Friends moving on

 We found out after mass that a sweet Ecuadorian family we met several years ago will be moving way up north in a couple of months. A sweet friend decided to get a photo of all of us together.

Cecilia moments

 Cecilia is always asking to paint these days. Today she decided to wear Gloria's wrangler boots (which were laying on the floor nearby!) so I snagged a pic of my painting cowgirl.

She goes hard all day long, and apparently really wore herself out today, as she dozed off for a few minutes after dinner.

Gloria's birthday party

 After missing out last year due to covid, she wanted a big party this year. We opted for skating (again!), and they had a Friday 9pm-12am slot that was just perfect for some teen fun. It was a great group, and I think they all had a good time.

Happy 14th Birthday, Gloria!

 We enjoyed celebrating a quiet day with her. She was able to sleep in due to being relieved of her Thursday morning babysitting job. She opened gifts, went to lunch with Austin and enjoyed breakfast for dinner (just like Anastasia a few days before!) complete with jalapeno poppers.

Gloria is a sweet girl with a love for small people that reminds me of myself at her age. We are so thankful for her!

Anastasia's Party

 As a 10 year old she was allowed to have a party at a place this year, and she chose ice skating. She and her friends had lots of fun, especially since it was not at all crowded.

This girl was a trooper for her first time on the ice!

My energetic helper wanted to light her own candles.

Happy 10th Birthday, Anastasia!

Our sweet girl is in double digits now (which earns her a later bedtime, much to Cecilia's chagrin as she likes going to bed at the same time as her roommate)!

Then...

Now

We had a nice day with our 10 year old girl opening gifts, enjoying time together and a nice big breakfast for dinner (Austin actually made his special ribs for Sunday dinner yesterday in honor of her and Stephen!). She is so helpful and energetic, just a treasure to our family!