Celebrating a Decade with my Daughter

This week was my oldest child's 10th birthday.

We are into double digits now!

It's crazy to think what another 10 years will bring...

oh, I shouldn't have gone there.  

In another 10 years this girl will be all grown up, and making her way in the world. 

Where did the years go? Seriously. 

She invited a few friends (the same ones that have been coming since her 2nd Birthday party)  for a sleepover.  We had a 1950's / rock 'n roll / sock hop party theme.  It was a bit of history education as well since not one of them even knew who Elvis was. 

Roman skipped the giggle fest and spent the night at Grandma and Grandpa's. Little bro stuck around and even allowed me to grease back his hair.  He refused to wear the white t-shirt that I picked out for him though.  It wasn't as cool as the shirt with the robot.  

It's nice to see his eyes again!  I may have to get this bad boy a hair cut.

He didn't seem to mind being out numbered 5 to 1.  

We did  Diner style food.  Easy peasy

One party game included a slightly scandalous version of Pin the Tail on the Donkey.  They played Kiss the Lipstick on Elvis while being serenaded by "Jail House Rock".  The one who made it closest to the lips won.   Of course they all danced and hula-hooped to some old school rock 'n roll.  

My ears are still ringing with the sound of giggling, shrieking, and singing.  My house smells like a strange mix of lip gloss and arm pits.  

10 year olds are are a fascinating bunch.  It is such an in-between age.  Not quite princess dresses and baby dolls....but not yet make-up and drivers licenses.  A brief moment in the balance between girl and woman.  A glimpse of the years to come while still familiar with the years that have passed.  

I've been a parent for one whole decade!

I feel so blessed.  It seems impossible that this many years have passed since I held my wide eyed, healthy baby girl in my arms.  I will never forget how it felt to leave the hospital with a baby.  Terrifying and victoriously exhilarating all at the same time.  

I am so proud of you Aili.  You are radiant.  Your enthusiasm, beauty, and heart light up our home.