The Birthday Girl

Ella's birthday sneaks up on me. Every. Single. Year.  In late summer it's time to start school, then it's time to think about fall break, then we'd better hurry and get Halloween costumes done!  Whew... then, with Halloween under our belts, I remember - Ella's birthday is in ONE WEEK!  And I start scrambling.  I've gotten really good at NOT trying to throw massive "pinterest parties" because ain't nobody got time for that.  This year we found the perfect Ella-approved alternative...
Climbing Wall Party!!  The local recreation center has a building called the Fieldhouse, which is where Ella plays volleyball during rec season.  We always pass a giant climbing wall to go to volleyball, and Ella mentioned several times how fun it looked.  So, guess what?  They do climbing wall birthdays!  Where employees help belay the kids and let them climb around for an hour, then they even provide a giant ice cream cake and paper goods to eat it with.  Best idea ever.

 There's Ella!  Managing the under hang!

 

 Queen of the Mountain!

Giant Ice Cream cake anyone?

 Happy Birthday to Ella!  These were friends from Orchard Options.

  10 years old and loving it!

Opening Gifts

 So excited! It's a Dala horse!

 And roller blades!

 Testing them out in the kitchen

Yep, that is a no bake cookie with a match stuck in it.  Don't judge. ;)  She got the giant ice cream cake at the party remember?!

Ella is a delightful 10 year old, always thinking of others and trying to make people feel happy.  She loves gymnastics, volleyball, piano, climbing things, walking Gordo, taking care of McKinley, skiing fast down the hill, and creating things - cards, posters, drawing, crafts, gifts, jewelry, you name it.  She often does her best to make others feel included and takes care not to hurt feelings.  We love having this little peacemaker in our family!