HAPPY 9th BIRTHDAY, ELYSE!!!!!

The birthday girl! She had it all planned. The chair had a sign on it that read "Seat for Birthday Girl." She planned her outfit and her hairstyle. She MUST be related to Emily.

When we left church, we told the kids we had a surprise for them. When we got home, we let Elyse in the house first. She went upstairs to the kitchen - no surprise there. Dad had already been to our bedroom, and there was no surprise there. Suddenly, the phone rang. It was for Elyse. Elyse told whoever was on the phone that she was looking for her surprise. So, the person on the phone told her to look on the front porch. When Elyse opened the door, there was Betsey talking to Elyse on her cell phone. Elyse and Zachary were so surprised and excited. What a birthday gift (I know the rest of you couldn't make it and we completely understand, we will see the rest of you on Thursday).

After the shock wore off, we headed to the dinner table. For dinner we had Bulgogi, Apple Juice, Eggnog, Smoothies and Fried Ice Cream. Sounds like a fat overload to me. We also sent brownies to Sunday School because her birthday actually fell on a Sunday. So, she definitely had more sugar today than in her entire lifetime.

Then it was gift opening time. We gave her the "Bridge to Terabithia" DVD and the playdoh machine that makes ice cream cones (just like we gave Grace for her birthday).

Here is Zachary and Elyse making ice cream cones. Betsey helped some too.

Betsey decided that Elyse was now old enough to take care of a nice doll. So, she gave Elyse her Magic Attic Club doll name Megan. Elyse was thrilled. Poor Megan has had her hair brushed several times and her clothes changed at least twice. She will never look the same (the doll that is).

We put the candle on her fried ice cream. She blew out the candle in one swoop.

The rest of us enjoying our ice cream (Betsey was the photographer).

Proof that Betsey was here. Dad was showing her a funny video on his laptop. Betsey had several to show us as well. It was good to see her - it has been a long time since she was home. She is the first of our children to see our new carpet downstairs. Come on kids, keep up!

We enjoyed our day completely. Can't wait until Thursday when we will all be together and eating alot more than we need or want. Such good times! Loveyoubye!!!!!