elsah's birthday party

madelyn and i ran errands all morning (including picking up a birthday present) before grabbing a quick lunch at home and heading over to 'pump it up' for elsah's birthday party. elsah is a classmate of madelyn's and madelyn was really looking forward to the party. first she likes elsah, but second because mason has been to two parties at 'pump it up' and madelyn really, really wanted to check it out. she had so much fun!

i don't think the girl stopped smiling the whole time. it was partly because she was having so much fun and partly because she had me all to herself. she asked me to stay for the party and she would not do anything unless i was watching or holding her hand. when she went through the obstacle course inflatable, she would reach over the side and hug me after each obstacle. and not just the first time she went through it - every time. and when her friend wanted to play air hockey, she said that she really wanted to play with me. i explained that she and i could play another time since i am with her more than her friend and she agreed to play with her friend instead.

i suggested this picture for nana since it was a purple horse.

the 'hurricane' room

madelyn, elsah (the birthday girl), sarah, kylan and kylie (in back) - all classmates

the funniest part was how quiet the kids were during pizza, cake and presents. the were all so worn out that they were mostly staring off. all of the parents were commenting on how odd it was to have so many in the same room and not have any of them talking.

another nice party. i am starting to get to know the kids in her class and the parents a little better too. it occurred to me that, as long as we don't move, there is a really good chance she will be with most of these kids through high school (there is only one in our district). most of the people who live here, grew up here and went to that high school themselves (and their parents too). it is just that kind of community. that is part of why we like it and part of why it is a little harder to get to know people.

she has another one if a few weeks. it makes me feel a little bad about our plans not to have a party this year... but not that bad. love.