Taylor's party

Taylor had her birthday celebration today. It didn't go entirely as she wanted, but her failure to complete chores resulted in Dad and Mama having to hold firm on their threat, "if you don't, then you won't." Well, she didn't, so we couldn't.

Basically, Taylor did without inviting her friends over for her birthday, but the family and family friends came over. The girls had a great time with Samantha's niece and nephew, and she did get presents, so it was a good birthday to her.

There are still 4 days before Taylor will officially turn 13.  Holy cow! I will have a teenager!! When did this happen?? Isn't she still a tiny baby that I'm worried will not survive?? Once again, here is what Taylor did to me when she was born.

And here she is today:

Who would have thought she would come so far? She's so bright, compassionate, caring, and intelligent. She loves to make everyone comfortable in a room and to entertain. It's hard for her to be in the awkward stage, but it's been great fun for Ken and I to watch her go through it - it's more material for us to poke fun at her.

Taylor did well in the gift department: a beautiful necklace with a T and some gems and lots of money. 

She's looking forward to her actual birthday when we will go out to eat at the location of her choice and have it all be about her. I'm sure she'll be able to go use some of that money before it burns a hole in her pocket.