Elaine’s Sixth Birthday

Today is Elaine’s sixth birthday.  We are in the middle of a mission’s conference in Huntsville, AL.  One of the difficult things about being on deputation is not being able to have family celebrations the way we normally would at home.  But, it also affords us the opportunity to do and see new things that otherwise we wouldn’t be able to do.

I’m also thankful for new friends who help us celebrate.  This morning Elaine came upstairs to pink balloons on her chair at breakfast and a birthday banner.  Then we had lunch with the Calvary Baptist Academy students and teachers.  Elaine was surprised when they brought her a chocolate frosted donut with six candles in it!  She enjoyed eating lunch with new friends and joining them for recess.

Of course, there were donuts for everyone!

When we returned home to our hostess’ house, Elaine discovered a beautiful chocolate cake which Mrs. Coronado had made for her.  We had a mini-celebration with some gifts, and the promise of more to come with Grandma Godby’s package tonight, and a cake at Grandma Hamilton’s house next week.

Birthday girl and gifts

The fam – Henry, Libs, Daddy, Elaine, Noley, Nehemiah

Pigtail hairbows from Nehemiah

Pigtail hairbows from Liberty

Leggings from Nolan

When we went shopping together for Elaine’s birthday, Nolan picked out his own birthday card for her.  He wrote his name in it by himself!

Daddy gave Elaine a special grown-up girl gift – a locket!

Daddy’s Girl!

Later Elaine will learn that there is a bike on the way.  The grandparents are giving her money to pick out a real bicycle (as opposed to the tiny tricycle she still tries to ride!).  We look forward to shopping for it next week, and being “home” the following week to enjoy it before deputation picks back up!