Yesterday, officially my baby turned 8. Today, for the first time ever, we were able to have a “real” birthday party. With balloons and friends and, yummy cake. And, more friends. Did I mention there were friends?
We planned this birthday to be special. And, was it. We had seven of her girlfriends from school join us at the local bowling alley. Amanda, Kaitlyn, and Ethan (my Godson 
) plus the adults, and we had a great showing! We were there for three hours, and the kids got to play about two rounds of bowling, have a bunch of pizza, pop and cake.
Amanda received lots of wonderful presents – there was a tie dye kit, a bead making set (with TONS of beads), a couple barbies… but you know what the best one was, in my opinion? The handmade card from a little girl.
We’ve tried to teach our kids that its the small things that matter. That, even when the chips are down, you still go beyond yourself to show someone you care. It doesn’t matter if a toy is bought, or a card is made. It isn’t about the “thing”, it is about what is behind the “thing”.
I’m sure this family didn’t have the money to buy what some would consider a real gift. Heck, we’ve been there before. But, to take the time to craft something with your hands, and take the time to come to the party at all. That shows love.
Amanda is such a joy to us – compassionate, loving, stubborn, fun, intelligent. We love her to bits.
It was a wonderful time. And, I’m exhausted.
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