It happened. She finally turned 14. I know you’ve been paying attention through the years and this zealous anticipation of each birthday is nothing new. (I know that tomorrow we will start talking about her 15th birthday.) But this year was extra special. Not only did she get to host her first “Teen Friend Movie Night”, but…she got…her very…own…phone. [GASP!]
We landed on 14 as the magic phone age and Layna was absolutely not about to be an exception to the rule. Truth be told, if I could have avoided it I would have preferred to have her wait a few more years. Luckily, I’m not the only parent who wants to lock down their kids phone to within an inch of functionality. It’s actually really easy. Plus I have a computer guy who can manage her new device. Her laptop has been an adventure and I have no doubt the phone will be an even bigger one.

Her actual day was filled with lots of errands (orthodontist, car wash, lunch at McDonald’s) and ended with a present from her favorite teacher: her own alcohol markers and a homemade coloring book. Chef’s Kiss.

This is not my first shot at a How to Train Your Dragon themed cake. It is a far superior offering and I finally have redemption after that awful fondant Hiccup. Again, I did have the plague as an excuse, but I’m so happy with how this one turned out. Edible markers on icing paper made the eyes turn out exactly how I wanted them to be. It tasted good too as a bonus.

The party was everything she wanted it to be. Friends, pizza, movie, cake and presents. Perfection.

After a nice, dragged out birthday week…she got family presents. And that meant her phone. Sigh.

Quick update on the birthday girl: School is great (and being home with me half day has made all the difference), independent reading is one the horizon, and her speech has improved so much strangers don’t need me to translate quite so much. Kitty wrangling and squealing “Romance!!!” anytime Neil and I hug or kiss are her favorite pastimes. Small wins are adding up to a big life in a pint sized body. We love this girl and are so grateful she chose us.