As most of you already know, my baby girl turned FOUR this year, which is a pretty tough thing for this softie mommy heart to comprehend! I mean, it seems like just the other day she was babbling away and taking her first steps…right? Although it’s bittersweet that my firstborn is growing up, it is also pretty fun to see her growing before my very eyes into a smart, strong, beautiful, and SUPER CREATIVE girl.

This year, we decided to throw a birthday party for Austyn since she’s got so many wonderful little friends. Although her actual birthday was on the 2nd, we decided to schedule it for late August because…errr…mommy needed the extra time to get things together. (Not going to lie, but summer with two littles around the house has not allowed me to be super productive! SHOCKER.) The party was held at Lifetime Fitness where Dustin and I work out. Austyn is also very familiar with the location because she goes and hangs out in the childcare center whenever we go to exercise, so it just made sense. Naturally, the party theme was Sofia the First and the Floating Palace, as Austyn has been begging for a Sofia party for the past year. I LOVED decorating for the party with teal, purple, and gold colors. I wish that I had taken more photos of the decor, but I was so caught up in the moment that I didn’t really get much of a chance! I guess that’s a good thing!

Austyn and her gal pals spent time playing, talking, eating pizza, and opening gifts. Then, they had some cake and cupcakes provided by Marie of Sweet Luxe, who did an amazing job creating the PERFECT design for Austyn!! The cake was inspired by mermaid scales and Sofia’s amulet while the cupcakes had chocolate seashells on them – such a stylish addition to the party! Check out this gorgeous cake…

The girls were SOOOO excited to go swim – indoors, I might add…so nice to not have to worry about sunscreen! After about 45 minutes, we all peeled the kids away from the water, which is easier said than done, and said our goodbyes with hugs and kisses.

There were so many moments where I wish I could have stopped time. I loved seeing Austyn’s eyes light up the moment she walked into the room and saw her cake, decor, and balloons. It was also just magical watching Austyn playing with her friends and feeling so loved. But the best part was seeing Austyn absolutely speechless when everyone sang “Happy Birthday” to her. That is truly something I will never forget!

I was so happy to be able to celebrate my little girl turning four this year. It makes my heart so happy knowing Austyn has such wonderful memories to cherish forever. Thank you so much for all of her girly friends and their families who came to party, and of course to our family for helping make it all come together!

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AUSTYN!!! You are SOOOO loved!!!