This birthday we spent a little time looking back. Recently Brenna has enjoyed looking through her baby pictures and videos and we've enjoyed telling her the stories of her early years that she's doesn't always remember. It's amazing what this little girl can do. In these first eight years she's moved twice, relocated to another country, attended four different schools, studied three different languages, and logged more flight time than any other kid her age I know. And through it all she still radiates pure joy! People, places, and things; she find excitement and adventure in it all. God knew her path and He blessed her with this amazing personality that has driven her through all these life changes. I try to teach her so much stuff, but its nothing compared to what she's teaching me. The greatest lesson so far being that there's happiness everywhere. You just have to find it, and if you look hard enough, you will. She's beautiful, smart, active, and fearless. It's a scary combination. She does everything with determination, especially her sports. She's a terrible loser, especially stubborn, and likes to be right. All around, she keeps us on our toes and in the middle of some "The lesson to be learned is...." situation, either for her or us. We love her beyond measure and pray for her constantly.
This year for her birthday, Brenna decided to keep things small. Rather than a large party with all her school and neighborhood friends, she decided to have a slumber party with just a few of her favorite girl friends. I thought it was a great idea! A small group at home meant they could enjoy the day longer and have more fun activities verses a quick party with tons of kids at another location. After she decided on the slumber party went started to discuss the theme. Each year Brenna picks her party theme based on her current likings. She said she wanted something fun, colorful, and girly, which quickly materialized into a butterfly theme.
She had a long list of activities that she wanted to do; scavenger hunt, piñata, slip-n-slide, hot tub, painting, fort building, movies with popcorn, mani/pedi. I did my best to accommodate all her requests, but even I had to draw the line at a candy themed game of hide and seek. I was afraid it would attract too many bugs!
Brenna carefully selected a cute butterfly background for her invitation. She and I worked together to decorate the house for the party. I found some fun headbands, pajamas, and crafts that went perfectly with our butterfly theme. She also picked out a cute butterfly outfit for her party dress.
