Anna's Butterfly Ball

When we were living in England, Doug and I had a favorite little out of the way antique store where we bought several fabulous books. One of my favorites was a small book called The Butterfly's Ball and The Grasshopper's Feast written by a Mr.  Roscoe.  I have loved the story and the illustrations for years now and thought it would be the perfect theme for Anna's 9th birthday party.  I meant to do so much more but just ran out of time.  I had a ton of help from Doug, my mom and stepdad, and our friend Amanda.  Anna had a great time at her ball and we loved celebrating her special day with friends and family.
(Following excerpts are from the story...)

Come take up your Hats and away let us haste

To the Butterfly's Ball, and the Grasshopper's Feast.

The Trumpeter, Gad-fly, has summon'd the Crew,

And the Revels are now only waiting for you.

So said little Robert, and pacing along,

His merry Companions came forth in a Throng.

And on the smooth Grass, by the side of a Wood,

Beneath a broad Oak that for Ages had stood,

Saw the Children of Earth, and the Tenants of Air,

For an Evening's Amusement together repair...

And there came the Beetle, so blind and so black,

Who carried the Emmet, his Friend, on his Back.

And there was the Gnat and the Dragon-fly too,

With all their Relations, Green, Orange, and Blue.

And there came the Moth, with his Plumage of Down,

And the Hornet in Jacket of Yellow and Brown;

A Mushroom their Table, and on it was laid

A Water-dock Leaf, which a Table-cloth made.

The Viands were various, to each of their Taste,

And the Bee brough her Honey to crown the Repast...

Then as Evening gave Way to the Shadows of Night,

Their Watchman, the Glow-worm, came out with a Light.

Then Home let us hasten, while yet we can see,

For no Watchman is waiting for you and for me.

So said little Robert, and pacing along,

His merry Companions returned in a Throng.

So happy to have had my mom and step-dad in town for the celebration!  Happy Birthday to our sweet Anna!  We love you!