Elise Turns 11

In keeping with our Jakarta tradition, we went ice skating with the Prendergast family for Elise's birthday. It was also a monumental occasion because it was CJ's first time to try ice skating. Madi and I took turns helping CJ skate around the rink. She did pretty good for a first time. She tried to keep her "crazy feet" under control.

 

Here, Elise and her friend, Grace, get ready to skate.

Elise at eleven:

You are getting so grown up. You like clothes, earrings, and music. You invited mostly older girls from the neighborhood to your "Spa" birthday party because you're used to playing with older girls (thanks to having Madi as your big sister).

You have a tender heart. You cry when you hear about people or animals getting hurt (you even cried when Dad killed the rat in the outside garbage can!) 

You are my go-to helper girl. If I want something done well, you are the person I ask. 

I love when you help me in the kitchen cooking and baking. And I love when you decide to help pick up the house just because.

 Sometimes when I look at you, I remember holding you as an infant. You came to this earth with a peaceful, calm spirit. And you have magnified that talent as a peacemaker.

You and Madi have become very close this year. Many nights I can hear you whispering and giggling in your room. Often Dad has to encourage you to "stop talking and go to sleep." But it makes my mom-heart so happy to know you and Madi are good friends.

This year has had its challenges especially with friends at school. I have watched you make good choices, even when it was hard, and seen you choose kindness and forgiveness, even when it wasn't reciprocal. This is what makes you so beautiful to me. 

Happy Birthday my sweet girl.