Another Teenager in the House

As of yesterday, at 3:51 p.m., my next-to-youngest is officially a teen. Emily and five of her friends celebrated with a sleepover, involving very little sleep, but lots of singing, eating, Guitar Hero, and just general goofing around. She had probably the least attractive birthday cake I've ever made -- a Chocolate-Covered OREO Cookie Cake -- but was it ever tasty!


The day was made extra-special by her big sister and the small-ensemble high school choir, who visited Emily's middle school choir class and surprised her with these gorgeous roses. The high school choir has been rehearsing a song for the upcoming holiday concert with the middle school choir, so Emily didn't suspect a thing when they showed up. But when they started singing "happy birthday" and each handing her a rose, she was definitely surprised. What a great memory for her... I'm so happy that after years of sibling rivalry, my girls are growing so close.



And with this being the second consecutive year of Emily choosing a Painted Poinsettia for her birthday table, I guess we've started a new tradition. The girls love getting flowers on their birthdays...



All in all, a great birthday! And just busy enough to keep this sentimental mama from going to mush over the thought of her youngest daughter growing up... so fast.

At our house, the passing of Emily's birthday is the official start of the Christmas season. Today we woke up to the beginnings of our first big snow of the winter - a fitting way to end the birthday festivities and welcome in the Christmas spirit.