Ethan is very science-minded. He
loves is obsessed with anything to do with nature, science, etc. I think I knew he would be our mad scientist when everything became "But, why?" when we answered one of his bazillion questions. No matter. He is who he is and we appreciate every bit of it.
We decided to have his 7th birthday party at the Heard Museum in McKinney. Best. Idea. Ever. We were given a party room, a facilitator, and entrance into the museum for 25 people. First, let me say that our facilitator was phenomenal. She is a mother of two and is back in school to get her degree in education. Her patience made me want to stick her on a pedestal and make her ride home on our dashboard. Total saint. She was very knowledgeable and guided the kids (ages 3-11) while answering their questions.
Ethan got to pick out two animals that he and his friends would get to interact with and learn about. He, of course, picked a bearded dragon aaaaand...a corn snake (Ew.)
After the animal encounter, we took the nature trail around to look at the dinosaurs. Caden had give-up halfway around. I have decided that should we ever have another kid, we're investing in a jogging stroller. No fake.
We came back to the party room and had the kids wash up. I had ordered a tea sandwich tray from Tom Thumb as well as the cake. Another, Best. Idea. Ever. The sandwiches were triangle sized which were perfect for little hands. I had individual bags of chips, juice, and water ready as well. Ethan picked out his own decorations and cake. I dig the cupcake cakes. No cutting, no mess, happy adults, and happy kids. LOVE 'EM!
Ethan received a ton of gifts. We are beyond blessed to have such generous friends and family. Apparently everyone knows E well because his gifts were science-oriented. We ended up sticking around the museum for awhile after the party ended because E and his friends were digging the bug exhibit and Animals of the World exhibit, as well.
Now? I need a few zzz's on the couch and possibly a martini. :)
This is one of the cutest backpacks I've ever seen. Caden loves Yo Gabba Gabba so, this is his gift from "HoHo Claus"- I cannot wait to see his face when he sees it. Mad props to any show that features Jack Black in an orange unitard dancing around. 
Taro Gomi is the bomb! These books have been started but you get to finish the illustrations. I can tell you that I've done something similar with my students and they love it, even at 10 years old. These make excellent travel books especially if you're flying.
I found these on Etsy. Etsy and I have a tumultuous relationship. I love shopping from Etsy but I also can get into a lot of trouble doing so. I find a TON of stuff for the kids, the house, and me in one place. It's like being able to go to Canton in your underwear and without having to worry about the motocart people running you over. This is a sidewalk paint set. These make great party favors OR end of the year gifts for students. I'm ordering these for my students this year. I'd like some for myself. 
How cool is this? This woman on Etsy or "El Diablo" as I like to call it, made these number crayons from recycled crayons.
Williams-Sonoma has this lunch set. It comes with sandwich cutters and a retro tin lunchbox. I want it. Brian wants it. Ethan wants it. You know YOU want it. 
It's a placemat that your kids can decorate to make their own masterpiece. I totally want this!!
Food Face. Kids use their food to complete the face. They have one for boys and another for girls.
