Birthday Wrap-Up

On the morning of Avery's birthday, she was greeted with a balloon bouquet from her sister, the birthday banner and a small present from us.  She was SOOO excited the day had finally arrived!

 She wanted to get right to work on it...

 Once Nana and Grandpa John were up and about, we headed to breakfast, per Avery's request.

 When we got home, we walked up the street to supervise all the construction happening.

 Avery had me wear pearls all day in honor of her birthday.  I felt pretty and think I'll wear them "just because" more often.  Life is too short not to. :)

 Avery and I spent much of the afternoon on her new cross-stitch project, then we went to Shaun's softball game.  After, the five of us went out to dinner and the waitstaff sang to her.

 Then it was off to the store so she could pick out her birthday present...a new bike!  We don't traditionally buy our kids presents, but the timing of needing a new bike was convenient.

 We rarely go shopping so the kids were acting like...well, kids in a toy store. :)

She said she had a really special day and felt much older.  Older even than six.  More like...seven!  Aiden said Happy Birbay, Avery! to her about 25 times during the day.  It was so heart-felt and so sweet.

On Saturday evening, Trot ate much of the cake that I'd baked, so we quickly went to plan B, which worked out well, because Avery ended up doing most of the decorating and really enjoyed it.

 Then we were off the Auntie Sarah's house for a family picnic.  The weather was picture perfect and they have a beautiful backyard and deck.  We sat around and caught up and did lots of laughing, too. Avery actually took several of these.

 She definitely took this one.  I frequently see it written all over Amanda's face that she would like to do this to me, but we have a very clear rule against it.

 Baseball games are a good time for snoozing on the couch.

The final masterpiece, with a sneak taste from the little sister.

All the cousins (so far ;)) on Shaun's side.