NINE!!!

I was quite worried about how SC's birthday might turn out. She was very upset about Chancho not being there and worried about what we would do since I had been so sick and incapable. Luckily I mustered a good deal of energy that day and she had a very nice day.

SC wanted my Mexican rice, beans, and tortillas, so that was an expensive and fairly easy meal to make. In the morning she went to school but I picked her up early to go pick up her retainer

from the orthodontist (she had her braces removed 4 weeks ago, but, as you know, I have not done any postings). We then went to the store where she chose cookies to take back to her class for her birthday treat and a cake and icecream for that evening. I let her wear her retainer to school, even though she only needs to wear it at night. It made her feel very grown up and

special. For dinner, we invited my sister Nancy and her five kids over. SC loves these cousins,

especially Daisy, who is her same age, and with me, Nancy, my parents, and the 9 kids, we had quite a good little party. We ate, SC blew out the candles on her cake, we opened presents and played with her cousins.

After everybody was gone and things were cleaned up, SC gave me a hug and said, "Even though Dad wasn't here, this was one of my best birthdays ever!" ::whew:: I felt very blessed to hear that from my baby girl because I really hoped and prayed it would feel special for her.

One special surprise that happened later is that she knew a special card was coming in the mail from Chancho. She received it the day after her birthday and was nearly in shock as she shouted, "Dad sent me TWENTY FREAKIN' BUCKS!!!" Even I was impressed.

Happy Birthday, my first baby girl. I'll love you forever.