we started esther's fourth birthday party by makling the kids stand in a line as if in detention. we had to assert the ground rules and a little fear never hurt anyone.

There was a bit of a stampede when the Pin The Tail On The Donkey competition opened. (click photo for bigger version - everyone is in motion!)

the excitement got a bit too much for one of the parents

the girls were made to sit in line for afternoon tea. standards couldn't be dropped just because we had friends round.

jane made the cake which took her ages. it was brilliant and a pile of pooh.

the birthday girl with new hat, sunglasses and face tattoo (hopefully not permanent)