Pinkalicious delicious birthday party

Every year, I promise to slow down during December. Everybody does, right?

It never fails, I am in over my head. Here, my "craziness" starts with Avery's "pinkalicious" birthday.

We had such a fun time at the dance studio. Her instructor ran the show. I loved it, especially since I had had just painted and redecorated her room all day. I was exhausted. First, they danced. She taught the girls a dance to Miley Cyrus. Ah, wish you could see them get their groove on. Precious. Then she played group games with the kids. Musical chairs etc. They giggled till they fell over. Next up, pizza, cupcakes, and presents. The cupcakes were "pinkalicious" delicious. And, darn cute too (I had them made with edible glitter covering the top.) Avery is a wonderful hostess....she was sincerely thankful for each gift and friend.

After the structure and control we let the kids run wild through the studio in their stocking feet. This was their favorite part of the night. Remember that for future parties. No matter all your planning, attention to detail, creative games....the kids will always love the few minutes of unstructured time better than the rest. Ha. And, since that wild time was the end at the end of the party, when the parents came to pick up their child...no one wanted to leave. Lots of pouting kids walking out the door. I'm glad they all had such a good time. And, I was extra glad to have no clean up!

Thanks to Fluidity dance, this was a very easy and totally fun party.

It must of been Thanksgiving

This is what I saw.

Family time. Lots of family time. Playing. Singing. Sleeping. Games. Movies. Food. More food. Children being grateful. We celebrated the holiday exactly as I had planned.

Just being together and enjoying the company. Thanks to Gigi and Papa for celebrating with us
I consider myself blessed. I am purely, absolutely and totally grateful for my life. My husband, my love, is my best friend. I am lucky. My family is my life. My children bring me more joy. They smile, hug, and laugh everyday. Happy. The gospel of Jesus Christ is my stability and strength. Blessed.

But, it's the little things" in my life which bring me the most happiness this Thanksgiving.

Ellie's growing confidence, the kindness of Zach's friend-Ian, the dramatic side of Avery, Zach's love of cologne and clothes, his tutor, Avery's obedience, Ellie's nurturing nature, Avery's conversations Zach's innocence. a new 'chore' chart, reading recovery program, FHE and participation from everyone, emails from Jeff, Little Sally Walker (because its sure to get everyone laughing) morning prayers and routine, this school year, Jeff's patience, Ellie's grades, a budget, Zach's much improved handwriting, Avery reading, my quiet time in the a.m, even when Zach turns it into "our" quiet time. A forgiving and understanding husband, Zach's aide: Ms Flower, Jeff's phone calls during the day"just to say Hi", having my prayers answered, volunteering in Eby's and Devoe's classroom each week, plans for a big vacation this year, Jeff's job, preparing for middle school, friends, dinner together, no snow in November, my soon to be new sister in law; Kat, family sing-a-longs, and snuggling on a lazy Saturday morning.

A big, happy birthday wish to my mom and Avery. I'm glad we had a double celebration for two of my favorite people.