She's 8

My first born child turned eight this week. As it always seems to go with time, it feels longer and yet so much shorter. Eight sounds so old. Older people have eight year olds, right? But I can barely remember life without her.

The day started with donuts and a few small gifts. Her big gift she got early - a chinchilla. His name is "Happy" because thats how he makes Charis feel. 
After school we had a simple party at the park. With cookies, juice, oranges and chips. It was fun to mix our new school friends with our homeschooling friends. Everyone seemed to have a great time.

Charis is going to Paxton's school now. She chose to switch after feeling pretty frustrated at the other school. It's turned out to be a great decision. She loves the new school and has made some adorable friends already. 

There was a lot of balloon blowing and launching until they all got stuck in the trees or popped.

Of course no party is complete without some spontaneous yoga.

Charis' teacher was able to stop by the party for a little while. It was so cute to see the kids attack her and want to hug her and be with her after spending the past 6 hours with her. I think she might be a pretty good teacher.

Here is some of the gang. I didn't get a group picture before eveyone left. But aren't they cute?!

Speaking of cute...

After the party we went to Chile's for dinner and dessert - molten lava chocolate cake. A favorite amoung our kiddos. Here's the evidence.

Here is me and my girl. My hair is pink right now. More pink than I planned, but it's fun. And while I'm on the topic of fun, this girl is so fun. A never ending force of ideas, energy and movement. I love it. I love her. I'm so thankful I've gotten to spend life with her these past eight years.