Happy Birthday, Bella!

It is hard to believe that my Isabella is now eight years old. For eight years I have been on this motherhood journey, and it has been incredible. (I've also been changing diapers for eight solid years, but I digress.) I am so blessed to be on this journey.... thank you, Lord! 

On Bella's birthday, we were able to have our friends over for the day as their house was being packed up by the movers. The kids brought out the butcher paper and had a fun time creating 'menus' for their various 'cafés'. The littlest boys, Will and his buddy Colter, were too busy playing with trains and such to care about the coloring. 

Jacob was hard at work and concentrating a lot! This can be serious work, you know.

For present opening time, we got to Skype with Daddy all the way from Macedonia. At his new location, his reception is only clear outside:

Bella was super excited to receive her new doll, which she renamed Emily. We let the girls pick out one nice gift for each birthday, and this year Bella chose a new doll. She has since been playing with Emily nonstop - taking her everywhere she goes.

Sweet Adeline:

Addie wrapped up a bag full of 'presents' for Bella, but they were actually just a bunch of various toys from their room.

Because of Memorial Day, Jake couldn't get flowers delivered on Bella's birthday... but these came the following day:

She was very happy with her beautiful flowers!

It was a very fun and full day! Happy Birthday, Bella!