The Birthday Girl

I have noticed that when Danelle has a birthday, it seems to go on all week. This year was no different. Starting Sunday when she got sang to in Primary, and dotted throughout the week with Preschool, Ballet class, and everything we did on her actual birthday Wednesday. Even today (Friday) a friend brought over a cake and some cupcakes to celebrate. For Ellie, it comes as one of the best weeks of the year.

This year for her birthday we went to her favorite outdoors activity to the Thanksgiving Point Farm. Ellie has always had a "closeness" with animals, and loves to pet, feed, and talk with the animals. As part of the ticket, you get to ride one of the horses and Ellie is truly in her element at that moment. You can see the happiness shining from her as she circles around on the horses. Ellie loves the farm, and it has become a fun tradition to take her on her birthday each year.

Following the farm, we went to the Build a Bear Workshop in the University Mall. She had received a gift card and it was fun to see Ellie making her new friend. They were out of unicorns, so she went with the next best thing; a zebra. Picking a heart, making a wish (for a pogo stick), and rubbing it on her nose for good luck were taken with much seriousness. Finally, putting on a Little Mermaid outfit (complete with wig) we were on our way. "Stripes" loves his new Mommy.

Later in the evening, Danelle opened her Hungry Hungry Hippo's game and while I was at work, Shayne and she played the game well into the night, which for her is 10:00 pm. Ellie looks forward to using her new fishing pole and tackle box, and hopes to earn some money to put in her horse purse. She also got a color wonder coloring book that we both love. Of course, she has her party (shared with her Daddy) scheduled for May 17th, so we know that we have more to look forward to on the birthday front.

It was a fun day! We got many birthday wishes, and want to thank everyone for making her special day so wonderful! We love you. We're looking forward to May 17 when we can celebrate her birthday with a party and some friends and family.