Seven

Seven years ago, after spending an extra week in-utero, this big squeezable baby graced our lives. She is always proud to report that "I was mom's biggest baby". And she was. Nine pounds and ten ounces. Now she is even bigger: in grade one, making her own lunch, and playing (very proudly) on an organized soccer team for the very first time. And her mom is attempting to coach her!

Her wishes for today: a sprinkle doughnut for breakfast (check), leaving school early (check) and a quick supper of hot dogs (we're gourmet here) then off to a soccer game.

Love you, M-cat. Happy Birthday.

God made me do it!

This evening, I took the kids down to the schoolyard to play. M-cat, especially, wanted to have some time to practice biking without training wheels.
M-cat: Mom, I want to bike fast, but God keeps making me put my feet down.
Me: God is making you?
M-cat: Well, maybe it's my body, or maybe it's God.

Hello, six!

Today, our M-cat turned six. She was my biggest baby, almost ten pounds, and she was in no hurry to arrive. And today is her day, which she has been looking forward to for an awfully long time. And here is our day, in photos:

Breakfast in bed (sticky bun, hot cocoa, watermelon) Note to self: put towel on bed before serving six year old sticky crumby things

Friend party! M-cat chose an animal theme. This is her own version of "What time is it Mister Wolf?" (and doesn't our new sod look lush?)

 A blushing birthday girl

 Do it yourself cupcakes with the sibs

 Crazy pose: Maybe baking chocolate cupcakes with coffee wasn't the greatest idea...

New rollerblades!

 Getting some pointers from a big sister

 While big brother plays with our kid-made ropes course

We love you, M-cat. You have brought much joy into our lives these past six years!

Buttercup fairy

Ever seen one? I have. And let me tell you, they are super cute and especially fond of puddles.