Pony Party

My sweet Maia Lynn turned 7 years old yesterday and this weekend we celebrated by having a Pony Party with her closest friends.

The girls were SO excited. Maia just loves ponies so much! They split up into two groups - one group started riding and the others went to the barn to groom.

Brianna was a groomer with Keira first :) She was so very gentle with the horses and really enjoyed brushing them.

What a nice opportunity for the girls to demonstrate kindness and love to another living thing. Almost a 'thank you' for the ride they would soon take.

They all want to take horseback riding lessons after this!

Maia was lucky enough to get two turns riding because she was the birthday girl. It was such a surprise to see one of our very dear friends daughters working the party that night, Haley. The girls have grown up with Haley and it was so sweet to have her there teaching them how to ride.

It was a true lesson with an instructor in the middle teaching all of the moves and proper way to ride a horse. They even did a very light 'gallop' at the end of the lesson.

I wanted to give Maia a party that was special. That involved nature and something she loves.

We've done regular birthday parties before like bowling, or rollerskating... but this was just so simple and wonderful.

The children loved it more than any other party they've been to.

Keira acquired a new love of horses and REALLY wants lessons.

Maia had special horse hats for each of her friends and a small pony gift instead of goody bags.

The girls enjoyed pizza...

And yummy cake..

Her cake was very special - a HORSE cake, of course!

Happy Birthday, my sweet girl. You are my quiet but passionate child - I love you so much. I admire your ability to take in the world around you.

xoxo