Saturday: Matt's 21st birthday was actually yesterday, but family celebrated it with him today over at my house at 3:00 in the afternoon. I wasn't sure what to make for dinner because ... it's difficult to find something that everyone enjoys eating. Anyway, I made a bunch of food, and everyone ate what they wanted. It worked out fine--everyone seemed to get enough to eat.
I walked around taking pics with my phone. It isn't often that all four of these siblings are at the same place together, and I NEEDED to take as many pictures as possible. I promise I was not obnoxious!
Look at Kaity! Last week, she watched a short video about cutting her hair and ... she cut it! Look how pretty it looks.
After dinner, we had Matt open his gifts. I made him a card and gave him cash. Christopher gave Matt a football card of Matthew Stafford! It's a card Chris has had for a very long time. I know ZERO about sports' cards, so I have no idea of its value--but Matt was super pleased to have it gifted to him. Emma brought Matt two loaves of Pepperidge Farm Cinnamon bread (without raisins!); plus, she baked chocolate banana chocolate chip cupcakes, as well as chocolate strawberry ones. They were very delicious. How kind of Emma to bake something so yummy for this party.
When I asked Matt what his favorite cake was, he responded that he really doesn't eat sweets anymore. I suggested a cheese cake, but Matt responded that it really didn't matter to him. Hmm. I ended up making one of those no-bake cheese cakes that are super soft and delicious. I liked it (but there was no possibility that I wouldn't) and ate way too much of it!
We sang "Happy Birthday" and then cut the "cake" and ate it. Matt did not take a piece. Shucks. I thought perhaps he might taste a little bite--but no. He remained true to his word on the whole cake thing.
After cake, we decided to play a few games. I was so happy when Dakota decided to stay for game time tonight, as well as Jesse!! All of us just enjoyed the fun of playing games. This game everyone is playing is called: "Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza!" I was cleaning up in the kitchen, so I didn't play it; but I observed and cracked up watching everyone. It's a screaming, slapping kind of game and very fun.
Look how relaxed and happy Kota looks!
It sure was fun to watch everyone laughing together. That's what families ought to do!
And some of the facial expressions ... !!!
We also played "Blank Slate", all eight of us. It's a good conversational kind of game. After we were finished with games, everyone decided it was time to go home. I packed up leftover food for everyone (mostly Chris !!) and then everyone was on their way.
It was good to have everyone here tonight. Families can be really difficult to navigate around. I hope we can find a way to continue to connect with each other as the years go by--so many changes will happen, and it's not always possible to stay close, even in location. Plus, there is a lot of hurt in this family and my heart is sad about that. Help us, Lord, to forgive each other where it is possible and to love each other as You desire us to.
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