Happy Birthday Elliana!

Oh, my goodness. Another year older. I was only half joking when I teased Elliana in the weeks leading up to her birthday that I wasn't ready for her to use two hands to show her age. I mean, seriously, two hands! A whole hand no longer was enough to show how hold she is?! Randomly, Elliana would flash up six little fingers and giggle with delight knowing how I felt about adding a hand to the mix.

I am constantly amazed at the beauty and intelligence of this little girl. In fact, here it is 2:00 am following a full day of birthday celebrations, and my mind is racing with gratitude, eager to capture it all before any details slip my mind.

We began our birthday celebrations at Busken Bakery, where they just happened to have pink iced donuts with purple sprinkles! Matching her birthday outfit! What are the chances?! :) Then off to the Disney Store to look around and the girls enjoyed coloring while watching Frozen on the big screen.

Then we ventured to an annual birthday tradition. BOWLING! Maya was into it for about 10 minutes, before she declared she was done, but I was able to snap this cute photo of sisters sharing the love after Maya bowled. This photo tugs at my heart strings, as it truly embodies their love. Elliana, has such a big heart for her little sister and I love when she naturally encourages and cheers Maya on. This photo was one of those moments...pure, unprompted, spontaneous love. Elliana, that is you! 

We took a brief nap (well, the birthday girl rocked out a great nap,  while Maya kept the rest of us awake) and then continued on with another birthday tradition. Shopping at Toys R Us with her birthday coupon. Making a selection took a bit longer than we had thought, and the more I think of it, I'm rather grateful that Elliana took so long to make a selection. She showed discipline, thoughtfulness and responsibility by comparing costs, evaluating options, etc. I'm pretty sure most new six-year olds don't think through such things. :)

 Happy Birthday sweet girl! Today and many more to come!! I am honored and blessed to be your momma!