My girl has turned 12 yesterday! Happy Birthday to my best friend, my sweetheart Nadia! She is awesome and funny, smart and beautiful. I am so happy she is my first-born. I'd be lost in this world without her and with all our boys.
At our Church, 12th birthday is a big deal. 12-yr-olds graduate from Primary and join the Youth programs. One of them is a Young Women's Organization for girls 12 through 18. So, introducing you a brand new Young Woman. She is beyond excited to finally be with the girls her size. Primary felt too dull a place for a smart cookie like Nadia.
Now, let's get the party started! There were times when I was a serious party freak. Not any more. "Simple" is my goal in life these days. So, here is what we came up with 2 days before the party. A simple fold-up invite without any scrapbooking bling or stickers. Ironically, I even ran out of color ink. A picture of math equations from internet is on the front page along with Nadia's own formula for a happy 12th Birthday Party. I thought it was perfect for her gifted and talented classmates.
Inside, on top was the info about the party. And the bottom half had Nadia's great idea of collecting donation items for a local charity instead of presents.
Oops! "Thanks you" was an accident. Late night, frazzled brain..
Between making a cake, cleaning the basement, and breastfeeding, my only decoration item was this garland. I made those flowers out of old plastic table cover and sewed up a big button in the middle. I think they are cute. Not quiet Pinterest worthy, but hey, try making them 15 minutes before the party with the fussy baby by your side.
And here is our crowd. It was so much easier to admit to the girls that we could use some help setting up the table, or holding the baby, in other words, free myself from the super-mama complex. I did not have any games, or activities, or crafts planned. But I think they were completely content watching the Life of Pi and socializing. The cute Thompson boys were not formally invited but were a hit (nuisance, occasionally) among the girls. So, yesterday I learned to trust in guests' abilities to entertain themselves.
I am impressed...what a thoughtful & amazing girl to have her friends bring gifts for others! She sure is growing up to be a beautiful young woman.
ReplyDeleteKeri, thank you for stopping by. Yes, I agree, Nadia is definitely the most selfless child I have in my house. She is growing up way too fast though.
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday to Nadia! I'm not surprised she is so amazing, considering whom she has for a mother. Ulya, you need to write a book on motherhood, and I will need to read it. Best wishes to all of you!
ReplyDeleteUmm, if only I knew who KJ is....:) But thank you, I am flattered. There is two of us, Nadia is an awesome mother's helper. AND she is much better at writing, I tell ya. I still need her help sometimes, especially with 'a/an' and 'the'. So, I need much more practice before I write a book. :o)
DeleteI loved seeing Nadia this Summer! She was so helpful with our kids and baby! I wish you lived closer so we could see your kids grow up! I get a kick out of the twins! They grow up entirely too quickly!
ReplyDeleteMary, it was such a joy for Scott and Nadia to catch up with the people in the neighborhood and you guys especially this summer. We love your family so much, and, you know, Scott can't be completely happy without Kyle. It would definitely be so much better to live close to you. Hugs and kisses to all!
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