Lizzie Lou Who, is a tad more than Two...

She did it. Despite my pleading, cajoling and begging her to remain little forever, she turned 3. Since my girls have repeatedly pointed out to me the uselessness of my empty threats to cancel their birthdays ("Mom, we can't stop getting bigger"), I decided we might as well celebrate.

Since Graton has planned the last couple of birthdays for Audrey, and will likely continue to do so in the foreseeable future (There are rumors of a "Car Talk" or "Jr. Ranger" birthday slated for next year), I decided to pull out all the stops and do a real "girlie" birthday party for Lizzie.

Since Alyssa loves to dress up more than anything in the world, a "dress up" party seemed like the perfect theme.

First the girls decorated wands and crowns. We were so glad our friends the Lambs and Pococks were able to join in the festivities!

Then we played "Freeze Dance," "London Bridges" etc.. with our dress ups on.

By then Graton had finished barbecuing and served up a delicious lunch.

Finally, our little princess blew out her candles.

It was a lovely party: good friends, good food and plenty of pink!

We're sure grateful for our sweet Alyssa and the joy she's brought us for three wonderful years!