Five & Fabulous

Last Thursday, June 16th, Siella London Harbor turned five years old! Her day started with special birthday pancakes, topped with whipped cream and sprinkles. It was the first year that she was in school for the big day, so I brought in cupcakes for her class, that was followed by a family night out for dinner, and a little play time on the new swing exhibit in our neighborhood. Having gone through it with Ryder, I’ve come to notice that once the five year mark hits, it’s seems like time starts to move even quicker, as if we pressed the fast forward button.

For last years’ birthday, Siella was introduced to the world of American Girl. Jason and I brought her to store, where she chose whichever girl she wanted. To our surprise, it was a Bitty Baby, whom she named Heart Star. She names most of her things, and sometimes the names change, but not this one. To this day, she still plays and cares for this little baby, as if she is a member of the family. In fact, she’s come everywhere with us. When it came time to plan out the proper present for this year, I knew we couldn’t top last year, so I decided to start a new tradition and take her back to the American Girl store; only this time, we enjoyed brunch in their cafe, before picking up a few more accessories for Heart Star. She knew that she wanted the diaper bag set, which comes with cute little accessories like extra cloth diapers, bottles, and play baby wipes. So adorable. Just another way to treat her dolly like a real little baby.

After our lovely lunch, we headed home to prepare for her actual birthday party, taking place the following day. We kept the get together small, only inviting a few kids from school and some close friends, in the backyard area of our building. I wasn’t sure what kind of activity to keep the kids occupied for two hours, so I called Curated Care for some help. I discovered the company, when I was planning a Pop Up Shop event with a few designers. They came in to perform activities with the children, while the parents browsed the racks. For three hours straight, my daughter didn’t even look up, as she was so into the fashion type of arts and crafts they were doing. All of the attendees raved about Curated Care, so I knew they would be great for a kids birthday party. We went back and forth with ideas on what to do in the backyard, and settled on a fun “non” cooking, cooking class for Siella and her friends.

Curated Care is not only care for your child, but also comes along with enriching activities. They are the first-ever online platform that allows families to connect with Kid Experts based on the activities they’d like their children to experience. Curated Care allows parents to be confident in who they bring into their home, while providing artists, performers, and educators the opportunity to share their talents with children. It’s absolutely a brilliant concept.

Two girls arrived at the party complete with every supply needed for the activities, which put me at ease, because it was one less thing to think about. They prepared three different desserts that the kids were able to eat at the end, or shall a say during the process. There were American flag graham cracker cakes, chocolate dipped banana bon bons, and watermelon flowers. I am not kidding you; for two hours straight, the kids were emerged in crafting, and the experts from Curated Care were beyond wonderful.

I already have other summer plans and playdates in the works, that I plan to use Curated Care for. The kids are excited for the activities, and all the grown ups will have some time to relax, and enjoy our time together.

Overall, her birthday was a huge success. I am so proud of the young little lady my Siella is growing into. She is the most kind, gentle hearted, smart, funny little human. Now, if I coulcd only freeze tim. I am so loving this age with her, as she lights up every day with something new and special.