The Birthday Girl

As Jason and I woke the children for school yesterday, we were reminiscing with our dear daughter that it was 8 years ago to the hour that we were staring into the eyes of our newborn child during those first precious moments of life outside of the womb.  You see, our delightful Jenna decided to surprise us nearly 4 weeks before her due date.  It was a pleasant and much appreciated surprise as she arrived with a quick, relatively easy delivery and also spared me from four more weeks of pregnancy in North Carolina summer heat! 

Now I sit and contemplate how on earth I have an 8 year old daughter!  Time is passing quickly, and Jason and I are constantly trying to remember to treasure these days and pour our hearts and lives into these special blessings. 

Our precious Jenna is such a blessing.  She is affectionate, tender hearted, a true artist and always willing to lend a hand.  She desires above all else to enjoy quality time with her parents and she brings such joy to our family. 

For her birthday this year, we celebrated with a tea party.  It was amazing to see how God has blessed her with an abundance of friendships over the last 12 months.  On her birthday last year, we struggled to invite only 3 or 4 friends who she hardly knew.  Now, she is blessed with so many sweet natured friends who she has truly bonded with. 

We started the party with a few crafts adn then the girls enjoyed a lively game of charades.

They were all eager to sit down to tea and cupcakes. 

Jenna enjoyed reading cards and opening gifts from her dear friends.  We are thankful for another year with our thoughtful daughter, to watch her grow and share our lives together.