Catherine turns 7...and some Elise

Birthday cereal and lots of balloons!

Since her birthday was on a Sunday we had to do the partying after church. I did let her open one gift before: matching cactus dresses for her and Elise, plus a matching cactus skirt for me. Thanks for the idea, Kenna! Catherine has literally worn the dress every day since (including for PE).  

Matching cactus girls.

And Aaron.

For her "party" this year Catherine opted to have Emma Olivera over for a playdate/lateover/movie and candy party on Friday. It was very low key, but I think they both had a great time! 

The "cake and ice cream" party was after church with the Knoxes and Oliveras. We spent our time after church making the three different types of cupcakes Catherine requested for her "cake" this year:

Mango coconut (Elise's choice because I wanted them), cookies & cream, and smores: 

Elise's cake: 

Catherine's cake: 

Two birthday girls ready for the singing: 

Catherine blows out candles: 

Elise...tries really hard: 

Seth "helped" by blowing them out for her without asking...

The next night we video called Grandma & Grandpa Mikesell to open their gifts: 

Most of the video chatting consists of the kids fighting over who gets to hold the iPad.

Both girls were greatly spoiled with books, clothes and toys. Elise was so happy that she insisted on going to bed in her new ladybug jammies, ladybug dress and with her new kitties. Happy birthdays, my sweet girls!