TEN!!!

Our Violet Mae has hit the double digits!

Of course it's incredible to think a whole decade has passed since our sweet, artistic, dragon-loving affectionate girl entered the world. We're well into a new phase of family life, with a teenager and the "baby" turning 10.

Ten, being such a milestone, was supposed to bring with it a party with friends and long-awaited visit from Nan and Pop. But, the coronavirus lockdown nixed those plans.

Violet was a bit sad heading up to her birthday, but we made the best of it, allowing her to plan some fun things, and surprising her with some other treats. One plan - she asked for a pineapple-upside down cake, something my grandma used to make, and it turned out beautifully.

She also asked for crepes for breakfast, Stacey's specialty, and since he was working from home, he was happy to oblige. We also spent two nights sleeping in the tent in the back yard.

After breakfast, we video-chatted with Nan and Pop and Dean and Jen, and Vi opened her gifts and cards. Here, she's opening her silly presents from her sister.

But then came the good gift! Violet had just one wish, a drawing tablet. The whole family went in on it, and she was absolutely thrilled. Here, she's showing it to our family in the UK.

Then, Vi went in to take part in a video chat with her class, and everyone sang her "Happy Birthday." I'm so glad she had that moment, because it was one of the things she had been sad about missing out on.

The birthday girl gets to choose meals all day long - we enjoyed Chick-Fil-A for lunch, and homemade orange chicken for dinner.

In and around doing school work, Cora and Violet had a silly string battle in the back yard, using one of Cora's gifts to Vi.

And then - surprise! Vi's best school friend Victoria stopped by with a card and gift. Vic gave Violet a special necklace, and has a similar one for herself, so it's kind of like a friendship necklace.

And, surprise! Liana and Colleen also stopped over, with a gift and home-baked goods. It's so good to see our friends! We will appreciate that so much more when this corona storm has passed by.

Chocolate cranberry bars and lemon scones - hope Violet will share! They were absolutely delicious. Liana is taking after her mom with baking talent!

Then, just before dinner, we jumped back online for a group birthday song via Zoom. This was such a fun way to include our loved ones who don't live close enough to come to a party anyway; maybe we can retain this Coronavirus trend in years to come.

Violet loved all her cards - Alli's included a confetti bomb!

S'mores before bed and a night in the tent - despite the worldwide pandemic, it was a good birthday for Violet!