....}