Our baby isn't a baby any more!

How did 8 years already pass since she came into our lives? It's gone WAY TOO FAST!

Avery's party was so sweet this year. She had her "girly themed" party. Last year and this year we have done a "mock slumber party". The girls come in their PJs and we do fun things like we'd do at a slumber party but it's a "NOT SO" SLEEP OVER (as I call it).
Last year and this year I put my hair skills to work and did hair. It's like a mini Libby Lu in our basement. The girls got their hair done, did crafts, made necklaces and bracelets. GIRLS JUST WANTA HAVE FUN.... and we did!

OUR GIRLS. LOVE THOSE A TEAM GIRLS!
Here is everyone after their "up-dos".

Ted is leading them through the pinata. It was a Hannah Montana Guitar.

Daddy is always so funny... I love this picture of Avery laughing at him (below).

This year Avery is in school (co-op) so she has a class full (well just 7 total) of little girls. It was so fun to meet them and get to put faces with the names I always hear about.

Avery had the cutest cake. Again, thanks to Granny Charlotte who buys the cakes for our kids. It is SUCH a blessing and always fun to see what they look like. This one had all "girly" stuff on it. It was perfect!

Avery received so many fun gifts! Our craft closet is STOCKED!

Avery...

Where do we begin? You are DELIGHTFUL. We are so proud of who you are becoming. Here are 8 things your dad and I love about you..

1. Your servants heart. You truly do love to serve (you got that from your dad!)

2. The love you have for others... It amazes us how things touch you deeply. You have such a compassionate heart and it is beautiful.

3. YOUR FAITH. It amazes us that you ask such deep questions at such a young age. We can not wait to see what the LORD has for you! You are always quick to pray about a situation. What a gift the LORD has given you.

4. Your creativity. We love to see what you will create next!

5. Your love for adventure. Your dad delighted in reading Narnia to you and I delighted in hearing the gasps and sounds you would make as he read it.

6. You are such a nurturer. We enjoy watching the LOVE you have for your brothers and sister and what care you give to each of them.

7. Your love for detail. When a story is told... you want ALL the details ... and as your mom, I LOVE THAT! It's such a sweet, genuine curiosity.

8. Your love for singing. We always know if there is music on... YOU ARE SINGING! And the best part is the performance that goes with it!

We adore you!

Love,

Mom and Dad