Recently we had one of those stressful days, one where I asked a question more than once
in my head: 'why am I doing this?'
Throwing a surprise party for an inanimate object for the second time this year is something I never thought I'd be doing. The first was for Terry the turtle (a soft toy), about a month ago. This time it was Pinkie Pie's 5th birthday (not really, just in Sophie's head). I made it very clear that there wouldn't be a third time. I became mega snappy and stressy in the lead up to the big event (even more so than usual, ahem). However, as our family of four played musical chairs (cushions, to be precise) in our lounge I struggled to suppress the giggles at the insanity of it all.
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Sophie's two small Pinkie Pie Ponies |

Last, but by no means least, was the birthday tea. All pink for Pinkie, of course.
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Playing musical cushions; the girls moving super fast! |
I stopped short of buying another Pinata like the one we'd had at Terry's party, but apart from that this was pretty much close on a full blown party, minus the extra guests. Last time, before Terry's party I had had to quietly explain to Sophie that it wasn't possible to invite other children at very short notice to a made-up birthday party. She was disappointed, but luckily took it very well.
Firstly, because if we didn't, the day would be ruined, as Sophie's level of upset is much beyond that I've seen from any other child.
Secondly, I think it helps to let her use her imagination to develop social situations akin to real-life, even if they are somewhat staged.
Finally, and most importantly, it makes Sophie happy. It's worth it all for this smile.