Written by Sharon Fish (Donell's Godmother)
Saturday 24th February
Saturday 24th February 2007 was a very special day. All roads lead to The Irish Centre in Digbeth and the kick off time was 2.00pm. Donell's 5th Birthday Party was finally here after days and weeks of planning. The Birthday Boy arrived himself full of fun and smiles dressed every bit like the superhero as Superman with the words "Birthday Boy" emblazoned on his cape, with a lovely little fairy at this side otherwise known as baby sister Keira.
Children poured in the door holding presents, balloons and full of smiles and laughter. We had loads of beautiful princesses, a couple more superheros, bob the builder, 2 very cute fireman and a clown to name but a few of the creations thought up by inventive parents for Donells friends and family. Donell was definitely the host with the most, running around thanking everyone for his presents and generally having a really good time.
Teachers from Donells school were so helpful in getting some organisation to the crowd and were instrumental in>the running of pass the parcel, pin the tail on the donkey and musical statues. Winners enjoyed sweets and little toys for their efforts. They were also organising the Pinyana competiton with a donkey and a dog style Pinyana which was attacked with such force that it wasnt long before the bodies of the Pinyana had split and sweets were all over the place. Big thank you guys from Lydia and Chris for everything that you did to make the day so special.
Food played a big part of the day and Lydia and Chris had arranged a fantastic spread with sweets and finger food, some really nice food for the adults (always appreciated as there are only so many flumps and space sweets and flying saucers that we can eat !!!! ) and then the Irish Centre did some burgers and chips which were wolfed down by the children in 2 seconds flat !!!
The highlight of the afternoon was the birthday cakes, yes cakes plural - Donell was very very lucky and had not one but three lovely cakes and we all sang happy birthday to the little man as his cakes were paraded out of the kitchen lead confidently by Mum Lydia followed by one of the teachers and Grandma. This was divided up and everyone got a piece in their goody bag.
First we had the face painter arrive and the queue was instantaneous but everyone got a go and everyone had the face of their choice. Donell was a tiger, as you can see from the pics.
Then the famous Dippy arrived!!! - After half an hour of preparation where everyone was watching as boxes were coming in, red tape was being put on the floor and a man was dressed in a very colourful outfit organised juggling balls, an unicycle and some skittles!!!!!! The kids were intrigued and quickly sat down in front of the red line watching and waiting for the entertainment to start. Adults availed themselves of some seats (its not easy to get up off the floor !!!!) and watched the drama unfold. Dippy the clown amazed everyone with his unicycle riding talents and told stories and was interactive with Karim, Donells older brother and Nigeria, Donells cousin getting involved and winning a little prize each. After the merriment, we had the dancing competition with some interesting moves on the dancefloor to "Show me the Way to Amarillo" and "Pizza Hut" to name but a few.
Fancy Dress competition came next which was very well supported and was a tough decision but someone had to win and the prizes were given out and the winners chosen. Congratulations go to all who made the effort, you all looked wonderful and the face painting made you all look fabulous.
The day was drawing to a close and the next party was eager to get into the room to start their celebrations so we started the clear up operation about 6.15pm. We all said our goodbyes laden down with food (thanks Lydia !!!) and loaded the cars and trapsed off to our respective houses for baths, bed and reflections. All in all a wonderful day and one that we will all remember for a long time to come