Happy Birthday McKenzie!

McKenzie turned 3 on Monday and we finally celebrated with friends tonight. I brought cupcakes to her classroom this afternoon, which was fun. And then we had the neighborhood and close friends join us tonight for another celebration. McKenzie had the best time! I think all the children did, but McKenzie was in her element. She has been looking forward to this celebration for over a month!

I have to say how proud I am of McKenzie. She has changed so much in the last year. She has changed physically (taller, thinner) and truly come out of her shell. We still see glimpses of the shell when she is nervous or afraid, but for the most part she is an outgoing, loving, sweet little girl. This is especially true at home, where she clearly feels the most comfortable. I cannot believe God has brought this bright light into my life. I love her so much and cannot imagine my life without her for even a minute.

Now, on to the pictures. Here are my girls waiting for the guests to arrive.



It was nearly impossible for McKenzie to greet people without ripping open the gifts in their hands. When it finally was time to open gifts, we discovered a few had already been "examined". She was so excited!

Here she is opening books from Uncle Carl and Aunt Colleen. Huge hit!



Nanny sent a beautiful princess dress that we love and a matching tierra.



Becki and Becca gave her a beautiful dress and matching tights that will be perfect for church. Thank you!!



Lucy from next door gave McKenzie the first of three princess costumes. I believe McKenzie is now sleeping in this one as I type :) Thank you Lucy, Christi and Danielle!



Karen and Lisa headed North to share in the celebration. We definitely appreciate their drive! They brought McKenzie the biggest piggy bank I have ever seen and she loves it! Karen even had money ready to deposit! How smart! Thank you Karen and Lisa!




Morgan was well loved during the party. We were shocked she could fall asleep on top of Lisa with the roar of all the kids! Danielle is so good with kids, all kids, and she is no different with Morgan. The first time we ever met Danielle and Christi they didn't even have kids yet and we were like, "Who is that nut on top of the monkey bars with the kids?" Now she and Christi are the mothers of 4!!



And finally, the moment we have all waited for ... the song. You know the one.

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The cake turned out beautifully, though I did have seconds thoughts at the check out counter when I looked down at the cake with new eyes. Maybe having a giant rat put on the cake wasn't the best idea after all. Luckily, no one minded and McKenzie was able to share her favorite movie with her friends. And used Aunt Pat's "Special Day" plate to serve the cupcakes. Thanks Aunt Pat!



We were so glad Aunt Becky Bumpass was able to join us! She gives the best hugs!



And now all is quiet. McKenzie is sound asleep upstairs dressed in a beautiful princess gown. I was able to wrestle the tierra off her head in order to lay on the pillow. Madison reluctantly went to bed a while later. Tomorrow night she meets her kindergarten teacher for the first time, so it will be a big day. Morgan had a fabulous bottle and fell asleep in Mama's arms. The cake has been put away. The dishes are loaded in the dishwasher, the wrapping paper has been thrown out and the tissue paper is folded. And I sit here watching the Olympics and thinking how truly blessed I am. For someone who never thought she would be a mother, I marvel at how much my life has changed. Yes, my house is a zoo most of the time, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Good night!