Birthday Girl

Emily had a fun birthday. On Thursday she woke up to her favorite breakfast, pancakes, and was surprised to find the van decorated for her birthday. I brought cookies to her class, volunteered and stayed for recess. She thought that was fun and held my hand and showed me off to everyone. I reminded myself to enjoy it because I am sure my presence at school will only be cool so much longer. I didn't take many photos on Thursday, I forgot my camera and my phone.

After swim team on Thursday we gave Emily a new bike! She didn't hold still long enough for me to get a photo, but this is it:

Avery gave her a bell to go with it, and she was more excited about the bell than the bike. She has outgrown her bike with training wheels, so she really needs a new bike, but she doesn't ride yet, so she's nervous. She has been willing to practice a little with help, so we'll see if she can get it soon.

After dinner and presents we called her birth mom to say hello. She loves talking to her and told her all about her big day. She forgot to mention the new, expensive bike, but told her all about mom staying for recess. A good reminder about what is important.

Speaking with her birth mom on the phone. She wasn't sure how to talk on the phone when it's not on speaker and kept looking at the screen. So funny.

When it started getting late Emily and I baked the sugar cookies I had mixed earlier and decorated them for a few of our neighbors. We had been "boo-ed" by some friends and needed to pass on the fun. Emily loved staying up late and going out in the dark! She was so happy. The sugar high help, I'm sure.

 

Emily's birthday party was on Saturday at the local soccer park. I chose it because it is affordable and because I felt guilty for not signing Emily up for soccer this fall. A lot of her friends played in the Poway Soccer league, but it is so hot here in August and September that I thought swim team sounded like a better choice. It was a little hot for her party, but the kids didn't complain too much and I think they all had fun.

Expert frosting tester

I think I was more excited about the soccer band aids than the kids. Oh well.

 

loved her mini cake

The cupcakes were a big hit! Cream cheese frosting with my new grass tip. Just a regular white cake mix (Emily's request). The soccer balls are rings.

Back row: Lauren, Nicole, Makena, coach.
Front row: Elaine, Lilia, Daija, Emily, Sydney, Rachel, Nina, Mallory, Avery.

Who wants pizza?

The staff at the soccer park was great! Love the sign they made.
 

Soccer plates, straws and napkins.

The other moms were so impressed when Emily read all of her own birthday cards.
She used very good manners and opened all the cards first and read each one out loud.

She got some great stuff, including her favorite a Lalaloopsie from Sydney!
Her other favorite was a treasure box that she got to paint herself from Nina.