Lydia's 10th birthday!

Lydia is my only American-born baby.  And she's back in the land of her birth to celebrate a full decade (we were also here in North Dakota for her 3rd birthday!).

She woke up to a house full of brothers (always!) and her cousin Kaelynn too.  We did a few presents that morning, but decided to save the rest for the next day lunch celebration (when Julianna, and Grandma and Grandpa would join us).

A breakfast date with Daddy, and taco-lunch were her meal picks :)

She and Kaelynn baked a beautiful tie-dye cake (after I showed them a youtube how-to video) - the girls had such fun and the cake was gorgeous.  These three ladies are just a treat to have around!

Another family birthday pic -

and a few presents to enjoy!

We said goodbye to Kaelynn Wednesday afternoon (but not before we made a quick stop at the bowling alley!)

and Thursday morning Lydia and I set out on a little mom-daughter adventure.  I did this with Julianna when she turned 10, and we headed deep into downtown of our multi-million person city for a night away.  Here was pretty much the exact opposite :)

We had a blast at Maple Lake and Lydia beat me at most every single game we played. argh.  She has a sharp analytical mind and loves logic games, and she's not afraid to win either.

So thankful for this precious daughter of ours!  And so glad to set aside some special times to celebrate hitting double digits!