She's Eight!

Jaicee turned 8 years old on Saturday. She has been looking forward to this birthday for a very long time. She was lucky enough to be able to be baptized on her birthday also, which made the day so very special for her.

The day started with Jaicee extra excited to open her presents. She jumped out of bed and ran downstairs to start the fun. Her favorite present was a school kit that I put together for her. (Thanks to Lisa for the great idea.) Jaicee and Halle play "school" everyday...so to have everything in one box is heavenly to her! She also loved her "littlest pet shop" toys and "webkinz". Jaicee was such a kind sister, and let Braden open many of her presents...because he thinks every day is his birthday!

After opening presents, it was time for the traditional birthday breakfast of pancakes...with a candle in it! The kids look forward to this every year. (Such little things make them happy).





We then headed to the church for her special day. Jaicee was so excited, but also a little nervous. She kept asking her dad to explain exactly what was going to happen.

Jaicee and Brandon just before her baptism. Gotta love the white jumpsuit look!

The whole family

The baptism was beautiful. Jaicee was beaming with excitement afterwards. I loved the pure look of joy on her face, and wish I could bottle that memory up. It is a wonderful moment to see your daughter make a very important choice in their life, such as this.

After the baptism we had a lunch with all of the family, and then we began the birthday celebration. However we couldn't really celebrate until after Kason's soccer game and the youth duck hunt that Brandon took Kason and Braden on.

I know, I don't like the fact that he is holding a shotgun either! He did just pass "hunters safety" if that counts for anything!

Not so sure Braden likes this "hunting thing"

So, by 8:30 pm it was time for the birthday dinner. Jaicee picked Artic Circle. Seriously, out of all of the places she could go - I love that she still wants to go to a place with slides and ice cream!

I love my Jaicee for so many reasons. She is a great big sister, and cares so much for her brothers and sisters. She has a sensitivity for others, loves life, and has a "mothering" capability that not many have. She has a wonderfully free spirit and zest for life.

Jaicee has a sparkle in her eyes that is apparent to everyone around her. I love looking into them...crystal blue, intelligent, and pure. I am so proud of the choice she has made this day. I love you Jaicee with all my heart!