Thursday, November 15, 2012

Claire's 11th Birthday!

Wow! I thought 10 was a big deal, but 11, that's crazy!!

When Claire was born I started praying for strength
to raise her to be brave, and faithful, and kind, and loving.
I prayed that she would withstand the preteen and teenage years
and all the girl drama that comes with it.  
I prayed that she would experience life to the fullest, without
the hard knock lessons so many of us have to face.
I prayed that she'd grow up to challenge evil and make a 
difference in this world.
I still pray all those prayers today.  And, I pray for peace
and patience and the strength to get out of the way, 
because God is on the move with this girl and I am 
so darn proud of her!!

Claire is truly a kind girl.  She cares about others, has
a great sense of humor and some really amazing talents.
She is a great friend, a good sister, and a wonderful daughter.
We love you so much, Claire.  Happy Birthday!

This year to celebrate her birthday, Claire decided to have a
slightly bigger party.  And I decided not to have a sleepover!
I think they both went well! :)

We had a great group of girls join us for a movie, ice cream
and mall scavenger hunt.  I had a great time putting together
the scavenger hunt and was very grateful to have a couple
of moms help me pull it off.  I think everyone had fun
and Claire enjoyed her special day!

We were let into the movie early and the manager served
everyone their popcorn and pop.  We all felt quite special!

To pass the time before the movie we played some charades.

Some of us are more dramatic than others! :)

After the scavenger hunt, we met back at Coldstone for
ice cream and presents ~

This is a great group of girls!

Claire had an extra special birthday treat this year.
Aunt Jackie was in town and brought everyone, except me!,
tshirts from LA.  What a great birthday treat!