First of all, I have to say that no pictures were taken during the party. I invited a monkey-load of kids, and I didn't have time to take pictures, and no one else thought of it. Rosie took some of the before, and I took one or two after, so that will have to make up for it.
Bowden is lying on one of the two crocodiles I bought to wrestle with, the party being a reptile hunting party.
He wore his reptile hunting vest, and a straw pith helmet most of the time. The crocodiles were mercilessly pounded until they had huge holes and deflated. Poor crocodiles. Selah and Lucy and Bowden enjoyed lounging before the party started.
Princess Lucy in her castle.

I have decided that the parties I have from here on out will consist mostly of cardboard houses. The castle survived, being occupied mostly by princesses, but the reptile hunter headquarters?
It will live forever in our hearts.
I had princess dresses to wear, and the tea set from Grandma Tate last year ready to use.
The aftermath. Too many gifts, but not too many guests. It was insanity that lasted only three hours, but everyone got along and enjoyed themselves.
The chickens are pecking their way through the pile of gifts, excited about each one they find. I am just glad that all birthday parties are over for the year...

...but maybe next year, superheroes?