Nine! Nine Years!

I recently figured that it has been more time since I left college than it will be until Olivia goes to college.  Seriously.  She's nine--halfway done with her life at home.  Give me just a minute . . . . 

If I think about that too much, I can't handle it.  Since this was an odd birthday, she was granted a "friend" party, and given Olivia's proclivities, we invited eight of her closest friends to a Creative Party.  (With a capital C and P, of course.) 

Each of the girls made their own apron, beaded their own bracelet, decorated their own little cake. . . 

. . . some with more frosting and candy than others . . . 

 . . . and generally, were the best and most fun group of girls I've associated with.  (I didn't post the pictures of the other participants, since I didn't know how their parents would feel about it.)
Mimi had saved a special book to give to Olivia for her birthday.  Her other friends treated her to all the things she loves:  art supplies, chocolate, games, and more art supplies.She couldn't have been happier.   

 And just for a look back to last week nine years ago:

 And eight years ago:

 And six years ago:

 And four years ago:

Luckily for us, she just keeps getting better--more fun, more helpful, smarter, and happier.  I love you, Liv!