It happened on the 9th, which happened to be the Monday of Spring Break. So, Saturday before that, Laurent came over and did Ellie’s nails. They were so fancy and it took a lonnnnng time – extremely detailed and very impressive! And that was the beginning of the festivities.
Now, Ellie is always peevish about her birthday inevitably falling during break when “all” her friends are off doing things with their families. This year, however, she had made plans with a few of them, and Monday afternoon they all met up at Castles ‘N Coasters for an evening of roller-coastering. It’s a win-win for me – and for Natalie – that she is old enough to go along as the grown-up chaperone nowadays. I can’t manage it physically, and she not only enjoys the outing, but I pay for her ticket! They ended up experiencing a rain delay for part of their time, as everyone was called off the equipment until it let up, so they called and asked for an extension of their time, which of course was quite reasonable. They ended up thoroughly enjoying themselves despite the wet.
The rest of the week was all abut chillaxing and re-watching NCIS from the beginning. They all love that show just as much the second time around!
The weekend rolled around and with it Laurent showed up to give Ellie the rest of her birthday present – a trip to ULTA and then the Ranch Market where she got to pick out her birthday cake. They do make the prettiest fruit-topped cakes!
Sunday after mass we picked up Ana and cousin Noel, and headed over to Grandma’s. Ellie’s menu of choice was the old sleepover standby: Octopus, Mac-N-Cheese, Cheesy Corn, and Strawberry Whip Cream Jell-O! A kid friendly hit for the ages.
After lunch and birthday cake, Ruben and Noel went outside to do giant bubbles on the patio. I got a couple of pix.
Wonderful celebration, as always. We are blessed with so much family time!
I would like to add a special request if I may. In your kindness, please add Ana to your prayers. She is facing a serious health challenge, and we are asking for miraculous healing, and that she might be able to rest upon the strength and loving care of our Lord throughout the trials ahead. Please also pray for the kids, that they feel the comfort of the Holy Spirit and that they might grow in their trust of their Heavenly Father. Thank you in advance for your prayers!
