It’s been 7 years since I have received the very best gift in my life, my daughter Anika, who celebrated her 7th birthday last 7th of August 2016. Time flies really fast and it’s been really a pleasure to see my daughter grow into a lovely and smart kid. She taught me how to love unconditionally and make me experience how it feels to be a parent.

Yes, the journey to parenthood is not always smooth-sailing but definitely worth it! In a world filled with uncertainties, it is my daughter who gives me direction, inspiration and the reason to live. Often, I would look at her baby photos and I can’t help but look back in the past and reminisce the moments when she was still a baby. Sometimes, I can’t help but regret being a workaholic back in the days and usually left her in the hands of her nanny and my mother. Now, I want to spend more time with her and always be with her.

Every year, I always like to celebrate my daughter’s special day by throwing a simple party; this is my way to give thanks for the gift of life and for all the blessings we’ve received.

This year, I chose the pretty in pink and purple fairy princess party theme. We decorated the place with pink and purple butterflies, balloons and banners. Thank you to my brothers and my mom’s helpers who helped me in decorating the venue – The Monte Rosa Clubhouse.

I had the prizes placed in white baskets wrapped with pink gift wrapper and pink and purple tulle. Most of the prizes were school supplies like watercolors, pens, glue, headbands, coloring books, pen holders, pencil case, sharpener with eraser, correction tape and stickers.

Instead of piñata, I had seven big balloons placed at the ceiling; they were filled with candies to be popped at the end of the party.

I bought some white mugs and decorated them with ribbons, butterflies and balloons to serve as our centerpiece.

To avoid wearing too many hats at the party which I usually do, I hired a reliable catering service provider to take care of the food. The foods were mostly delicious Filipino main dishes including Crab Omelet, Hototay Soup, Fresh Lumpia, Potato Salad, Fried Chicken, Pork Hamonado, Beef Frita, Roasted Pork, Pork Barbeque, Steamed Fish Fillet, Sweet And Sour Fish Fillet, Spaghetti with White and Red Sauce and Buko Pandan Salad.

Our candy buffet (open for take home) consisted of birthday cake, cupcakes, cake pops, molded butterfly chocolates, marshmallows and blueberry cheesecakes.

As usual, I had fun setting up the candy buffet especially making cake pops and practicing making molded chocolates and yeah I need more practice. Ha ha ha!

Kids enjoyed the parlor games and swimming that came after the party. It rained but the children still enjoyed night swimming in the pools.

Adults, mostly, enjoyed the food. LOL!

I’m happy that my daughter enjoyed her party!

Oh, before I forget, thanks a bunch to my brother and sister-in-law who made the butterfly theme cake and cupcakes.

Anika’s party also served as a reunion of relatives and old friends and ended with loads of fun and smile.

To my little Anika, I wish you the best of health and happiness. I pray that you’ll grow into a good-hearted and god-fearing individual, full of love, kindness and hope. My love for you will be always and forever. I love you more than life!