Eleven

After celebrating all weekend, the duo were still ready for more fun when their birthday finallllly arrived on October 3rd. After breakfast, they headed off to school for a long day.  

We met up with them later for lunch.  

We love a good birthday lunch. Everyone tells me all lunch visits cease in middle school; even so, I know they'll come back around when they're older.  

They had a Science Olympiad practice until 4:30pm, and that threatened to cut into their birthday time. Their coach kindly agreed to a "special snack" so I surprised them with cupcakes, chips and Milo's tea. There weren't streamers or anything, and it was after official school hours. Therefore, no one can accuse the event of being a party. ;) 

"Party" or no, they had a great time celebrating with their teammates.  

At home, they requested a favorite for dinner: spaghetti and garlic bread. Naturally, we had more cake and singing.  

William George wanted to buy Grace and Lauren presents with his own money. When I told him we would go one day while they are at dance, he said, "No. Take some money from my wallet and get them something really good. I don't want to ruin the surprise." Although he was being very generous, he did not want the responsibility of keeping a secret.  

He helped me wrap his gifts while the girls were at Science Olympiad. His gift ended up being a set of rings, necklaces and fancy bobby pins from Gymboree. After looking at it all (x2), he said, "Uhm... Mom? How much did all this cost?"  

(We learned about sales and BOGO's then.)  

He was so proud of his gifts, and they loved them.  

Grace and Lauren were ready for new bicycles this year, and we had shopped the weekend prior to fit them with 22 speed bikes. Because they made such reasonable choices, they were able to have a few extra items, too, such as books, clothes, pajamas, lotion and a few other favorites.  

And this little guy got a few things, too, just for being such an awesome brother.  

Lauren, Grace, we really enjoyed celebrating your eleventh birthday, and are so incredibly thankful you were born.  

We love you to pieces!

Lindsey-Lindsey 2017-2018

We are so proud of these ladies for throwing their hats into the ring for school president. Although there is stiff competition (with each other and some really awesome classmates), the world will be a better place when more good people serve. #internationaldayofthegirl #DayOfTheGirl #fingerscrossed #LindseyLindseyTicket

[Although I am soooo behind on photos, posts and all things computer/device-related, I had to pop on to post the above announcement. Running for president is out of Lauren and Grace's comfort zone, but they are determined. We couldn't be prouder of them, as well as so many of their fellow students who are equally interested. Never, ever doubt the next generation.]

Grace & Lauren's Birthday Dinner

Last weekend we kicked off birthday week for Lauren and Grace. I worked all day Friday on cakes (making one for Gracie; ordering one for Lauren, per their specific requests) and decorations.  

Lauren's favorite coconut

Gracie's favorite... a William Sonoma specialty, although the ganache was a little thicker than usual...  although  not quite as aesthetically pleasing, way more YUM.  

 How is it possible they are eleven? 

We celebrated with Grammie, Gran and Poppa and cousin Lexie. Skip grilled some delicious hamburgers, after which we sang and had cake.  

Also, there were presents... lots and lots of presents. Special thanks to everyone for their generosity. 

Even the Bears take birthday weekend very seriously.

We had a great time celebrating these amazing girls, and yes, they are continuing to celebrate all week! 

Grace and Lauren are 11

Today Grace and Lauren celebrate their eleventh birthdays, and we are incredibly proud of them and could not possibly love them more. While we prepare to celebrate with a favorite meal and cake, here is a peak at birthdays throughout the years. 

Birth

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Seven

Eight

Nine

Ten

Eleven