Lily’s Seventh Birthday

Well, we already know it was a pretty stinky birthday, but I am going to document anyway.  Not long after we woke up, I got a text that there was a surprise for Lily at the door.  Porter brought her present over to her early hoping to cheer her up.  She then opened up presents from Mimi, Papa, Doncie, and Poppy.

And that was about she all she had in her, then it was back to the couch for a nap. 

Is there anything more pitiful than blowing out a candle in a yogurt?
This was when I finally felt hope that she was getting better.  She sat up for a little while that evening doodling in her new doodle book that Porter had given her. 
After missing four days of school, she returned Friday.  I took donuts up to her class during lunch to celebrate her birthday.  You know a kid feels pretty darn rotten when they can’t finish a chocolate and sprinkle covered Krispy Kreme donut!
Lily Bean, I am sorry your birthday was pretty stinky.  You are an amazing little seven year old and bring so much joy to us.  You have lost so many teeth and have the cutest toothless smile that I love.  Your favorite food is my chicken pot pie along with oysters, fruit, and Chick-fil-A.  You now eat an entire 12 count nugget meal at Chick-fil-A.  I am thrilled to report that you LOVE to read.  You stay up too late every night reading.  Your favorite books are a fairy series, Magic Tree House, and Ramona.  You are starting The Boxcar Children.  You also read your devotional every night without fail.  You love history too and have enjoyed reading books about historical figures such as George Washington, Sacajawea, Helen Keller and Abraham Lincoln. 
As smart as you are, school just isn’t your thing.  I think first grade has been a big adjustment.  There is so much to learn that there just isn’t enough time to play like in kindergarten.  You love your teacher, but don’t really love school.  The hardest part for you (and me) is that you have to wake up way before you are ready to in the morning.  Girl, I’m going to tell it like it is: you are not a morning person!  You are pretty miserable and don’t mind letting everyone know about it.  We are working on this and I can only keep my fingers crossed for second grade. 
You still want to be a vet when you grow up.  I’m not really sure what your favorite shows are.  You enjoy The Electric Company, Franklin, Arthur and several others.  You are now adamantly opposed to anything Dora, as that is “for babies.”  We have to be careful on the movies we watch with you.  Your tender heart can only handle so much emotion so we steer clear of anything with a sad storyline.  You tear up if I even mention Charlotte’s Web. 
You still take Lovey with you everywhere you go.  He can leave your room now that you don’t suck your thumb anymore.  You are also smitten with Cuddles – a ratty old lion or bear or dog that used to be mine growing up.  You enjoy legos, crafts, riding your bike, and playing with your sister. 
You are a sweet girl with a loving and kind heart.  Mommy and Daddy love you so very much!