Rachel Turns 8

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I am speechless.  Today my little Rachel turned 8 years old.  Look at her.  I mean really, she is just gorgeous.  I couldn't be prouder to have such a fabulous daughter.  Nate and I were talking the other night about how much she has grown up over the last couple of years.  It's like they hit a whole new phase of life at 8 years old.  For her birthday she got to pick out a new bike.  She has never had a brand new bike.  Just D.I or her brother's bike, so it was a lot of fun for her.  

 

I have such fond memories of Rachel birth.  After being somewhat traumatized by a c-section and NICU when Ben was born, Rachel's birth was nothing short of miraculous and peaceful.  I went VBAC and everything went perfectly.  There were no complications and I simply got to enjoy every minute.  It really was a wonderful day..and night.  She was born just after midnight.  She was so beautiful.  

 

Ben was Rachel's immediate best friend.  He took care of her like she was his most prized toy.  The smile rarely left his  face when he was with her.  

 

After failing on a birthday party for Ben, I had to step it up and get something together for Rachel.  I am not a party planner but we came up with a plan and made it happen.  Now, in my brilliance and because I still felt guilty about not planning a birthday party for Ben, I suggested that Nate and Ben have a boys night out while I took care of Rachel's party.  Let me tell you how that went...I will never, never do a party alone again.  Those kids were so full of energy I thought they might explode.  :) The picture below says it all.  Really, they were tons of fun and Rachel had such a great time.  It was worth the sacrifice.   We painted little animals, played games, ate pizza, opened presents and had ice cream and cake.  At 8pm all the kids left and I thought to myself...wow, my house, with all it's hustle and bustle, is actually pretty quiet.  Seven 8 year old kiddos can really ramp up the volume.  Poor Sarah.  She was terrified.  :)  However, I am pretty sure we will be known as the party house from now on.  :)

 

Well, 2 fall birthdays down.  One more to go.  :) Let's hope 5 year olds are a little less energetic.  HAHA.