Alexis' 12th Birthday

I was a bit of a failure this year for Alexis' birthday party pictures.  This is the only one I got.  I can't believe it.    

 This year Alexis begged me to have a sleepover.  It's really not something I wanted to do but she begged long and hard enough so I relented.  I usually have an elaborate theme and lots of games and preparation but with a sleepover Alexis just wanted a few games (that she planned) and then a movie before bed. She also wanted an ice cream cake from Dairy Queen.  Those of you that know me well know that I love to make fun, special birthday cakes and parties.  So this was quite a change for me.  This is perhaps why I forgot to take pictures.  It was such a low key party.  I at least got to make best dinner---ziti, homemade rolls, and broccoli.  Alexis said she had a great time and that is all that really matters to me.  The girls played spoons, a memory game, "do you love me," and Kinect.  Then they watched Corpse Bride and slept in the guest bedroom on our many beds.  I think they actually slept for 7 hours too.  Not bad for a sleepover.  In the morning we had monkey bread for breakfast and the girls left around 11am.  

Alexis has really blossomed this year.  I was so worried about her starting 6th grade but it has been the easiest school year ever.  She has made so many new friends, gotten excellent grades, joined Cross Country and Track, and has gained enormous confidence in herself.  She has loved going to school and has only missed one day of school.  Her drawing and piano skills are improving all the time.  She also has a remarkable attitude about responsibility.  She gets all her homework done without being reminded to and has been prepared for every test.  At the beginning of this year she finished her goal of reading the Book of Mormon every day in the year 2011.  She made that goal on her own and finished it on her own. Not once did I have to remind her to read.  She is very self motivated.  Something I still struggle with!  I love my girl!  She is amazing!