Fourteenth Birthday

Another birthday down for this sweet girl.  Fourteen years ago she came to us as an early Christmas present. (She was only three weeks early after four weeks of bed rest - she's always kept us on our toes, this girl!! )

Grandma and Ellea made a yummy "cookies and cream" cake (just mix 15 crushed Oreos into a white cake, and 15 more Oreos in the frosting, in case you're interested!)

As an aside - I took a bunch of pictures of Ellea with her cake and candles and could not figure out what the weird reflections by her face were..... ghosts or a weird smudge on my camera lens?  No.  She was wearing a dress with sequins on it and they were reflecting the candle light.  Just thought you might like to know.  My house is not haunted.  At least, not in this picture!

She's so beautiful.  I wish she'd quit getting so grown up, though!!

Made her open this box last.....

She had asked for a laptop, and was surprised that we actually got her one!

So exciting!

Took a quick phone break to receive Happy Birthday wishes from her favorite Auntie Barbara....

And then back to breaking open that computer!!



Happy birthday, dear Ellea.  I love you so very much.  I am so blessed that God placed you in my life.  I love your compassion and fierce loyalty, your happy smile and your mischievous grin!  You are so smart and sweet and funny and fun to be with.  Thank you for trying to keep us organized and the house clean!  God bless you always.

With Much Love, Mom