My daughter absolutely adores ducks.  Rubber ducks, stuffed ducks, real ducks; she doesn't discriminate.  Her first words other than the typical "mama", "dada", and "baba" were "dog" and "duck".  They came pretty much at the same time so it is hard to say which was first.  If you come to our house you will find rubber ducks all over the place.  Surfer ducks, pirate ducks, fighter pilot ducks, you name it - we have it.  Never much interested in a lovie, Kate has always enjoyed carrying around her duckies.  They make her happy so I'm happy.

Right before John left I asked him about her 2nd birthday party.  I was thinking of doing a ladybug theme because her nickname is "Katie-bug".  He immediately said that no, her party should definitely be a duck theme.  I will admit that in my mind, ladybug decor seemed much cuter than duck decor.  Ducks scream baby shower to me (and not even a very chic baby shower).  But he was right, and so the duck planning began.

Yesterday the duck party came to fruition.  I tried to keep it simple since John is away and I only have so much energy to plan and execute parties.  I ordered some food, my friend made Kate a cake, and I rented a local park pavilion next to a playground.  I invited some close friends and family.  We had great weather and a fun, casual, relaxing afternoon.