My Girl

Rounding the corner on a run this morning, the perfect title begins on my ipod, “My Girl.” What a blessing (and trial at times) the past eight years have been training up Madison in the way she should go, according to how God created her personality. She is becoming quite the beautiful young lady that remains true to her compassionate demeanor. Celebrating her birthday this year was a moment when my cup truly runneth over! We have been struggling, missing Montana, but when family showed up at the birthday party, we were reminded of the biggest blessing of Minnesota.

She was able to experience the best of both world: friends and family. She invited 5 friends and the Kracht cousins, grandparents and even grandma great got to come for the day. The party got an early start when Grandma Barb and Grandpa Verlyn were able to come up a day early and treat the girls to Red Robin and an evening a fun games (while mom and dad were treated to date night!) What a treat for all of us. Madison is still a HUGE grandma's girl. She just loves her grandmas!

After church, we got the "Olive Garden" lunch ready. As Madison requested Mac & Cheese Casserole for her birthday lunch, we tried to create the meal around that. She may have never lived on a farm, but she truly is a meat-loving farm kind of girl! We were pleasantly surprised at how mellow the girls were around the table during lunch. Madison now pretty much plans the entire party, mom simply does logistics. She chose to plant seeds,

make flower hair clips

 and candy necklaces. 

They squeezed in a little free-play after the presents and cake.

 Madison, Breanne & Ellie

 Madison & Carli

 Uncle Lucas & Chloe

 Madison & Caitlyn

 Silly group picture

 The icing on top of everything was the big surprise. We bought the girls a piano and with the strong help of Lucas and the grandpas, we were able to get it delivered. We're trying not to argue and patiently wait our turn to play these days. It's fun to try sing along while mom and dad get the rust out of our playing skills. Yesterday, the girls and I played duets during their lessons.

 The moment was priceless while Grandma Great played "Jesus Loves Me" and all the kids sang along.

 Madison & Grandma Great

 Grandpa Leon, Madison & Grandma Linda

 The 8-year old cousins: Braelyn & Madison

Grandma Barb, Madison & Grandpa Verlyn

Keep your eyes peeled to see a new post Madison is working on following her Poetry Cafe at school.