1101

11 years old, another birthday, they seem to roll around super fast these... years.  The 10th , the 9th , the 8th, the 7th, the 6th , the 5th and 4th.   All those years on this blog, 8 years of birthdays, that's one of the things that makes it worth coming back to this space, if only irregularly these days.

The effort of getting her what she asks for, which is never too much, is worth it for the absolute pleasure she can't hide when it appears on the birthday morning.

So pretty and poised, every year growing more so as she grows into herself with confidence and grace.

Her dearest friends, so special every one of them and so important to her.  Girls I've watched grow up from kindergarten alongside Ella.  This year I noticed their conversation was turning a little, talk of boys, not emotionally but they were in the conversation, a subtle shift.  Mostly it was how stupid they were, but they were still given air time.  I can't imagine a time when these girls won't be friends, but who knows what the future will hold.

My oh my, so grateful for you Ella.  You came out midway through your party to me prepping something in the kitchen, looking a little sad and forlorn.  When I asked what was wrong you said you felt you were neglecting me, that you weren't paying me enough attention or including me enough.  Darling girl, so kind, always.  I am so lucky to wake up to you every day and go to sleep knowing you're safe in your room, that's everything I ever dreamt of and so much more.